After years of living under your roof, it’s finally time for your child to head off to college to live an independent life.
While you can’t put tracking devices on them to account for their every move, you can make sure your students are prepared with the essentials they will need to survive the next four years.
“Dorm rooms are pretty basic,” says Rachael Risinger, Bed Bath & Beyond spokesperson. “Four white walls, a bed, and if they’re lucky, a desk and chair. But, with some basic dorm room accessories it’s easy to create a space they’ll be happy to call home.” Here are some tips to help you equip their space:
Bedding – Since you won’t know where that standard dorm-issued mattress has been, encase it in an entomologist lab-tested and recommended bed bug mattress protector, such as those by Allergy Luxe, to protect your mattress from bed bugs and allergens like mold and dust. For support, add a mattress pad and a topper to smooth out the lumps and bumps.
The bed is often the fashion focus of a dorm room, so let it reflect your child’s personal style. Whether they choose a comforter set or duvet, this year’s colors and patterns are sure to make a statement. Guys may gravitate towards more simple patterns, such as the rugged blue stripes of Nautica’s “Knots Bay” bedding, while ladies may prefer more intricate designs like the purple medallions of the “Odessa” 11-piece set.
Studying – Without regular schedules, college students may fall into habits that can compromise their academic success, like sleeping in and being late for class. New gadgets like the iLuv Shake and Wake will wake them from the deepest slumber just in time for class by literally shaking their pillow until they get up.
Once they’re up, some thoughtful accessories can help too, such as the eDesk, whose micro-bead pillow and non-skid top make studying easy from the comfort of a bed or futon.
Storage – There are three rules to help create storage space in a cramped dorm room: hang it, hide it and hold it.
Closet space is at a premium, so consider hanging shelves for sweaters or shoes, such as those made by Gearbox. Then, add a double hang closet rod to double the amount of hanging space. Add bed lifts under bed posts to create extra inches of storage space and use under bed bags for off-season clothes, shoes, blankets or towels that aren’t used every day.
For a printable checklist of dorm room necessities, visit the “Shop for College” tab at www.bedbathandbeyond.com.
And after sending off your well-prepared child to college, put up your feet. After all, it’s time you got some rest –you deserve it. – Courtesy of State College
