The first time I walked into a Babies ‘R Us store, I was a newly pregnant, nervous, and anxious first time mother. I was holding the several page baby registry “suggested items” list in my shaky hand, and while strolling down the aisles completely overwhelmed, I had a full blown panic attack. I walked out and returned with a “been there done that mom,” and together we shopped for what I really needed.
I had a strikingly similar experience when my first son headed off to college a couple years ago. Armed with the “suggested items” list from his college’s housing department, along with a list the store provided me, I strolled down aisles completely overwhelmed. Again, there I was looking at the new reality of having my baby go away to college, while giving zombie stares to shower caddies and plastic drawers sets.
I needed a “been there done that” college mom to tell me what my kid really needs to take to college with him, and now after having gone through this experience already (and getting ready to do it AGAIN for my second son!) I am THAT person!
But this summer-with a new dorm item list in hand (and much less anxiety), I was able to use my knowledge and experience to confidently shop for All. The. Things.
So what items are must haves for the dorm?
All items are from The Container Store, and for a 20% off coupon on your entire college purchase, CLICK HERE.
Click on the light blue links to be take directly to the product!
1. A Rolling Storage Trunk
The first go round I bought a few cheap discount store plastic bins, and thought they would also be a great alternative to luggage, and double as under bed storage. Then I learned there’s a reason they cost $5 a piece- they DO NOT LAST. Lids get warped, bins bend, and as far as moving them? They are clunky and heavy. This ROLLING TRUNK is the best solution, and will be perfect for storing and moving personal items throughout their college years. This thing is indestructible and worth every penny. I bought two per college kid.
2. Sit and Store
Besides a bed and one desk chair, there is nowhere to sit in a dorm room. This solves that problem, and doubles as more storage space. Can hold up to 275 pounds, and has 4,096 cubic-inches of storage space (think large filing cabinet drawer.) Comes in a variety of colors, and there’s also a larger bench size for even more storage, or when they begin apartment living.
3. Bunk Bed Organizer
Let’s face it, college kids are in bed A LOT, so why not add more organizing options right at their bedside? This is a must have for easy access and reach for all their important items (phones.) No excuses like, “Mom I couldn’t reach my phone!” when you call.
4. High Quality Drawers
Another place where you don’t want to skimp and go cheap is storage drawers, because you will end up having to buy the same set of drawers five times. Trust me on this. Go with high quality from the start, and they will last years. The Container Store offers a variety of sizes to choose from, all made to survive the beating they’ll be taking in the dorm room. This three drawer set by Elfa is even sturdy enough to keep loaded up and carried during move in day.
5. Washing Clothes and Bodies
Shower caddies are a must, and so are laundry hampers, and this combo set of everything they need to get clean (and wear clean clothes), is all they’ll need. Again, go with the sturdy hamper like the one in this set, and you’ll get years out of it. It’s even solid enough to double duty as storage when school is out.
6. Back of Door Storage
While this may say it’s just for shoes, this sucker can hold a ton of random things- toiletries, cleaning supplies, school supplies, snack and food items- the list goes on and on. 24 space saving slots for all their stuff is a lifesaver.
Visit The Container Store’s College Section, and
sign up here to receive a coupon for 20%
off your entire purchase!
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