When it comes to clutter and organization, there is definitely a fine line that defines the messes that challenge us.  I’m sure you’re familiar with it.  It’s the line between “pick up your things, and find them a designated place” (aka clutter), and “bust out the rubber gloves and bleach” (aka filth).  Okay, maybe the line isn’t so thin for us adults, but if you have kids, or if you work with kids, or if you know what kids are, you know that to them, there sometimes isn’t a line at all.

Dirty socks and used tissues are strewn about amongst stuffed animals and action figures.  Snack wrappers in the bathroom drawer with hair brushes and toothpaste.  What is up with that?! Those cup holders in the car and in car seats…you don’t want to know.  Don’t even get me started on teenagers and dirty dishes.   You get the point.  Kids come with clutter and filth.  It’s part of the deal.  It’s frustrating, but unfortunately unavoidable.  I guess they’re worth it, though.

Here’s a question for all you parents out there.  How often do you have the following items in your purse, pocket or hand: a random doll part, chewed up gum, something with wheels, used tissues, a half-eaten snack, anything sticky and unidentifiable?  If you read that list un-phased, it’s gone too far.  You need help.  Here are some pretty simple tips to help you deal with being a human trash can/toy box:

In the Car:

• There are a million organizing devices, like this one, available for kids in vehicles.  Find one that works for you.
• Enforce this rule: No one leaves anything behind in the car.
• Keep a plastic bag in the console or glove box for trash.  Replace daily if necessary.

On the Go:

• Keep a small ziploc bag in your purse or pocket for chewed up gum and used tissues.
• Wipes, wipes and more wipes.  You can stop buying these when your youngest is in college.  (Actually, college kids…still gross.  They will need those in the care packages you send them.  Buy stock in wipes.)
• If they must bring a toy, limit it to one, and they are responsible for all of its parts.  (Polly Pockets are pure evil.)

At Home:  

• Have a place for everything.  If the toothpaste has a designated drawer, it’s less likely to end up with the hair accessories.  Toothpaste + all that hair = bad.
• Place small trash cans in accessible locations in every bedroom.
• Assign chores, even gross ones.  Get the kids used to taking out the trash, clearing dirty dishes and being on pet duty.  This will help teach them hygiene, and they won’t rely on you so much for the dirty work.

Following these simple tips can help you Can the Clutter in your home, car or on the go anywhere.  Eventually, that line between clutter and filth might just get a little more solid.