So, you’re starting university…
First of all, congratulations! Now you’re here and faced with one of the first challenges: moving into dorms.
Whether you’ve lived away from home before or this is the very first time, you want to make your new space feel as much like a second home as possible. I’m sure you're aware of the basics you need – kitchenware, bedding and bathroom accessories – but how about ways to spruce up your room?
Here are some tips:
Maximise your space. Dorm rooms run pretty small, so finding ways to make the most of the space you have is key. Investing in bathroom caddies, stackable folders, mini shelves, and wardrobe organisers can make your place neater.
When moving in, try to allot designated spots for your everyday items. Scrambling around for your ID at 8:57 am is never fun.
Clean and tidy regularly. You’ll be grateful during those days when you ‘accidentally’ sleep past your alarm.
Now, here are some must-haves for your *perfect dorm*
Stationary: Nice stationery means higher productivity levels, right? Why not check out some of the cute stationery Typo has to offer: Typo- Planner, Typo- Pen pack
Fairy lights: A popular student decoration. Use them for dim lighting in the evenings for that pretty and warm aesthetic. Primark- Fairy Lights
Posters: Decorate your notice board with an assortment of posters that speak to you: music, films, celebrities, art – it's your choice! On-campus poster sales are a great place to purchase budget-friendly posters.
Throw cushions and blankets: Does anything say ‘comfy’ like these? IKEA- Green cushion, Wilko- Blush throw
Himalayan salt lamp: These pretty lamps give off a pinkish-orange tinge and are said to improve your mood and sleep, like this one.
Potpourri: Most dorm rules prohibit lighting candles, so add some potpourri for a nice fragranced room. IKEA- Potpourri
Photos: Keep a bit of home with you. The app ‘Freeprints’ gives you 40 free photo prints per month! You can get a nice collage frame to hang on your wall like this one: IKEA- 8-photo collage
Note: I’d recommend using Command products to hang or stick things on your wall... if you want to see your deposit again.
Artificial (or real) plants: For low-maintenance plants, I’d choose a cactus or a succulent, but there are plenty of artificial ones out there. Wilko- Succulent in Ceramic
Mini rugs: One or two little rugs can make your floors a little bit less bare, and your feet will thank you (especially during the colder months). IKEA- white rug
File boxes: For loose papers, documents, receipts, or whatever you fancy. Wilko- Box File
Extra hooks: If you’re a bit of a clothes maniac like myself, you’ll need more ways to hang things, and it's as simple as buying some affordable IKEA- S Hooks
An alarm/mini clock: For phone-free timekeeping, why not shop the IKEA- alarm clock
Bringing something sentimental from home, like a handwritten card, is such an important touch to any room. In my first year, I brought my childhood friend (okay, teddy bear) with me – it's easy to add comfort to an otherwise foreign place.
Take your time to get comfy and acclimatise to your new environment. Coming to university is a fresh start, so don’t be afraid to try new things. And remember, you’re not alone.
Edited by Michelle Almeida