Whether you’re a parent chauffeuring kids to school and soccer practice, or someone constantly on the go with work and appointments, one thing’s for sure: your car can quickly get messy. Don’t worry – you don’t need a full Saturday to get the job done! You can declutter your car in under ten minutes with this quick and easy routine.


Grab Two Bags

One bag is for trash and the other is for take inside items. Toss the receipts, food wrappers, coffee cups and soda cans. Put everything else (shoes, water bottles, toys, notebooks, random pens) into the “take inside” bag. This first step already cuts your clutter in half.

Parent Pro Tip: Hand a bag to your kid and make it a game, who can fill theirs faster?

Clear the Cup Holders and Door Pockets

These are small spots that collect so so much junk. Take 30-60 seconds to get rid of gum and snack wrappers, tissues, and whatever else has made itself at home. A quick wipe with a cleaning or baby wipe will make a big difference too. Want to try to keep the garbage at a minimum? I have this small garbage can in my car!

Shake Out the Floor Mats

Even if you don’t have time to vacuum, a quick shake will remove crumbs, dirt and snack debris. It’s a quick step and somehow very satisfying.

Organize the Essentials

What do you really need in your car?

  • License and registration
  • Sunglasses
  • Phone charger
  • Tissues and/or wipes
  • Reusable grocery bags
  • Hand sanitizer/lotion

Use a small pouch, center console, glovebox, or seatback organizer to keep it all in one place. For parents, consider getting an organizer for the additional essentials: snacks, diapers, baby wipes, or a back up outfit (or two) – this one is one of my favorites to use!

car seat organizer

Final 30 Second Sweep

Take one last glance under the seats, in seat pockets, and the trunk. If you see it and don’t need it – remove it! You’re basically at the finish line!

When your car is organized, your day feels more manageable. Less digging through wrappers to find your keys or apologizing to your passengers for the state of the front seat. It’s quick and easy plus you’ll feel better every time you open the door. Let me know if you have your own tips to declutter your car!

New to the blog? Check out our previous post about decluttering your purse in just ten minutes!

5 Things to Declutter in Less Than 10 Minutes – Part 2: Car

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