5 Steps to Declutter Your Vehicle

If you’re like many Americans, you probably spend innumerable hours in your car. All of that time behind the wheel can lead to a messy interior. Clutter in your vehicle is distracting, and it may even cause an accident. Follow these 5 simple steps to declutter your vehicle and keep it that way.1. Throw Out the TrashStart this project by getting rid of all of the garbage under the seats, in the glove compartment, and in the ashtray. Then, make your way to the back seat and trunk, and toss any refuse you find there, as well.2. Seal the Problem Area Up FrontThe space between the front seats and the cup holder can seem like a bottomless abyss. It is very easy to lose items to that abyss, such as money, jewelry, business cards, and your cell phone. Apply a foam seal in those gaps, so they will stop claiming your belongings as their own.3. Clean the InteriorOnce you have eradicated the clutter from your vehicle, clean the interior thoroughly. This will motivate you to keep the environment clean and tidy.4. Decide What StaysAfter your car is clean, you will need to decide which items belong in it. You should store important documents, such as proof of insurance, in the glove box. You need to equip your car with emergency supplies, such as coolant for an overheated engine, water for emergency hydration, and jumper cables.5. Organize the ContentsAs you choose which things belong in your car, use proper storage receptacles to house them. Put important papers in an accordion file in the glove compartment. Use bins from a dollar store to keep all of your supplies organized. Be sure to place a trash bag or miniature plastic trash can in a convenient place, such as behind one of the front seats. Make a habit of always emptying the trash receptacle before it is overflowing.At this point, you should have a neat, clean vehicle that makes you feel comfortable. Resolve to keep it decluttered by repeating the above steps weekly or as needed.