Moving into a dorm room is exciting. However, if freshmen don’t get a jump on organizing their small space, things will quickly get out of hand. New college students often have difficulty adjusting to living in a small dorm room – particularly if they also have to adjust to daily life with a roommate. The following checklist will help students pack and unpack efficiently, organize closet space and make use of vertical space in their rooms.
Dorm Packing Tips
On moving day, students should pack with a plan. Grouping like items can make unpacking a breeze. Pack clothes in boxes according to their season. When they are put away, move the items to be worn immediately to the front of the closet.
Label everything, and unpack one box at a time. When students clearly label their boxes with the contents, they can decide more easily what items to unpack first and not be overwhelmed by a room full of open boxes with no place to start unpacking. Boxes should be collapsed as they are emptied to create more room for unpacking.
Organizing Dorm Room Closet Space
Chances are most college students will need to carry their toiletries with them to the shower. It is a good idea to invest in a tote for keeping shampoo, conditioner, soap, washcloths, makeup, and hairdryer together. This will come in handy on days when students are running late to class.
It isn’t likely that college students will have a lot of closet space. When it comes to organizing the closet, students should opt for hanging closet organizers to maximize space. Hangers and racks that can be hung over the door are good for organizing shoes and accessories.
When the closet space runs out, it is time to look for ways to create more storage. Under bed storage bins can hold infrequently used items and clothing that is out of season. They are also great for holding school supplies, blankets, and shoes.
Organizing Dorm Furniture
Making use of vertical space is really important. Stack what can be stacked. Dairy crates are great for organizing books, CDs, and school supplies.
Loft beds create extra space too. They can be used to maximize lower level space for a desk, chair, TV and anything else the college student might need. Students should buy specifically designed college dorm furniture. They are made to maximize space. Look for desks, tables, dorm refrigerators and anything else students might need that is made to fit tight spaces.
The interior design of a dorm room is important, and students who have an organized room will be better prepared to do well in school. They can spend less time stressing over where they put their shoes, their keys, and their homework and more time studying and enjoying campus life.
References:
Unclutterer. Organizing Your Dorm Room. Accessed July 19, 2010.
Decorating Kids' Rooms How to Organize and Decorate Your Dorm Room. Accessed July 19, 2010.
Emily Suess - Emily Suess has been a freelance writer, editor and proofreader since 2003. She specializes in web content and editing, and her previous ...
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