“So what happens when airbags deploy?”
A woman’s demonstration of a modular backseat organizer has garnered over 1.3 million views, but the viral gadget has also sparked controversy about convenience versus safety.
The gray organizer promises to transform your backseat into a mobile command center, complete with cup holders, tissue dispenser, and phone stand—but some viewers are questioning whether it’s worth the potential risks.
Phoebe (@phoebeyuee), who runs the KYY AUTOSAGE account dedicated to car gadgets and supplies, showcased the multifunctional organizer in a video posted on June 14. The clip shows how the device attaches to front seat headrests, creating an entertainment and storage hub for rear passengers.
The organizer features dual cylindrical beverage holders on either side, a central tissue box with a dispensing slit, and a phone stand on top for hands-free video viewing. Below the cup holders are hooks designed for hanging bags and other items, maximizing the storage potential of the backseat area.
The backseat organizer represents the type of solution that appeals to drivers seeking to maximize passenger comfort or just keep kids entertained.
The organizer’s design addresses several common car travel frustrations: beverages that can spill during turns, tissues scattered throughout the vehicle, and passengers struggling to prop up devices during long trips. By offering a place for everything, all consolidated into a single unit, the organizer promises to create a more organized and comfortable rear seating experience.
The modular nature of the device allows it to theoretically fit various vehicle types, although compatibility depends on the headrest design and spacing.
The video’s massive view count reflects genuine interest in car organization solutions, but comments reveal mixed reactions about the product’s practicality and safety.
Several viewers immediately identified potential visibility issues. User HotBPA highlighted a critical concern, writing: “Me to my toddler in the backseat: ‘Am I clear to merge? I can’t see.'” This comment highlights the organizer’s potential to obstruct the rearview mirror’s line of sight. While federal regulations require clear rear visibility, with interior mirrors providing at least a 200-foot view behind the vehicle, aftermarket accessories that obstruct this view can create safety concerns. Several states, including California, Illinois, and Texas, explicitly prohibit hanging objects that block the driver’s view, though enforcement varies.
The product found particular appeal among ride-share drivers. Julia wrote, “This would be nice for Uber drivers,” while Peacock said, “I bought these & I became the free Uber with all my friends! I put water bottles & mint bags ahead of time! I’m so loved!!!”
However, practical concerns about the tissue component dominated many discussions. Bird expressed frustration with the design limitations, writing, “Why does every car organizer have to have the rectangle tissue box. We only use square. Plus I don’t want it there becaz I pack the small tissue packs. I rather have a pocket for storage.”
Several commenters raised safety-related questions. Texan Stuck In Washington posed a critical question: “So what happens when airbags deploy?”
Another user, Courtney Elizabeth, expressed similar concerns more bluntly: “Love to have this impaling my children if we get into an accident.”
Concerns about loose objects in crashes are well-founded. According to safety research, unsecured objects cause approximately 13,000 injuries annually in the US. At 55 mph, a 20-pound object hits with 1,000 pounds of force—enough to cause serious injury. While the organizer attaches to headrest posts, the potential for it to break loose or for items within it to become projectiles during a collision raises concerns about safety. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data from 2019 reportedly showed that unsecured objects were involved in 8,567 vehicle crashes, resulting in 1,835 injuries and 63 fatalities.
The organizer’s design also presents limitations for different seating arrangements. Just Beth noted, “That’s ok until someone tall is in the seat and they practically lay down when they are driving.”
Despite safety concerns, many viewers were keen to try it out. User Cc1973 joked: “if i get this my bf will be driving Mrs Daisy bc I’ll always be in the back seat using it,” while others specifically requested modifications to better suit their needs.
Another suggested, “It would be nice to have [the] side come down as a tray to hold food for grand kids if needed instead of the tissues!” This comment reflects the desire for more versatile organizational solutions.
When asked about weight capacity, Phoebe confirmed the organizer can hold up to 750 grams (approximately 1.65 pounds). This indicates that the device is designed for lightweight items.
The weight limit raises questions about the organizer’s suitability for families with children who might be tempted to hang heavier items from the hooks or place substantial weight in the cup holders.
Some users prefer simpler alternatives. LiteraryWhispers commented, “God I wish they had done something more useful with that middle compartment than tissues. If it were just like a box for kids to put their stuff in that tilted out I would probably buy it.”
Motor1 reached out to Phoebe via TikTok direct message. We’ll be sure to update this if she responds.
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