Keeping your car clean and organized can seem like an impossible task, especially if you have a busy lifestyle. However, professional organizers know that with the right tools and systems, it is possible to keep even the messiest car neat and tidy. Here are 9 must-have items that pro organizers recommend to keep your car organized, clean and clutter-free.
1. Car Trash Can
A car trash can is an absolute necessity to contain waste and keep garbage from piling up inside your vehicle. Look for one that is sturdy and leakproof with a lid to prevent odors from escaping and contain the mess. It should be easily accessible from the front seats so the driver and passengers can quickly dispose of wrappers, bottles, and other debris.
The best car trash cans attach securely to the floor or front seat so they don’t tip over and spill. For extra convenience, look for one that has multiple compartments to separately hold recyclables and actual trash. Having a small trash bag handy to quickly empty the can is also useful. A quality car trash can allows you to maintain cleanliness and quickly tidy up your vehicle.
2. Car Organizer/Caddy
A car organizer or caddy helps corral loose items in your car like charging cables, sunglasses, spare change, pens and more. The best organizers have multiple compartments and pockets to hold different sized items in place. Look for one that attaches to the front seat or fits snugly on the console between the front seats.
Quality car organizers are often made of durable materials like heavy duty nylon or neoprene and feature non-slip bottoms so they stay put. The pockets and straps firmly contain objects and prevent them from sliding around while driving. Some even have dedicated spots for tissues, phones, tablets and water bottles within easy reach. Keeping frequently used car items neatly organized reduces clutter and makes cleanups much easier.
3. Backseat Organizer
One of the most effective ways to contain mess in your car is using a backseat organizer. It helps keep the rear tidy by providing designated storage spots for items your kids or passengers may bring into the vehicle.
Look for a quality organizer made of sturdy material with multiple compartments and pockets. It should attach securely to the back of the front seats, often using straps and buckles. The compartments can hold toys, books, electronics, snacks, garbage and anything else your rear passengers may use or carry. This keeps their belongings neatly contained instead of strewn across the seats and floor.
4. Car Garbage Bag
It’s wise to keep a garbage bag on hand in your car at all times. It provides a quick and easy way to collect and contain trash on the go. Any sturdy plastic bag will work, but there are bags made specifically for fitting inside cars with handy features.
Look for one that attaches via straps to the headrest or hook to a corner. Some have odor controlling properties to minimize smells. Car garbage bags add a convenient spot to quickly stash trash and promote cleanliness. It saves you from letting wrappers, bottles or other debris accumulate in the console or on the floor. Empty it out regularly to keep your car fresh and tidy.
5. Wet Wipes or Car Cleaning Spray
Keeping wet wipes or a car cleaning spray readily available allows you to quickly wipe up small spills and messes. For safety, avoid heavily chemical cleaners and opt for a natural, green product. Look for one that cuts through dirt, dust, stains, and fingerprints without harsh fumes.
Store the cleaning wipes or spray along with paper towels or rags within reach of the driver’s seat. When you notice a new spill or dirt buildup, you can immediately wipe it down before it spreads and causes bigger problems. Quick cleanups allow you to maintain your car’s cleanliness between more thorough washings.
6. Window Cleaner
Having a good glass cleaner handy allows you to keep your car’s windows, mirrors and other surfaces sparkling and streak-free. Look for one that safely cuts through dirt, smudges, dust, and grime without harsh chemicals.
Spray the glass cleaner onto a soft cloth or paper towel and wipe the interior windows and mirrors as needed. You can also use it on chrome, plastic and other smooth surfaces to restore shine and cleanliness. Making window cleaner easily accessible promotes quick cleanups anytime you notice dust building up or spots marring visibility.
7. Handheld Vacuum
Vacuuming is one of the best ways to keep your car’s interior tidy between professional cleanings. Handheld vacuums are compact and convenient for quick cleanups anytime, anywhere. Look for one that plugs into your car’s 12v outlet for power.
The best hand vacuums for cars are portable with strong suction for picking up dirt, crumbs, pet hair and other debris. An extended hose or crevice tool allows you to easily reach tight spaces under seats, in footwells and cupholders. Maintaining your car’s cleanliness is much simpler when you can grab a hand vac and suck up messes immediately.
8. Multi-Purpose Cleaning Brush
Having a small cleaning brush on hand is useful for wiping away crumbs, dirt and stuck-on grime in tight spaces a cloth can’t easily reach. Look for a stiff bristled handheld brush that allows you to scrub carpets, floor mats, upholstery and more to dissolve spills and stains.
The best car cleaning brushes feature both soft and stiff bristles for different cleaning needs. Some even convert into a squeegee to wipe down windows. Keep one within reach so you can do spot cleanings anytime messes occur. It helps keep your car fresh between deep cleanings.
9. stain remover wipes
Stain remover wipes are hugely helpful for removing spots and spills from your car’s upholstery. They conveniently allow you to wipe away new stains before they have a chance to set in and spread. Look for wipes that are safe for use on leather, cloth and other delicate car interior fabrics.
The individually wrapped wipes are portable and disposable, making them easy to keep in the glovebox or middle console. When you accidentally spill coffee or food, quickly wipe it up to prevent permanent staining. Keeping them on hand allows you to protect your car’s interior and upholstery.
Keep Your Car Clean with a Regular Routine
By equipping your car with these key items, you’ll be ready to tackle any mess at a moment’s notice. The combination of storage, cleaning tools and convenient bags provides easy systems for both organizing and cleaning. Make quick daily cleanups part of your routine by immediately wiping up spills, sweeping out crumbs and collecting trash.
Take advantage of stoplights or times when you’re parked to vacuum, dust and wipe down surfaces. Follow a regular maintenance schedule by doing thorough cleanings each week and getting professional detailing a few times a year.
Developing consistent habits makes it easier to keep chaos and clutter from taking over your vehicle. With the right tools and dedication, you can enjoy a reliably clean car all year round.
Frequently Asked Questions About Keeping Cars Organized
How often should I vacuum my car?
It’s recommended to vacuum your car interior at least once a week to keep dirt and debris under control. Do spot cleanings even more often by quickly vacuuming up crumbs and messes immediately when they occur. Give high traffic areas like floor mats and seats extra attention.
What’s the best way to clean car carpets?
Use a handheld vacuum weekly to remove surface dirt from carpets. Spot clean stains and spills right away with an upholstery cleaner or stain remover wipe. For deeper cleanings, use a carpet shampoo and scrub with a hand brush before extracting dirty liquid with a wet/dry vac.
How can I keep my car from getting so messy?
The best way is to stay on top of cleaning and decluttering rather than letting messes build up. Bring a trash bag on drives to contain wrappers and debris. Frequently wipe down surfaces that attract dust and Fingerprints. Avoid eating and drinking besides water in the car. Stow supplies in organizers to avoid loose items.
What cleaning products are safe for car interiors?
Avoid harsh chemicals and go for gentle, eco-friendly cleaners. All-purpose cleaners, degreasing sprays, upholstery shampoos, and vacuums work well. Check the ingredients to make sure they are non-toxic for safe use on leather, vinyl, plastic, and fabric car surfaces.
Where should I keep items to organize my car?
Install organizers like caddies, racks, and trays to corral items in the trunk, console, glovebox, and backs of seats. Use car specific storage like under-seat organizers and seatback pouches to minimize loose items. Store cleaning supplies together in a caddy for easy access.
Conclusion
Keeping your vehicle neat and clutter-free may seem daunting, but is easily achievable with the right tools and dedication. Equipping your car with storage solutions, waste containers, cleaning supplies and organizers allows you to stay tidy. Make quick cleanups part of your daily routine and do regular deep cleanings for maintenance. Keeping your car fresh and spotless is satisfying and achievable with simple consistent habits.