Is your car always a disaster zone? Here’s how to take control

As a result of our fast-paced lives, many people’s cars have turned into something like a second home. When you spend that much time in your car, you need a lot of stuff.

A few minutes of cleaning and organizing each day or week will save you time in the long run and help ensure you are not distracted while driving. Here are some ideas.

Clear trash regularly

Make it a habit to take trash from your car into your home every day for disposal, and ask your passengers do the same. Or plan to remove all the trash from your car every time you fill it up with gas. Keep each door’s compartments clear of trash, and remove cans and bottles for recycling.

Get organized

Keep supplies such as hand sanitizer, wipes, pens, pencils, tissues, crayons and activity books in a designated place. Make sure they’re all easily accessible to back-seat passengers so you don’t have to help them find what they need while you’re driving. Overthe-seat organizers work well for kids and can also be easily accessed from the front of the car if necessary.

Compartmentalize the trunk

Keep a few bins in the back to contain objects that are always in your car — items such as reusable shopping totes, a first-aid kit, a blanket, a few water bottles and snacks, and sports equipment.

Clean consistently

Wipe surfaces and vacuum your car regularly. Don’t wait until your car floor is covered in crushed pretzels or smells like a dead animal to clean it. Keep some wipes or a microfiber cloth in your glove box for quick cleanings.