March 10, 2006

How to keep a tidy car

It seems that every time I meet someone new and give them a ride in my car, they are shocked and amazed at the cleanliness of the inside of my car, especially for a guy.

How do you do it!?, they ask.

I guess hitching a ride has become synonymous with pushing over a nest of loose papers, empty Aquifina bottles, cd cases, pom-poms, and McDonald's (not so fresh) apple pie boxes to make room for your ass.

I've decided to reveal my secrets for keeping a clean car:

  1. Don't bring crap into your car.
  2. If you do bring crap into your car, bring it out of your car.

This is the Zen.

I think that's it. If I think of any other tips, I'll post them here.

In Matters that are otherwise worthwhile

Posted by Josh Staiger at 01:29 AM

Comments

Duder, my car has to be the one thing that always stays tidy. I've always followed your simple steps because it seemed to so obvious. What's strange is that I don't follow the same concept in other areas.

Nothing bothers me more than when someone else brings something into my car and leaves it. Such action revokes any privilege to future rides in my vehicle.

Posted by: Evan Perry March 10, 2006 03:30 AM | Permanent link

I have followed your koan, but on occasion have found it just as effective to reverse the steps. Hope the extra complexity doesn't disturb the zen.

Posted by: some guy at work March 10, 2006 10:01 AM | Permanent link

amen, brothah Josh. tidy cars are the way to go!!

Posted by: Mary Ann March 17, 2006 09:22 PM | Permanent link

I have often wondered what psychosis with which I am afflicted that I look like a pack mule as I head to work. I carry way too much crap with me. Sometimes I break both rules by bringing too much crap AND leaving it in the car all day. "Huh. Maybe I didn't actually need to bring four business books, a laptop, two trade publications, three notepads (because I don't write on napkins during tea time), my iPod AND a bottle of ibuprofen for my aching back (wonder why it hurts)?"

I need a support group.

Posted by: DUST!N March 27, 2006 11:42 AM | Permanent link