Clean Cars Drive Better

Prepping for Our Road Trip Adventure

The countdown to our month-long road trip from Manitoba to beautiful BC is on, and I couldn’t be more excited! 🚗✨ But before we start packing up the van with everything we’ll need for the journey, there’s one important step that has become a bit of a ritual for us: getting the car seriously clean.

When you’ve got three little ones (plus a furry co-pilot!), things can get real messy, real fast. There are crumbs, toys, snacks, and, of course, the inevitable trail of dirt that comes from hiking and outdoor adventures. With all that in mind, a clean car isn’t just about looks—it’s about setting the tone for a smooth and cozy ride.

Here’s how we get the van ready for the big trip:

1. Scrubbing Down the Car Seats

The car seats take a beating with toddlers and babies! I make sure to scrub down the seats before we hit the road, using a mix of gentle cleaning solutions and wipes that are safe for little ones. It’s all about removing those spills and crumbs so we’re comfortable during the long stretches of driving.

While I’m at it, I always double-check that all the car seats are properly secured. Making sure they’re clean and properly buckled in before the journey begins is crucial for safety—especially with young kids. I make sure the straps are adjusted to fit snugly, and the seats are tightly anchored in place. Safety is always the priority, and I like to take the time to ensure everyone’s seat is ready to go!

2. Organizing the Toy Bin

One of the things that helps make the journey more pleasant is having a well-organized toy bin. This is our lifesaver for long drives! I go through the toys, toss anything that’s broken, and organize them so that they’re easy to access during the trip. The key is keeping things fun and engaging for the kids—whether it’s books, small puzzles, or little figurines.

3. Squeegee Hack for Pet Hair & Crumbs

Okay, if you’re traveling with kids (and a pet), you probably know the struggle of dealing with pet hair and crumbs in the car. That’s where my favorite hack comes in: the trusty squeegee! A quick once-over with a squeegee removes pet hair and crumbs from the carpet and upholstery like magic. It’s such a game-changer and makes the whole car feel fresher.

4. Quick Carpet Refresh

Last but not least, I do a quick once-over of the carpets to get rid of any lingering dirt and dust. We might not do a deep clean every time, but a quick refresh makes the ride so much more comfortable.

With everything spick-and-span, we’re ready for the journey ahead! A clean car isn’t just about making things look nice—it helps us feel more organized and ready to tackle whatever comes our way on the road.

What Are Your Pre-Trip Rituals?

I love hearing about other people’s road trip prep! Do you have any favorite cleaning hacks or ways to get your car road-trip ready? Share your tips below!

Here’s to a clutter-free, cozy ride and a road trip full of new adventures and memories! 🌟