I always tell my clients to “store it where they use it.” As I was driving in some unexpected rain this week, I was very thankful that I had my umbrella stashed under the seat in my car…whew, because it was really coming down!
This prompted me to think about the other items that should be stored in your car. I am going to list them and then explain why:
- Napkins
- Kleenex
- Trash bags
- Grocery Bags
- Coupons
- Umbrella
- Towel
Trash Cans. When my kids were younger, I refused to have trash on the floor of the car. They learned at a very early age to put their trash in the trash can (Target or The Container Store). They could put anything in there except for wet items (like drinks and apples). This was a great way to keep the car clean and I simply emptied the bags out when I was filling up with gas.
Napkins & Kleenex. I am going to lump these two together because they can both be used for the same thing. When you spill something or if you are eating in the car, you will ultimately need something to wipe your hands with. My 16 year old just admitted to me that he now drives around with napkins in his console!
Grocery Bags. How often have you ended up at the grocery store and left your reusable grocery bags at home? I have found that the Tote Buddy (neatly holds piles of reusable bags, helping you to de-clutter and stay organized for every shopping trip) is a great solution for that and I keep mine in the car underneath the passenger’s side seat. This serves as a reminder and it is also handy to grab when I jump out of the car. Check out http://www.thetotebuddy.com/index.phpoption=com_content&view=article&id=8&Itemid=9 for more information!
Coupons. I can’t tell you how many home offices that I have organized and found grocery coupons organized there. When you are out and about, you need those coupons when you arrive at the store and not at home on your office desk. I don’t always plan my shopping sessions so I may be driving, have a few minutes to run in and pick something up and I want my coupons at my fingertips! I use a small accordion folder that is alphabetized that will fit in my console (my Bed, Bath & Beyond coupons have their own file folder). This has saved me time and money on many occasions! Think about where your coupons are stored.
Umbrella. Living in Arizona, putting an umbrella in your car is not a top priority, but when you need it you need it! It stays tucked away under the passenger side seat and is always there when I have the occasion to use it.
Towel. I don’t know why, but a silly towel in my car has been very useful, especially with kids, dogs and accidents. I find one that matches the interior of my car so that it is not an eye sore and I tuck it away for safe keeping. One never knows…
Happy Organizing! Bridges