Scooping the litter tray is a daily job, and a good scoop makes it quicker and cleaner. The best scoops are strong enough to lift heavy clumps, have slots that let clean litter fall back through and have a comfortable handle that keeps your hand away from the tray.
We have compared five litter scoops currently available on Amazon UK, including metal, stainless steel and plastic options. We explain who each is best for, what we like and what to watch out for.
Quick Comparison Table
Product | Best For | Price Range | Rating |
WePet Metal Cat Litter Scoop | Best-reviewed metal scoop | £6-£8 | 4.8/5 |
Litter Lifter Sifting Scoop | Well-known and sturdy | £11-£14 | 4.7/5 |
BasicForm Metal Cat Litter Scoop | Multi-cat homes | £11-£13 | 4.7/5 |
Amazon Basics Litter Scoop with Holder | Cheap and tidy | £4-£6 | 4.6/5 |
Stainless Steel Litter Scoop (Mesh) | Long-lasting steel | £6-£8 | 4.7/5 |
The Best Cat Litter Scoops Reviewed
WePet Cat Litter Scoop (Aluminium Alloy, Deep Shovel)
Best for: the best-reviewed metal scoop, at a very low price
A good litter scoop makes a daily chore quick. The WePet scoop is a metal scoop made from aluminium alloy, with a deep shovel and fast-sifting holes. It is strong enough to lift clumps without bending, and light enough to use every day.
The deep shape scoops up more litter at once, and the long handle keeps your hand away from the tray. It works well with clumping litter, and it is easy to wash.
It costs around £7 and averages 4.8 out of 5 across more than 17,000 ratings, an outstanding record.
What we like:
- Strong metal build
- Fast sifting
- Excellent reviews
Worth knowing:
- May bend under very heavy use
- Not dishwasher safe
Specifications:
- Type: metal litter scoop
- Material: aluminium alloy
- Feature: deep shovel, long handle
- Brand: WePet
Litter Lifter Sifting Scoop
Best for: a well-known sifting scoop
The Litter Lifter is a familiar name in scoops. It has a sturdy design with a comfortable handle, and the sifting slots let clean litter fall through as you lift the clumps.
It is a good choice if you use clumping litter, and it is durable and easy to clean.
It costs around £12 and averages 4.7 out of 5 across more than 2,600 ratings.
What we like:
- Sturdy build
- Comfortable handle
- Strong reviews
Worth knowing:
- More expensive than basic scoops
- Plain design
Specifications:
- Type: sifting litter scoop
- Feature: comfortable handle
- Best for: clumping litter
- Brand: Litter Lifter
BasicForm Metal Cat Litter Scoop
Best for: a deep metal scoop with a comfy handle
BasicForm’s scoop is a fast-sifting metal scoop with a deep shovel and a comfortable handle. It is robust and easy to use, and it is a good choice for owners with several cats.
The handle is shaped to reduce strain during scooping, and the metal is strong enough for heavy clumps.
It costs around £12 and averages 4.7 out of 5 across more than 3,600 ratings.
What we like:
- Deep shovel
- Comfortable handle
- Well reviewed
Worth knowing:
- Pricier than the WePet
- Metal can scratch some trays
Specifications:
- Type: metal litter scoop
- Feature: fast-sifting, deep shovel
- Best for: multi-cat homes
- Brand: BasicForm
Amazon Basics Litter Scoop with Holder
Best for: a cheap scoop with a holder for tidy storage
This Amazon Basics scoop comes with a holder that clips to the side of the tray or hangs on a hook, so the scoop is always to hand. It is a plastic scoop with sifting slots.
It is not as tough as metal, but it is lightweight and easy to clean, and it is a good choice for a cheap, tidy setup.
It costs around £5 and averages 4.6 out of 5 across almost 5,900 ratings.
What we like:
- Includes a holder
- Very cheap
- Light and easy to clean
Worth knowing:
- Plastic, so less durable
- Not ideal for heavy clumps
Specifications:
- Type: plastic litter scoop with holder
- Feature: sifting slots
- Use: everyday scooping
- Brand: Amazon Basics
Stainless Steel Cat Litter Scoop (Medium, Mesh)
Best for: a stainless steel scoop with a mesh sifter
This stainless steel scoop has a sturdy mesh sifter and a medium shovel, which is a good size for most trays. Stainless steel is easy to clean and does not hold smells.
It is a strong scoop that does not bend, and it has a comfortable handle. It is a good choice if you want something that will last.
It costs around £7 and averages 4.7 out of 5 across more than 1,400 ratings.
What we like:
- Stainless steel
- Easy to clean
- Good reviews
Worth knowing:
- Not the deepest shovel
- Unbranded
Specifications:
- Type: stainless steel litter scoop
- Feature: mesh sifter
- Size: medium
- Best for: everyday use
Cat Litter Scoop Buying Guide
What to look for when buying a cat litter scoop
Choose a scoop that is sturdy and does not bend, with a sifting surface that is the right size for your litter. A deep shovel lifts more litter, and a comfortable, long handle makes scooping easier.
Metal scoops are more durable than plastic. Check how easy the scoop is to clean, since litter and waste can stick.
Cat litter scoop types explained
Metal scoops are the strongest and last the longest. Plastic scoops are cheap and light. Some scoops come with a holder, and some have an enclosed sifter that reduces dust. Deep shovels are best for clumping litter.
For most owners, a metal scoop is the best choice.
Matching the scoop to your litter
Clumping litter needs a scoop with slots that match the size of the granules. Fine litter needs smaller slots, and coarse litter needs larger ones. Silica and crystal litter work with a fine-slotted scoop.
If you use a very fine litter, choose a scoop with small holes.
How much should you spend?
A good scoop costs £5 to £12. There is little to gain by spending more, since a sturdy metal scoop at £7 will last for years.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best material for a litter scoop?
Metal, such as aluminium or stainless steel, is the strongest and longest-lasting. Plastic is cheaper, but it can bend or crack with heavy use.
How often should I scoop the litter tray?
At least once a day, and twice if you have several cats. Regular scooping keeps the tray fresh and encourages your cat to use it.
How do I clean a litter scoop?
Wash it with warm, soapy water, and rinse well. Let it dry before storing, and clean it regularly.
Can I use a scoop with non-clumping litter?
Yes, but it works best with clumping litter. With non-clumping litter, you will need to scoop out solid waste and change the litter regularly.
Where should I keep the scoop?
Keep it in a holder or a small bag near the tray, so that it is easy to reach and stays clean.
Conclusion
For most owners, the WePet metal scoop is the best choice, with an outstanding record and a very low price. The BasicForm and Litter Lifter scoops are good, sturdier options, and the stainless steel scoop is a good long-lasting alternative.
If you like a tidy setup, the Amazon Basics scoop with a holder is a cheap, neat option. Whichever you pick, scoop daily and your cat will thank you.
