58 Clever Car Organization Tips + How to Keep Clean

Organizing your car is one thing but keeping it up? That is a whole other job in itself! Not only does this post walk you through easy car organization tips + hacks, but I also share at the end how to actually keep on top of the mess.

Keep reading for 58 clever car organization hacks.

Love traveling? I have two guides I think you’d love! The ultimate road trip with toddlers checklist and your guide to California Adventure with a toddler!

58 Clever Car Organization Ideas

I have to admit, my car ever since having kids is like a second residence on wheels, and oftentimes it is just plain filthy. These tips are how I manage to keep my vehicle looking a little less chaotic and a lot more organized.

Below you will find quite a few tips for getting your car organized. I have included ideas utilizing storage containers, shower caddies, and even a suggestion for organizing your glove box. Let’s get to it!

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  1. The trunk is streamlined with this collapsible organizer. It holds everything from beach toys (backlink?) to groceries and everything in between. Glass bottles don’t fall out or clang around, everything is nicely packed and secure.

  2. Before we had these lil trash cans, trash and wrappers would literally go in cupholders and or the side pockets or floor. Not good. We now have these so that nothing ends up on the floor and can be easily thrown away in one swoop. 

  3. Crumbs. I hate crumbs, but with kids, they are everywhere. This handheld vacuum is a lifesaver and a new hobby of mine if you could qualify it as a hobby. It gets every little crumb in every crevice and it’s quite satisfying. This could also be used for drawers and smaller spaces in the home. 

  4. Hooks have become my favorite purchase this year. They hold Connor’s backpack, my purse, and hats without ever touching the floor. That leaves more room for your feet and that’s simply wonderful. 

  5. Organize the center console with dividers or small storage bins to keep it tidy. This allows for easy access to items like loose change, hand sanitizer, and tissue holders during car rides.

  6. Store extra water bottles and snacks in a dark container to keep them out of the sunlight.

  7. Keep important papers, such as registration documents and insurance papers, along with emergency supplies like a first aid kit, in the glove box for quick access during emergencies.

  8. Utilize back seat storage solutions like shower caddies to store kids' toys, baby wipes, and other essentials, making travel with children more convenient.

  9. Use plastic bags as an easy garbage solution or invest in a small trash can to keep messes contained. They even have cupholder trash cans which are super convenient!

  10. Organize emergency supplies in the trunk or cargo area for easy access via cargo bins.

  11. Secure larger items in the cargo area with a bungee cord to prevent shifting during transit, maximizing space and organization. This is great for sports equipment.

  12. Attach a backseat organizer to kids' car seats for storing snacks, toys, and other items, minimizing clutter and keeping kids entertained during car rides. Get one with a tablet holder for movies on long car rides!

  13. Utilize storage containers or bins in the trunk or cargo area to organize various items such as sports equipment, groceries, or picnic supplies for efficient packing and easy access.

  14. Utilize a car seat organizer to keep essentials like sunglasses, phone chargers, and snacks within easy reach.

  15. Keep a reusable grocery bag in the car to store items like groceries, gym clothes, or beach gear.

  16. Install a car trash bin with a lid to keep garbage contained and odors minimized.

  17. Utilize a car backseat organizer with multiple pockets and compartments to store toys, books, and snacks for kids.

  18. Keep a foldable crate in the trunk to store groceries, sports equipment, or shopping bags.

  19. Install a car visor organizer to store registration papers, insurance cards, and toll passes.

  20. Use a car trunk organizer with adjustable dividers to keep items like tools, jumper cables, and emergency supplies organized.

  21. Keep a microfiber cloth in the glove box for quick cleaning of surfaces, screens, and windows.

  22. Utilize a car seat gap filler with built-in cup holders to prevent small items from falling between seats and provide a convenient spot for drinks.

  23. Install a car backseat organizer with a built-in tablet holder to entertain passengers during long drives.

  24. Use a car visor organizer with a built-in mirror for quick grooming touch-ups on the go.

  25. Keep a collapsible cooler in the trunk for storing drinks, snacks, and perishable items during road trips or grocery runs.

  26. Utilize a car seat cover with built-in storage pockets for holding maps, tissues, and other small items.

  27. Install a car trunk organizer with hook-and-loop fasteners to keep items like grocery bags or sports equipment from sliding around.

  28. Keep a portable power bank in the glove box for charging devices when on the road.

  29. Utilize a car seat gap filler with built-in storage compartments to store sunglasses, coins, and other small items.

  30. Install a car backseat organizer with a built-in trash compartment for easy disposal of garbage.

  31. Use a car visor organizer with a built-in pen holder and notepad for jotting down notes or reminders.

  32. Keep a roll of reusable silicone cable ties in the glove box for organizing charging cables, headphones, and other cords.

  33. Utilize a car trunk organizer with a built-in insulated compartment to keep groceries and drinks cool during hot weather.

  34. Install a car seat cover with a built-in heating function for added comfort during winter months.

  35. Keep a portable car vacuum cleaner in the trunk for quick clean-ups of crumbs, dirt, and pet hair.

  36. Utilize a car seat gap filler with a built-in smartphone mount for hands-free navigation and calls.

  37. Install a car backseat organizer with a built-in fold-down tray for eating or working on the go.

  38. Use a car visor organizer with a built-in card holder to store credit cards, business cards, and parking passes.

  39. Keep a car trash bag dispenser in the glove box for easily replacing trash bags as needed.

  40. Utilize a car trunk organizer with a built-in netted compartment for storing sports balls, water bottles, or umbrellas.

  41. Install a car seat cover with a built-in massage function to relieve tension during long drives.

  42. Keep a portable air compressor in the trunk for inflating tires, sports equipment, or inflatable toys.

  43. Utilize a car seat gap filler with a built-in coin holder to store loose change for tolls or parking meters.

  44. Install a car backseat organizer with a built-in tablet sleeve for watching movies or playing games during road trips.

  45. Use a car visor organizer with a built-in sunglass holder to keep your shades protected and accessible.

  46. Keep a set of reusable grocery bags in the trunk for eco-friendly shopping trips.

  47. Utilize a car trunk organizer with a built-in removable cooler bag for keeping drinks and snacks chilled on the go.

  48. Install a car seat cover with a built-in lumbar support cushion for added comfort during long periods of driving.

  49. Keep a pack of multi-purpose cleaning wipes in the glove box for quick clean-ups of spills and messes.

  50. Utilize a car seat gap filler with a built-in tissue holder for easy access to tissues while driving.

  51. Install a car backseat organizer with a built-in umbrella holder for keeping umbrellas handy during rainy days.

  52. Use a car visor organizer with a built-in mirror and light for applying makeup or checking your appearance.

  53. Keep a small first aid kit in the glove box for treating minor injuries or emergencies.

  54. Utilize a car trunk organizer with a built-in fold-out table for picnics or tailgating.

  55. Install a car seat cover with a built-in pet hammock for keeping pets comfortable and contained during car rides.

  56. Keep a carabiner clip in the glove box for hanging bags, keys, or other items.

  57. Utilize a car trunk organizer with a built-in rechargeable LED flashlight for illuminating dark areas.

  58. Install a car seat cover with a built-in seat belt cutter and window breaker for emergency situations.

How to Keep Your Car Clean

After organizing comes actually sticking to the organization methods, right? 

Here are 10 tips for keeping your car clean that actually work and do not take a whole lot of effort!

  • Use car seat covers to protect your seats from spills and stains. They're easy to clean and can extend the life of your seats.

  • Keep a small trash bag or bin in the car for collecting wrappers, receipts, and other trash. Empty it regularly to prevent clutter from building up. Again, trash bags and the cup holder trash bin will come in handy!

  • Set a regular schedule for car cleaning, whether it's once a week or once a month. This helps prevent dirt and grime from building up and makes cleaning more manageable.

  • Invest in a handheld vacuum or portable car vacuum cleaner to quickly clean up crumbs, dirt, and pet hair from carpets, seats, and crevices.

  • Wipe down surfaces regularly with disinfectant wipes to remove germs, bacteria, and sticky residues.

  • Use floor mats to protect your car's carpet from dirt, mud, and spills. They're easy to remove and clean, preventing permanent stains and odors.

  • Avoid eating or drinking in the car to minimize the risk of spills and crumbs. If you must snack on the go, use spill-proof containers and napkins to catch any mess. Clean up the kid's mess right away!

  • Keep a designated cleaning kit in the trunk with essentials like glass cleaner, upholstery cleaner, microfiber cloths, and air fresheners. This makes keeping up with cleaning even easier.

  • Shake out floor mats and carpets regularly to remove dirt, debris, and pet hair. You can also use a handheld vacuum or brush attachment to thoroughly clean them.

  • Use a car air purifier or odor eliminator to keep the interior smelling fresh and clean. I love Bath and Body Works ones!

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