Americans spend a lot of time in their cars – commuting for work, shuttling kids to school and sports activities, taking trips, running errands, even driving for pleasure.
It’s no surprise our cars get disorganized!
If you’re wondering what that funny smell is, or you can’t see the floor of your car anymore, maybe it’s time to take action.
Start by removing everything that’s not nailed down. This includes the contents of the trunk, glove box, doors, visors, under the seats, and wherever else you’ve managed to stuff things. But not all at once! Concentrate on one area at a time.
Now, get a trash bag and throw out the junk. Get rid of outdated maps, expired registration receipts, paper wrappers, junk mail, fast food containers…with or without food still inside, and anything else you don’t want or need.
You may find important papers or other items you’ve been searching for. Set them aside so you can sort through them later. Get your kids to go through the toys and other kid-stuff you find.
The car’s interior
Since every vehicle has different built-in storage areas, so you’ll have to decide where to keep the items remaining in the car. Loose change, umbrella, something to write on, a place to hold food and drinks, sun visors, cell phone, and some kind of trash container.
If you’ve got kids, you probably want to keep hand wipes, tissues, sunscreen snacks, travel games, books and other activities to keep them entertained during longer trips.
The glove box, which rarely, if ever contains gloves, is a good place to keep your current car registration, owners manual, and perhaps a tire gauge. You’ll probably have room for a few other items. I keep a travel toothbrush and toothpaste in mine, extra sun glasses, as well as extra straws, plastic cutlery, napkins and other useful items.
The trunk
Some trunk essentials include the spare tire and jack. It’s a good idea to periodically check the air pressure in the spare to be sure it’s usable in case of an emergency. It’s also a good idea to keep a set of jumper cables in case you or a stranded motorist needs a boost. Consider keeping a basic tool set, first aid kit, flashlight, empty gas can, gloves, a jug of water, and a quart of oil on hand as well.
The trunk is also a great place to keep reusable shopping bags. You’re more likely to use them if they’re already in the car. A trunk organizer or foldable crate is a convenient way to hold your groceries or other store purchases for the drive home. If they’re contained, there’s less chance of them rolling to the back where you won’t see them.
Finally, pull out your vacuum cleaner, leather or upholstery cleaner, window washing solution, and rags, and clean the inside of your car. Then make a quick trip to the local car wash for the Platinum car wash! You can’t beat the feeling you’ll get from seeing your car sparkle.
