Let’s be real—that plastic litter box is totally killing your apartment’s aesthetic. As a fellow cat mom who spent years trying to hide that eyesore behind plants (spoiler: it didn’t work), I finally cracked the code on turning basic IKEA pieces into Instagram-worthy cat furniture. Whether you’re working with a tiny studio or a cozy townhouse, these 10 IKEA hacks will transform your cat’s bathroom situation from “college dorm” to “interior design goals”—all while keeping your wallet happy.
Build a Luxury BRIMNES Cat Litter Room
Say goodbye to litter scattered across your apartment and hello to this genius IKEA BRIMNES hack that’s giving cats their own luxury bathroom suite! This clever DIYer transformed the cabinet with a perfect-fitting boot tray and litter box inside, adding a custom cat entrance with iron-on veneer edging for a sleek look that doesn’t scream “cat bathroom.”
Keep the BRUSALI Litter Cabinet Organized
This stylish IKEA cat litter loo is inspired by Danae from The Homebody House, offering a tasteful way to integrate a litter box into your home decor. Danae originally used an IKEA Brusali cabinet for her project, but since the BRUSALI is no longer available, an IKEA BRIMNES cabinet serves as a perfect alternative due to its similar appearance and functionality.
Convert a BESTA Base Cabinet Into a Litterbox
Nemo1ner, a creative Redditor, shared a brilliant way to transform the IKEA BESTÅ base cabinet into a sleek, functional litter box that’s perfect for small spaces. The larger size of the BESTÅ cabinet offers cats more space than typical store-bought or DIY options, ensuring they can move freely and maintain a natural stance. The enclosed space keeps smells contained, while the high-back litter box minimizes litter tracking.
Repurpose a HOL Side Table for an Elegant Litter Box
Turn a basic IKEA HOL side table into a chic litter box that blends seamlessly with your decor. The HOL table’s wooden design adds warmth to any room, and its open slats provide ventilation—keeping things fresh without revealing what’s inside. This hack is perfect for cat owners who are tired of bulky plastic litter boxes ruining their space.
Turn a BESTA Cabinet into a Kitty Litter Station
The BESTA isn’t just a cabinet; it’s a blank canvas. Its clean lines and customizable features make it ideal for blending into your decor. Plus, its dual-compartment design offers space for a litter box on one side and a dust-catching mat or storage on the other. It’s not just a litter box—it’s a litter station.
Put a Litter Box Inside a Byholma Chest from Ikea
Imagine a woven rattan box that not only hides the litter but also blends seamlessly into your space, doubling as functional furniture. The enclosure feels airy and light, and the top door makes every-other-day cleaning easy. Plus, it’s a customizable project that fits your cat’s needs and your budget.
Turn an IVAR Cabinet Into a Cat Litter Enclosure
A designer-inspired, cat-friendly cabinet that looks anything but utilitarian. This hack not only hides the litter box but also enhances your home’s aesthetic while making cleanup a breeze.
The real magic of this hack is in the details: a pull-out vacuum charging station, 3M hooks for organizing supplies, and a removable magnetic litter-catching bar that lets you slide the box out instead of awkwardly lifting it (because who needs a workout while cleaning the litter box?). Plus, the waterproofed interior means no stress about accidents or spills.
Add Fake Plants to an IKEA Cabinet Litterbox
Turning an IKEA cabinet into a litter box is already a genius move, but adding fake plants takes it to the next level. Not only do they elevate the aesthetic, but they also solve a common challenge: hiding that awkward gap between the cabinet and the wall.
Pro Tips for Maximum Impact
- Choose plants with trailing vines like pothos or ivy (fake, obviously!).
- Mix different lengths and slightly different shades of green for that realistic look.
- Secure plants with command hooks for easy adjustment.
- Add battery-operated motion lights inside (perfect for those 3 AM visits).
- Install a small air filter behind the plants for odor control.
Put the Cat Door on the Top of a METOD Cabinet
Most “hacks” involve cutting a cat door on the side of an IKEA cabinet, but putting it on the top is a game-changer. Why top-entry? As Andrea stated in his IKEA Hackers post, “because Top entry to allow gravity to keep the litter inside!” We couldn’t agree more. Plus, this setup is ideal if you’re aiming for a minimalist look.
Create a Two-storey Cat Litter House with NORNÄS Bookcase
Turn IKEA’s NORNÄS bookcase into a stylish, multi-level cat litter house that’s as functional as it is fabulous. This clever hack keeps litter messes contained and adds a unique touch to your space. Plus, with solar-powered lighting, it’s not just cat-friendly but eco-friendly too!
The NORNÄS bookcase is made from solid pine, giving it a sturdy structure that’s ideal for your feline friend’s daily needs. Its clean, minimalistic design makes it easy to customize, and its size is perfect for turning into a two-storey haven for your cat.
