If you’ve ever accepted a friend’s offer of a ride and wondered what exploded to create the disaster that resides on the seat and floor space they’ve offered you, you’re not alone. Some people seem to have cars that attract junk and debris like a magnet, while others have a vehicle that constantly presents itself as if they’ve been buying a new car monthly. As the presentation of one’s automobile is generally recognized to be an extension of self, it’s important to keep your car looking sharp. Just in case you’re that friend with the disaster presentation, here are some tips on how to straighten up your act.

1. No one looks forward to the effort involved in a major car clean up.

The easiest approach is to do a tiny amount of interior cleaning every day. A very handy method is to keep wet wipes inside your car within easy reach at all times. When you’re stopped for any amount of time – at a stoplight you know to be particularly long, in line at the drive-through or when your passenger has hopped out for a quick run into a store – pull out the wipes and give everything within reach a quick dusting.

2. Most auto doors have a map pocket.

In this age of iPhones, maps have become relics, so use this space for any trash generated while driving. It’s generally out of sight, and visible only when you open the door. The perfect time to empty the pocket is whenever you buy gas; there’s a trash receptacle next to the pump at virtually every refueling station.

3. Pumping gas takes a few minutes, which can be handled without your presence.

Click the tab that locks the pump on and use the windshield wiper sponge and squeegee to clean your exterior windows while fueling. Getting rid of the silhouette that remains after using your auto’s wiper blades improves the view noticeably.

4. Stones and other debris such as leaves find their way onto your floor mat between vacuuming.

Take a few seconds when you arrive home from work to remove the mat and give it a quick shake. Presto! It’s noticeably cleaner without a vacuum.

5. Coffee drinkers; find a container with a spill proof lid.

Use it religiously. However it happens, coffee inside a car is guaranteed to eventually spill, which will leave a stain. Prevent it, rather than being faced with an ineffective clean up at 65 miles per hour.

6. Never leave your vehicle empty handed.

Multi-tasking isn’t just a word on a resume. When you exit your transportation, actively look for anything that’s out of place. Remove it and put it where it belongs.

A mess begins to accumulate once you let down your guard and stop noticing it. When keeping your car clean is a priority, it will reflect well on you. People will always be happy to catch a ride with you if your car makes a smart presentation. For inspiration, remember that thieves are attracted to ‘stuff’ they see inside your car, especially laptops. By keeping your car clean and empty, you will deter theft – something you may want to avoid because buying a car is expensive.

If all else fails, there’s always motorcycles. Then again, you’d have to learn motorcycle mechanics as a whole separate venture. Depending on your level of involvement, it may just be easier to keep your car clean.