College Apartment: 7 Essentials for Your First Bedroom

When you finally move into your college apartment, you have to fill that first bedroom with things that you need on a day-to-day basis. If you’ve moved to a new town to go to school, you may have to entirely stock the apartment from scratch. Here’s a checklist to help keep track of the essentials you’ll need for your first bedroom.

1. Alarm Clock

If you aren’t an early riser, an alarm clock will be essential for your first bedroom. Getting up early is better than rushing for the classroom in the mornings because you were late. Alarm clocks are really cheap, and if you’re pinching pennies you can even purchase a clock radio so you can have music to listen to.

2. Bedding

Things like pillows, pillow cases, sheets and blankets are important. If your bed is one of those small, hard beds, a bed pad will make it softer and more comfortable. Try to save a much space and money as possible by buying only a few sheets, pillows and blankets.

3. Chest of Drawers or Plastic Storage Tubs

You might not have much space in a closet, if you have one. A chest of drawers or bureau will be a good option for helping to keep your clothes organized. Another option is to buy plastic storage tubs if you’re not worrying about having everything in the room “match.” They tend be easier to transport, and they save space.

4. Area Rugs

If you have a wood floor in your bedroom, you should consider area rugs. Having a rug can protect your floor from spills that might permanently damage a hardwood floor. Rugs can keep you from slipping and falling on a slick floor. They give the place a home-like feeling. Even if your first bedroom has carpeting, you might consider rugs for any high-traffic areas, to ensure that a nasty spill won’t cause you to lose your security deposit.

5. Carpet Cleaners

Having a carpet cleaner is a good idea. It can be a vacuum cleaner if you can afford it, or a battery operated carpet cleaner. You can also use a non-electric carpet sweeper. Electric carpet sweepers often have a rechargeable battery. One should be enough to last you through an entire year at college.

6. Mirror

You will need a mirror in your first bedroom. A mirror is important for grooming. A full or half length mirror on your door will be sufficient.

7. Desk

A desk is an essential to have in your first bedroom. You can do homework on your desk, or you can set a computer on it if you have one. A smaller desk with drawers will be ideal. You can organize notebooks and textbooks in desk drawers. Don’t forget to pick out a comfortable chair to go with it.

Getting the things that you will need for your first bedroom in a college apartment is easier once you know what the essentials are. Use this checklist to help you get your bedroom organized and ready for your first year of college.