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09 December 2024

Brilliant Car Organisation Hacks Every Family Needs

Is your family car starting to look like a mobile tip? Don't worry, you're not alone. As a mum of three, I know exactly how quickly our cars can transform from spotless to absolute chaos. Whether it's finding half eaten packets of crisps under seats or sitting on scattered Lego pieces (ouch!), keeping the family car tidy can feel like mission impossible.

But here's the brilliant news: I've cracked the code to car organisation and I'm sharing all my favourite tricks that have genuinely made a difference for our family. These aren't those Pinterest perfect solutions that last approximately two minutes, these are real, practical tips that work for real families.

A car boot with bags and boots and other items messily in. Stock image from canva pro

These tips will make your car tidier and more organised



Getting Started: Essential Car Storage Solutions


Let's talk about some absolute game changers when it comes to car storage. These items have made a real difference in our family car:

Back of Seat Organisers 

These are worth their weight in gold. Pop one on the back of each front seat and suddenly you've got proper storage for everything from colouring books to tablets. I particularly love the ones with see through pockets like this one so children can see what they're reaching for.

Boot Organisers

We've all had shopping go flying around the boot. A sturdy boot organiser like this one is brilliant for keeping everything in its place. Look for one with separate compartments to keep your emergency wellies away from the weekly shop.

Clever Cup Holder Solutions

Those cup holders can work harder than just holding your morning cuppa. Pop in some silicone cupcake cases to catch crumbs and make cleaning simple.


Age Specific Organisation for Different Stages


For the Tiny Ones (0-2 years): 

  • Keep a nappy caddy stocked with nappies, wipes and spare clothes 
  • Store spare muslin cloths for unexpected situations

For School Age Children: 

  • Set up a homework station for waiting times at after-school clubs
  • Keep a spare PE kit in a vacuum bag for forgetful moments

For the Teenagers:

  • Install a charging station 
  • Store emergency deodorant, sanitary products and hair accessories

Keeping It All Shipshape


Setting up these systems is helpful but maintaining them is key. Here are my tried and tested maintenance tips:

The Bring It, Take It Rule 

Keep it simple: when something new comes into the car on the return journey it needs to be taken out again. 


The Petrol Station Rule 

If your children are in the car when you go to the petrol station give them a carrier bag before you head to the pump. While you are filling up the car challenge them to fill up the bag with any rubbish lying around the back seats. 


The Friday Sort Out

When we get back from school on a Friday afternoon it's time to have a little clear out. This means no school jumpers are left in the car and forgotten to be washed, no lunchboxes going mouldy over the weekend and no forgotten art work.  It doesn't take long and it means we start the weekend ready for adventures.


Practical Tips That Make a Difference


  • Keep baby wipes (or a plastic box with reusable wipes) in the car for quick clean-ups
  • Store carrier bags in the boot for muddy wellies, emergencies and last minute shopping trips 
  • Keep some snacks in the car, biscuits like Hobnobs are a good option as they will survive extreme weather.
  • If your car is a big mess right now and it all feels a little overwhelming, remember the power of a 10 minute clean.

Creating Lasting Solutions


These organisation hacks work because they're sustainable and practical. They fit into real family life without requiring constant maintenance or reminders.

Remember, we're aiming for manageable organisation, not perfection. A tidy car means less stress, fewer lost items and more peaceful journeys. And no last minute panics when you need to take the car for it's MOT.

Do you have car organisation ideas to share? Let us know in the comments what works for your family.

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