10 Space-Saving Litter Box Setups for Apartment Dwellers

Finding the right litter box setups for apartment living can feel like solving a puzzle. You need a spot that’s private, odor-controlled, and easy to clean — all without taking over your space. Whether you live in a studio, a loft, or a cozy one-bedroom with a cat roommate, these creative litter box solutions blend seamlessly into small apartments while keeping everyone happy (and everything fresh).

1. Hidden Litter Box Furniture

Benches, end tables, or cabinets with built-in litter boxes let you disguise the setup entirely. Many have ventilation panels and pull-out trays for easy cleaning. Ideal for entryways or bedrooms where space is limited but style still matters.

2. Under-Sink or Bathroom Setups

Tuck a compact litter box under the bathroom sink or in a corner behind the toilet. It’s easy to clean, naturally ventilated, and keeps litter in a room that’s already tile-floored and moisture-friendly.

3. Inside a Closet or Utility Nook

Have a linen closet, laundry nook, or storage cubby? Install a small pet door or leave it cracked open to house the litter box out of sight. Just add an odor absorber or ventilation fan for airflow.

4. Covered Litter Box on a Balcony

If your apartment has a secure balcony, a weatherproof covered litter box can live outside. Be sure it’s shaded, protected from rain, and checked often in hot or cold weather. Great for odor control and freeing up indoor space.

5. Inside an IKEA Hack Cabinet

DIY lovers swear by repurposing IKEA cabinets like the Besta or Kallax. Cut a cat-sized hole in the side and insert the litter box inside. You’ll gain a clean look, a surface for storage, and a clever hideaway in one.

6. Corner or Triangular Boxes

Tight on square footage? Try a corner-shaped litter box. These are perfect for fitting into unused bathroom or bedroom corners without taking up prime real estate.

7. Litter Box Behind a Curtain or Room Divider

Use a tension rod and curtain, folding screen, or bookshelf to block the view of the litter box while still allowing access. It’s a budget-friendly way to add visual separation in an open floor plan.

8. Under a Floating Shelf or Desk

If your desk, shelf, or TV stand has enough space underneath, that void can house a small litter setup with a mat and odor filter. It keeps the box accessible but visually tucked away.

9. Portable Litter Box with High Sides

If your cat is a kicker or sprayer, a high-sided or top-entry box can keep litter and messes contained without requiring extra floor space. Some models are collapsible or easy to stash during guests.

10. Litter Robot or Automatic Box in Plain Sight

If you’re short on hidden storage but want maximum odor control, go for a self-cleaning box. Many are sleek enough to leave out in the open and neutralize smells better than traditional setups.

With a little creativity, you can design litter box setups for apartment living that blend into your home, reduce mess, and make daily cat care easier. Whether you DIY or buy pre-built, the right location and box style make all the difference in small-space harmony.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where should I put a litter box in a small apartment?

Bathrooms, closets, under desks, and hidden furniture pieces are all great options. Look for low-traffic, ventilated spots with some privacy.

How many litter boxes do I need in a small space?

The rule is one per cat, plus one extra. In tight spaces, try odor-controlled or top-entry models to keep things discreet and contained.

How do I reduce litter box odor in an apartment?

Scoop daily, use clumping litter, add baking soda or charcoal filters, and clean the box fully each week. A litter mat can also reduce tracked debris.

Can I put a litter box on a balcony?

Yes — if it’s fully covered, out of the weather, and safe from falling hazards. Check with your building’s pet rules first.

How often should I clean the litter box in an apartment?

Scoop daily, deep-clean weekly, and replace the litter box every 6–12 months to avoid odor buildup and bacteria growth. This VCA guide has more tips.