Do you drive a clean car? And I’m not talking emissions here. I mean, do you drive around in a car that looks like it just came from the showroom? Do you allow any food or liquids in the car? Do you ban anyone holding food or beverages from your car?

If you drive a clean car, you know who you are. You can check off everything on this list:

Carpets: Freshly vacuumed, free of pet hair and dirt

Interior: All surfaces dust-free and clean, including bins and map pockets

Air vents: Swabbed clean with a Q-Tip. Really, I do that.

Floors: Nothing on them except the carpet

Seats: Front and back seats are clutter-free

Windows: Streak-free shine inside and out. No fingerprints or dog nose prints, cute as that may be.

Trunk: Only essentials, like emergency roadside kit, jumper cables, a shovel and blanket.

Exterior: Washed, waxed and polished regularly. 

If you are like me, you say yes to everything on the list above. I have endured years of teasing about my car cleaning habits, but I think it’s a more pleasant experience to drive a car that is clean and clutter-free. How about you?

Jeff's Comment:

I have a 4 year old kid. The back seat, which is his kingdom and domain, is several inches thick with toys, books, cookie crumbs and various other child detritus. I cannot check off a single category on Cindy's list. She wouldn't ride in my car if I paid her.

Cindy's Comment:

I have been in Jeff's car and can attest to his comment above.  Next time I'm wearing coveralls and hip boots.