8 Things You Must Remove From Your Car Before the Ground Thaws

February 4, 2026

winter car cleanup — Image Source: Shutterstock

Before every road trip, I make sure the car is cleaned out, and everything is where it should be. During the winter months, life happens. But with the colder weather, most of us get lazy about cleaning our cars. As spring approaches, this is one crucial task you really shouldn’t overlook. As the ground thaws and temperatures rise, these eight items can become hazards, attract pests, or even damage your car.

1. Salt-Covered Floor Mats and Carpets

Road salt is a winter essential, but it’s also a silent destroyer of your car’s interior. Salt can seep into your floor mats and carpets, leading to corrosion and unpleasant odors as the weather warms. If left unchecked, it can even eat through the metal floorboards over time. Before the thaw, remove your mats, shake them out, and give them a thorough wash. Let them dry completely before putting them back to prevent mold and mildew.

2. Emergency Water Bottles

Keeping water in your car during winter is smart, but once temperatures rise, those bottles can become a problem. Heat causes plastic to break down, potentially leaching harmful chemicals into the water. Worse, if the bottles are left in direct sunlight, they can warp or even burst. Take them out, inspect for damage, and replace them with fresh bottles if needed. Store new ones in a cooler bag to protect them from heat exposure.

3. Heavy Winter Gear

Bulky coats, snow boots, and extra blankets are great to have on hand during a blizzard, but they’re just clutter once the snow melts. These items take up valuable space and can weigh your vehicle down, reducing fuel efficiency. Plus, damp gear left in the car can create a musty smell and encourage mold growth. Store them in a clean, dry place at home until next winter. Your trunk (and your gas tank) will thank you.

4. Ice Scrapers and Snow Brushes

Once the threat of frost and snow is gone, there’s no need to keep your ice scraper or snow brush in the car. These tools can rattle around, scratch interior surfaces, or get lost under seats. Leaving them in the car also makes it more likely you’ll forget where they are next winter. Clean them off and store them in a designated winter bin in your garage or closet. That way, they’ll be easy to find when the cold returns.

5. Road Salt and Sandbags

Many drivers keep a bag of road salt or sand in their trunk for traction during icy conditions. But once the ground thaws, these items become unnecessary dead weight. They can also tear open, spilling gritty messes that are tough to clean. Remove them promptly and store them in a dry place for next season. Your suspension system will appreciate the lighter load.

6. Expired Snacks and Emergency Food

Winter car kits often include granola bars, trail mix, or other non-perishable snacks. But even these have expiration dates, and fluctuating temperatures can degrade their quality. As spring approaches, check your stash and toss anything that’s expired or looks questionable. Replace it with fresh items if you plan to keep an emergency kit year-round. A quick refresh now prevents unpleasant surprises later.

7. Old Windshield Washer Fluid

Winter washer fluid is specially formulated to resist freezing, but it’s not ideal for warmer months. As temperatures rise, the alcohol in winter blends can evaporate more quickly, reducing effectiveness. If your reservoir is still full of winter fluid, consider using it up or draining and replacing it with a summer blend. This ensures better performance against bugs, pollen, and road grime. It’s a small swap that makes a big difference in visibility.

8. Forgotten Trash and Clutter

Winter makes us lazy about car cleanliness. Between freezing temps and early sunsets, it’s easy to let trash pile up. But as the weather warms, that forgotten coffee cup or fast-food bag can start to stink or attract pests. Take 15 minutes to do a full sweep of your car’s interior, including under seats and in door pockets.

Spring Starts With a Clean Slate

As the seasons shift, your car deserves a little attention. Removing winter-specific items and clutter not only freshens up your ride but also protects your vehicle from damage and improves fuel efficiency. Think of it as spring cleaning for your second home on wheels. A few simple steps now can save you money, time, and headaches down the road. So grab a trash bag, pop the trunk, and give your car the seasonal reset it deserves.

What’s the weirdest thing you’ve found in your car after winter? Share your story in the comments!