Americans spend a lot of time in the car - commuting to and from work, shuttling kids to school and sports activities, taking trips, running errands, even driving for pleasure. It's no surprise that our cars become disorganized. So if you're wondering what that funny smell is coming from the back seat or you can't see the floor any longer, 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.
Collapsible Laundry Rack
Get a trash bag and throw out the junk. Toss the outdated maps, expired registration receipts, paper wrappers, junk mail, fast food containers - with or without food still inside, and anything else you don't want or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 and 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.
Next, gather your vacuum cleaner, leather or upholstery cleaner, window washing solution, and rags, and clean your auto inside and out, or make a quick trip to the local car wash. You can't beat the feeling you'll get from seeing your car sparkle.
Now that you're able to start with a clean slate you can selectively return the things you need for your day-to-day travel.
The Car's Interior
Since every vehicle has different built-in storage areas, you'll have to decide what to keep, where. Some items to consider are maps, sunglasses, tapes and CD's, loose change, something to write on, a place to hold food and drinks, sun visors, your cell phone and other essentials.
If you've got kids, you probably keep toys, moist wipes for quick clean ups, snacks, games, movies, books and other items to keep them entertained during long trips. What about Fido? Have you considered a doggie car seat, a harness restraint system, and seat protectors? More on that, later...
The glove box, which rarely if ever contains gloves, is a good place to keep your current car registration, owners manual, map and perhaps a tire gauge. You'll probably have room for a few other items. I keep a travel toothbrush and toothpaste in mine, along with sun glasses, drinking straws, plastic cutlery 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 helpful to keep a set of jumper cables handy in case you or another stranded motorist need a boost.
Consider keeping a basic tool set, first aid kit, flashlight, empty gas can, a jug of water, and a quart of motor oil on hand as well. Of course, there's no substitute for regular auto maintenance but it's nice to have the peace of mind that comes with being prepared.
Beyond storing the basics, the trunk is one of the most useful and versatile areas of the car. It can hold the groceries, or double as a traveling office. When you need to haul large or messy items, the trunk is the answer.
If you're out shopping the trunk will keep your purchases hidden from passing "opportunists" who might be tempted by what they see through your windows.
To keep groceries or small items from sliding around try a collapsible crate or mesh container, which can be compressed and moved out of the way when not in use. One advantage of the crate is its sturdiness and strength when it comes to holding heavier items.
The Mother of Invention
If there's a problem, someone has come up with the solution. I'm talking about gadgets for the car's interior. These include visor organizers, cup holders, sun shades, litter bags, CD organizers, and more.
You may have seen back-seat organizers which contain of a variety of large and small pockets, some see-through mesh, others solid. They generally attach to the headrest using Velcro or adjustable straps that fasten or stabilize them against the backs of seats.
You might also come across some unusual inventions. For instance, a doggie booster seat that allows your small pet to see out the car window. According to the ad, it also helps prevent motions sickness! Maybe you prefer an air purifier which will plug into your car's lighter.
If you travel for work and need a portable office at your fingertips, then check out the mobile office that attaches to the passenger seat. (Search the internet using the phrase "auto mobile office.") But please, please, don't conduct business while you're driving!
For those with neck or back aches look for neck and lumbar support pillows for improved comfort during long drives.
And last but not least, don't forget the outside. Need more room for passengers when vacation travel season begins? Consider a roof mounted cargo carrier. Enjoy bike riding? Attach a rack to the roof or the back of your vehicle and you're all set.
Happy motoring!