By Ann Springer

Do you have the mini-van that has empty juice boxes and Cheerios that fall out when you open the door to drop your kids off at school? Or maybe your SUV looks more like a sporting good store than a four-wheel-drive vehicle?

Your car takes a beating because of spills and snacking. As the kids get older, the damage is also caused by soccer cleats making muddy imprints on the leather seats or by science projects that get knocked over in route. Many families spend just as much time in the car shuffling around from one activity to the next than they do gathered around the dinner table.

You are not alone in the quest to have a respectable-looking family vehicle. Here are some steps every family should take in facing this never-ending battle for keeping car clutter under control.

1. Cart in out. All of that extra stuff that gets lugged around from one activity of the day to the next should be removed each time you return home. For example, sweaters, coats, backpacks, sports gear, books, etc. put back in its appropriate spot. Many times trash gets dumped on the floor of the car and left behind. Keeping a trash bag in the garage makes for an easy reminder to all family members to put trash where it belongs.

2. Tote it around. The family vehicle must carry some essential items for road-trip happiness. If you spend a lot of time in the car, it’s like a second home. Take advantage of behind-the-seat organizers or other storage systems in the back of the vehicle or trunk for toys, books, and other supplies. Stash school supplies and snacks for school-aged children to get a head start on homework if you’re out running errands or you find yourself in between after-school activities.

3. Stash it in small spaces. Every car has a glove compartment and other built in storage areas. Utilize these well by stocking them with items such as a notepad, pen, tire gauge, baby wipes, and paper napkins or tissues. I also keep a small makeup bag with lipstick, Tylenol, and other essentials at my fingertips.

4. Be ready to tough it out. In the case of an accident or other problem you encounter on the road you should be prepared with supplies in your trunk. I suggest keeping a blanket, maps, water, snacks, flares, flashlight, help sign, first-aid kit, and plastic bags. Many of these items come in handy when you make a spontaneous outing to the park or when you’re in car longer than you expected.

5. Put everyone to work. There’s no better way to motivate the team to keep the car clean than to have them lend a hand in wiping off their own fingerprints or vacuuming up their own spilled snacks. Make it a habit to do a quick cleanup every time to fill up your tank. It’s a good chance to collect any trash and shake out the floor mats.