Handy Items to Have in Your Car

• Windex Wipes
• Disposable Camera (for car accidents)
• Hand Sanitizer*
• Napkins (save extras from your to-go food)
• Pen or pencil (for writing down phone numbers or directions)
• Bandages and anti-bacterial ointment
• 20 dollar bill and change for parking
• Old pair of sneakers or walking shoes (so you don't have to change a tire in your kitten heels)
• For dog owners: extra leash and plastic baggies
• Because we have kids: spare 100% juice boxes, granola bars (w/out HFCS!), facial tissues, wipies, and for infants – 2nd graders, a spare change of clothing.

*We don’t advocate regular use of hand sanitizer, but it’s great to have on hand just in case!

Remove Sweat Stains

Are pesky sweat stains a problem on your shirts? Put a scoop of OxyClean into a bucket of water and soak your item overnight (at least 10 hours). In the morning, wash normally. This works like a miracle but we can’t guarantee its safety on all fabrics. I exercise almost daily and to be honest, I’m a “sweater”. Since I learned this tip, I just throw a scoop of OxyClean into the wash load with my gym clothes. This really works well, even on whites.

Bidet in a Box? Wipies are Not Just for Babies Anymore

We both keep wipies at all our toilets because we can’t afford bidets. Flushable wipies are the next best thing. They are also an excellent item to pack in carry-on baggage for airline trips. Our favorite brand (for adult use): Pampers Kandoos, but ONLY the magic melon scent. This is the best scent we’ve found. Most of brands made for adults smell creepy and ones for babies smell like a nursery.

Stop Calls from the Grocery Store

Does your husband or partner often forget things on the grocery list, or call you from the store to ask where something is? Write your list in the order that items are located in the store. You can even point out "landmarks" for finding items, specific colors of packages, etc. This can reduce the chance that items are missed and reduce backtracking through the store (and that phone call asking where the tampons are).

Need a Restroom Break?

If you are out and about and your child suddenly needs to use the restroom; look for a Starbuck’s coffee shop. Starbuck’s shops are everywhere and have individual restrooms which is easier for families. This is especially true when Dad is out with the kids so Dad does not have to make the choice between bringing your daughter into the Men’s Room or sending her into a public restroom alone. Share suggestions of stores that have individual or family restrooms in your neighborhood with other parents so that you always know where to go when your kids “have to go.”

Simple Trick to Keep Track of Your Kids in Stores and Parking Lots

Tell your kids they need to keep one hand in one of your pants’ pockets. Not wearing pants? We use our purses, coats, or anything you are wearing. In the grocery store, my kids hold onto, or ride in, the cart at all times. The goal is you want to be able to keep track of them but allow them some independence since they do not always want to hold your hand. We always review the rules in a friendly manner right before stepping out of the car.