We all were once that person swearing our cars would never be that messy. We never forgot to throw out our trash or take in our coffee cup. A quick car wash & a regular wipe. Spin-‘n-span!
Then, you have kids and like popup twister, it feels like the Tasmanian devil itself tore through. Where did all the crumbs come from, anyway? And why are there so many toys, shreds of papers and a random left shoe?
We know that a clean car makes for a happier life, so here’s a few of our favorites things that help corral the car chaos.
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Invest in a Car Trash Can (Because, Wrappers Everywhere)
Let’s start with the obvious. There’s something about a car ride that makes kids want to eat every snack they’ve ever owned. Which is fine... until you find granola bar wrappers shoved into the seat pockets weeks later. Enter the car trash can. I cannot recommend this enough, even though they seem tiny and not useful. Teach the kids to take care of themself, and you won’t regret it.
Front Seat Options
Cup holder trash cans might cost you a cherished spot for yet another cup, but I love them nonetheless. I mostly stash mine away in the side door cup holder but it comes out for road trips.
This is my absolute favorite and what we have in our car. It’s made of silicone, which I love for flexibility and for cleanup. Personally I love the flip top, but these are also good if you’re into the push top (which I worry my kiddos would break). Here’s a few other colors as well.
If you’re not willing to give up a cupholder, try these side pocket versions out. Here’s another option. It’s hard to find one of these that has really high reviews, mostly because many are disappointed in the size. But personally, I love this for the side door pocket and use it personally all the time. Perfect for snack and gum wrappers, and used napkins.
Back Seat Options (for self sufficient kiddos!)
There’s many options for this so don’t feel like you have to buy something special if you want to be budget-friendly. A simple plastic bag or a small dollar store trash can, plus some discipline, is all you really need.
That said, we recently upgraded to this version so it could be right within arm’s length of the kiddos. Here’s the one we choose, which was highly reviewed.
In hindsight, I wish I had chosen one like this that also had a dispenser for wipes, which would have helped us even more on the go.
This one is leak proof, if you really need some protection, and cute, if you’re into aesthetics. Comes in black and white.
If you want something super sleek and tucked away, consider these bag options, which are less bulky.
Side note: matter which trash option, use bags, especially for kiddo’s in the back. It’s not fun to clean out a week old banana peel, trust me.
A Handy Car Vacuum (Because Crumbs Are Inevitable)
No matter how hard you try, crumbs will happen. It’s a universal truth of parenting. That’s why having a handheld car vacuum is a must. There’s some really great, really small ones these days that make those quick clean ups easy in the flow of the day to day. PS - why is the noise of the crumbs being sucked up so satisfying?
And if you’re tired of feeling like your car is a snack graveyard, this vacuum could be worth a try. While I haven’t used it myself (yet!), based on the solid reviews, it’s a car must-have for wrangling the never-ending car mess! This one is pretty typical sized so not the most compact, but is a best seller on Amazon.
If you’re looking for a smaller, more portable vacuum, check out this option, which is basically a mini detailing kit. It's known to be highly effective at sucking up the gunk in every nook and cranny– like those tricky areas on a car seat (if you know you know). And it fits perfectly in your glove compartment!. Perfect for quick clean ups!
Sometimes it's better to have more accessories so you can be prepared to fight off any type of crumb fiasco. This one is double-sided and comes with a floor brush, nozzle brush, and many other attachments!
Got major crumb problems and need a little extra oomph? This powerful vacuum comes with two rechargeable batteries– sounds like a must-have for your next road trip. Those who use it say that it is a game-changer for the worst of your car’s mess!
Trunk Organizer: No More Rolling Groceries
Let’s be real– if you have kids, you also have stuff. And somehow, all that stuff winds up in the back of your car. Am I right or am I right? Between toys, sports gear, snacks, and shoes (that always seem to go missing), your trunk looks like a storage unit of never-ending clutter. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Let me introduce you to my secret simple life hack that will make a major difference: the trunk organizer.
Trunk organizers corral the chaos and point you to exactly where your things are exactly when you need them. They come in all different shapes and sizes, and provide storage compartments to organize all the stuff in your trunk. The best part? It folds up flat when you’re not using it so as not to take up extra space! As far as Amazon’s best-sellers: check this one out here or this one.
Road trip coming up? This trunk organizer comes with a lid allowing you to efficiently pack the jigsaw puzzle that is suitcases, pillows, snacks, and other travel essentials in the back of your car. It has positive reviews for durability and functionality, but may not fold as compact as other options.
To those with light interiors, don’t worry, here is the perfect option for you. The beige color of this organizer will seamlessly compliment your car. It’s also highly rated on functionality and includes a velcro bottom to hold it in place. Keep your car to par with your ideal aesthetic, and keep it mess free while you’re at it.
Need something simple? This cubby-inspired version keeps it straightforward with three compartments, allowing you to remove and adjust the dividers, and easily bunch up when not in use.
Ready to jump on the trunk organizer train? Trust me, you’ll want to.
Backpack Hooks: Save Space and Keep Bags Off the Floor
Backpacks have a way of taking over the car—especially after school, when they’re tossed on the floor or across seats. I really like these backpack hooks, which our nanny introduced us to. The kids love hanging their stuff up and I love that it’s not rolling around and getting in everyone’s way, plus the kids can access it if needed on their own.
There are a million options out there, but this set of backpack hooks is a car must-have because it’s sturdy and easy to install by popping it onto the headrest.
If you’re looking for a more aesthetic option, grab this one. It’s the organizer glow-up, so even though your kids might still be messy, at least your trunk will look like you’ve got it together.
Lots of kids with lots of bags? Maximize your car space with these dual hook backpack hooks. Each hook can accommodate two bags, allowing you to hang tote bags, backpacks, purses, shopping bags, and more on the back of each headrest.
If you are wanting extra security, look no further. These hooks come equipped with a built-in lock, keeping your bags firmly attached to the headrest. The locking mechanism provides peace of mind by preventing accidental spills and detachment, so you can focus on driving without worrying about your belongings!
Whichever you choose, just know that your car will thank you.
Help them Corral the Mess with a Cup Holder Tray
SPILLS— every parent’s nightmare. There is nothing like the never-ending crumbs and dried liquids on the seats and floors of your car. Let’s end this together– so join the movement and buy a cup holder tray. These fit snugly into your cup holders, turning them into a mini snack plate that catches crumbs and prevents spills. It’s easy to remove and clean when needed, and helps those sticky fingers stay away from the interior! It even comes in a bear version and is perfect for road trips or long car rides!
The Ultimate Wipe Holders: Because Kids and Messes Go Hand in Hand
Ah, the joys of traveling with kids—it's like living in a non-stop snack parade with a side of occasional chaos. Between the crumbs, spills, and the odd bit of sticky fingers, keeping your car clean can feel like a full-time job. If you’ve ever found yourself diving into the glove compartment in a frantic search for a napkin, you know exactly what I’m talking about. That’s why having wipes within arm's reach is not just a nice-to-have; it’s a parenting lifeline. And let’s be real, those standard tissue boxes? They’re not cutting it.
Let me introduce you to your new best friend in car organization: the cylinder car tissue holder. This nifty little device fits snugly into your car’s cup holder, so wipes are always right where you need them—no more fumbling around! It’s like having a personal assistant for spills and messes, making you look like the organized superhero you are. And let’s face it, when you’re juggling snacks, toys, and the occasional spilled drink, a wipe holder that’s easy to access is practically a parenting superpower.
If you’re ready to level up, check out this car wipe holder. This one’s got a lid for ideal storage, easy access, and looks stylish enough to make you feel like you’ve got your life together (even if the rest of the car says otherwise). It’s perfect for stashing those essential wipes, making cleanups a breeze and keeping your car looking neat. Trust me, having a wipe holder like this is like having a tiny bit of order in the delightful chaos of parenthood. Because if there’s one thing we all need, it’s a little more ease and a lot less mess!
Simplify the Chaos and Enjoy the Ride
In the end, keeping your car organized might feel like a never-ending battle, especially with kids in tow. But with a few thoughtful accessories, you can take back control and make your car a more enjoyable space. From a car trash can to corral wrappers, a handheld vacuum for crumbs, trunk organizers for all the extra stuff, to wipe holders for quick cleanups, these small investments make a big difference. Parenting comes with its fair share of chaos, but with the right tools, managing the mess becomes easier—leaving you free to enjoy the ride, literally and figuratively.
