Jobs for the Week: Decluttering the Car

This week we are tackling the car! Be honest, did you just come out in a cold sweat thinking about this one? Don't overthink it, just make a start. It will be worth it once it is done.

Let me know how you get on and tag me in your before and after pics.

If You Have 5 Minutes

• Clear the surfaces: Remove rubbish, receipts, and empty bottles from cup holders, door pockets, and seats. Give the dashboard a quick wipe.

• Boot check: Open the boot and take out anything that doesn’t belong—shopping bags, old coats, sports gear, random tools, or charity bags waiting to be donated (go and drop them off).

If You Have 30 Minutes

• Empty it out: Take everything out of the car, including the glove box and centre console. Sort items into keep, relocate, or bin.

• Group the essentials: Keep only what you need for driving—logbook, insurance documents, sunglasses, charger, and a small first aid kit. Store them neatly in designated compartments.

• Tidy the boot: Create a small kit with jumper cables, torch, tyre inflator, and breakdown essentials. Use a storage box or boot organiser to stop things rolling around.

If You Have Longer

• Deep clean: Vacuum the seats and floor, wipe down all surfaces, and clean the windows inside. Remove floor mats to shake or wash.

• Check for duplicates: Do you really need three ice scrapers or a dozen reusable bags in the boot? Pare back to what you actually use.

• Set a routine: Keep a small bag or bin in the car for rubbish, and aim to clear out the car weekly to stop clutter building up again.