How to Conquer Car Clutter in 8 Easy Steps
By Jacquie Ross
We are spending more time on the road than ever and it's taking a toll on the interior of our cars. Commuting, carpooling and running errands are resulting in a cluttered mess of random toys, water bottles, small electronics, clothing and stuff! What's a busy executive and soccer mom to do? Learn eight easy steps to conquer the clutter in your car, SUV, truck or van:
1. Declutter the trunk. Use a study container with a secure lid to store emergency supplies, including a small first aid kit, maps, window wash, small plastic bags and an umbrella.
2. Secure and organize your important documents: Having your registration document readily available will save embarrassment if you're ever pulled over by the police. Simply pick up a document holder or small wallet to store this important document and it will be quickly retrieved without a hitch!
3. Be ready for trash: Carry empty grocery bags in your vehicle at all times to discard your trash. You can store the bags in a door or seat pocket, if available, and encourage your passengers to take their trash with them every time they leave the vehicle.
4. Organize your front seat clutter: Use a front seat organizer designed to store a variety of items that may be needed while on the road. You can store your CDs, DVDs, pens, sunglasses, maps, and cell phones, while eliminating the worry of items flying off the seat at the slightest bump! Front seat organizers can also be used in the back seat for your children to store their small toys, gadgets and other supplies.
5. Organize your back seat passengers: If your vehicle is not equipped with built-in organizers on rear of the driver's and front passenger's seats, pick up a mobile organizer with pockets to store cups, small toys, CDs and more. Many space saving vehicle organizers can be secured to the rear of the driver's or passenger's seat for easy access by back seat passengers.
6. Run your portable office more efficiently while on the road: Mobile travel organizers are perfect for the busy executive. These organizers are designed to store a laptop computer, files and other needed office supplies while working on the road.
7. Always be ready to store more stuff! Keep one or two collapsible crates available in the trunk or cargo area to hold shopping purchases, library books and dry cleaning. Collapsible crates fold flat when not in use and pop up when required in just a few seconds!
8. Declutter when you fill up: Keep your vehicle clutter-free by removing all trash during every visit to the gas station.
By making a few simple changes and incorporating a little maintenance into your routine, you can enjoy a clutter-free and organized car, resulting in a stress-free ride!
About the Author:
Jacquie Ross is a Maryland based Professional Organizer, writer, speaker and owner of CastAway the Clutter! A member of the National Association of Professional Organizers, she shows homeowners how to reclaim their time and space. To receive a free Organizing Goals worksheet to help you take back control of your clutter, visit CastAway the Clutter to sign up for her free organizing tips at Cast Away the Clutter!
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