As every college student knows, living in a dorm has its share of problems. As the fall semester begins, you arrive on campus, excited to see old friends, share stories and decorate your room, but soon see the excitement turn to frustration when you enter your ‘new’ room - disappointment hits you like a hangover. You realize it’s going to take quite a bit of elbow grease to whip your room into shape. However, you will find that having these following five items will make the job a whole lot easier:
- 1. Duct Tape
Ask any homeowner (or dorm-owner), Duct Tape is a godsend and will fix any problem. If the leg on your computer chair is broken - Duct tape, if your refrigerator door won’t close properly - Duct Tape, if your roommate won’t stop snoring - Duct Tape. If you are not a fan of the standard gray (rather boring if you ask me), there are an assortment of other colors to choose:
- 2. Rug
Most people don’t give their dorm room floor enough consideration - sad to say, you’ll be lucky to find students who even vacuum their dorm. To protect yourself from the years of compounded cookie crumbs, beer spills, dirt and other questionable stains, invest in a rug that will cover your dorm’s walking area. Every college student knows to wear flip-flops in a shower, but you would probably be just as smart to wear them in your dorm room, if you didn’t have a rug. Be creative and get something funky, although I would vouch against any shag carpeting, they tend to be a pain to clean:
- 3. Can Opener
Late night snacks are going to come in one of three forms: a take out box, plastic wrap or a can. The last thing you want to do is brainstorm at 3:00 AM on a Saturday night the best way to open a can of Spaghetti O’s without a can opener. Be prepared and pick up one this essential cooking item:
- 4. Screw Driver and Hammer
Upon move-in, there will be countless pictures, posters and boards to hang around your dorm room. I’ve found it pretty hard trying to bang in a picture nail with sneakers, but that’s just me. Setting things up will be much easier with the help of a screwdriver and hammer. Soon enough, you will be the most popular kid on the floor (cause you were the only one smart enough to bring them):
- 5. Plastic Hooks
Whether hats, ties, belts, towels or any other hangable items *roommates ;-)* - plastic hooks come in very handy. I’ve thrown a few up in my closet and have created a bunch of space and easy access to my clothing accessories. They are especially crucial for hanging up wet towels - leave those on the floor and you will regret it. You can also use them to keep wires organized or hang up chain lights across your dorm:
