Your car is often an extension of your home, especially if you're constantly on the go (am I right mums?). Whether you're commuting to work, running errands, or shuttling kids around, it's easy for your vehicle to become cluttered and chaotic. A messy car not only looks bad, it can also create stress and even become a safety hazard. Fortunately, with a few smart organising strategies, you can transform your car into a tidy, efficient and calm space.

Declutter Regularly

The first step to an organised car is removing what doesn’t belong. Set aside a time, either weekly or bi-weekly to clean out unnecessary items that have accumulated, such as food wrappers, old receipts, and random knick-knacks. Keep a small trash bag in your car to easily toss out garbage on the go. Don’t forget to check under seats, in door pockets, and the boot, which often become catch-all spots for clutter.

Make it a habit to take any personal items, shopping bags, or trash with you every time you exit the car. This simple routine prevents clutter from building up. Encourage the kids to be responsible for their belongings, you can even add a plastic bag (or a used grocery bag) in the back for them to use during long drives.

Use Organisers and Storage Solutions

There are plenty of car-specific organisers available that can help keep things tidy and accessible. Here are a few effective options:

  • Back Seat Organisers: These hang behind the front seats and offer multiple compartments for storing everything from tablets and toys to water bottles and snacks. They’re especially useful for parents who need to keep kids’ items easily accessible.
  • Boot Organisers: A collapsible boot organiser can keep groceries, emergency supplies, and sports gear neatly contained. Many come with compartments to help you separate different categories of items.
  • Centre Console Dividers: If your centre console is a dumping ground for random items, consider using a divider or small tray to separate essentials like sunglasses, pens, and chargers.

Create a Trash Disposal System

Nothing makes a car feel messier than trash scattered everywhere. To keep your vehicle clean, invest in a dedicated car trash can. These come in various sizes and can be hung from the back of a seat, placed on the floor, or attached to a door. Choose one with a lid to contain odours and prevent spillage.

Designate Zones for Frequently Used Items

To avoid rummaging around your car when you need something, designate specific areas for frequently used items. For example:

  • Glove Compartment: Use this space for essential documents like your registration, insurance papers, and vehicle manual. You can also keep a small first aid kit, tissues, or a flashlight here.
  • Centre Console: This can be your tech hub, storing phone chargers, cords, and other small electronics.
  • Door Pockets: Use these for things like water bottles, sunglasses, or hand sanitiser for quick access.

Corral Loose Items

Loose items like pens, coins, or lip balm can quickly become scattered around the car. Keep them contained using small containers or pouches that fit into your cup holders, glove box, or centre console. Velcro strips or adhesive organisers can also keep things like your phone or keys in place while driving.

Minimise What You Keep in Your Car

It’s tempting to treat your car like a storage unit, but the more you keep inside, the harder it is to stay organised. Make it a goal to only store the necessities in your vehicle, such as:

  • Emergency supplies (jumper cables, flashlight, basic tools)
  • First aid kit
  • Small cleaning supplies (wipes or microfibre cloths)
  • Phone chargers or a spare battery pack
  • A small bag with essentials for kids (if applicable)

If you regularly carry groceries or sporting equipment, keep these items in a collapsible storage bin in the boot. When you don’t need them, fold the bin up and free up space.

Keep a Cleaning Kit Handy

To maintain a tidy car, it's essential to keep basic cleaning supplies on hand. A small kit with items like microfibre cloths, cleaning wipes, and a handheld vacuum can help you quickly address messes before they get out of control.

Establish a Routine

Staying organised is much easier when it’s part of your routine. Take a few minutes at the end of each day or week to tidy up your car. Remove unnecessary items, wipe down surfaces, and reorganise any loose items. This regular maintenance will prevent clutter from accumulating and make your car feel more inviting.

Keeping your car organised doesn’t have to be a time-consuming task. With a few simple strategies and a commitment to regular maintenance, you can turn your vehicle into a neat, functional space that makes driving more pleasant. By using storage solutions, designating zones, and limiting what you store, you can create a clutter-free environment that stays organised even on your busiest days.