How to Use Cat Litter to Absorb Gasoline Spills

Gasoline is a flammable substance that fuels combustible engines. The substance also stains concrete, painted and stained surfaces as well as fabric and other surfaces. When spills occur, it is important to act fast to keep the gasoline from penetrating into the surface and from igniting. One way to absorb the fuel is with cat litte, which isn't flammable and also absorbs the odor present in gasoline. Cat litter is available at retail, grocery, hardware and home improvement stores.

Things You'll Need

  • Cat litter
  • Latex or work gloves
  • Broom
  • Dust pan
  • Trash bag
  • Twist tie or string
  • Face mask
  • Sprinkle cat litter generously over the entire gasoline spill. Wear latex or work gloves to keep your hands clean, and a face mask to protect your airways from the benzene in gasoline and the cat litter dust.

  • Let the litter sit on the spill for 4 to 5 minutes to absorb the gasoline. Sweep the cat litter onto a dust pan then pour the collected litter into a trash bag.

  • Continue sweeping the litter and pouring it into the trash bag. Tie the trash bag closed using a twist-tie or string. Dispose of the bag in your home's covered outdoor trash can.