College Apartment Essentials
When moving into my college apartment, I had no idea what things would or would not be deemed “essential.”
I researched online and asked friends, yet I still did not have everything I needed when moving into my college apartment. Granted, it is trial and error, but here are few items that I highly recommend getting before moving into your new college home.
Clothes drying rack
As a college girl who lives in athleisure clothes, a drying rack is a must-have (since most of my wardrobe does not go in the dryer.) After my first laundry day without one, I had clothes hanging from every doorknob and stretched over chairs, leaving my apartment a complete mess. I knew I needed to invest in a good drying rack ASAP.
2. Space heater
Living with roommates, you will most likely disagree on the thermostat temperature at one point or another. During my freshman year, I ordered a space heater to keep at my desk for warmth, and I still use it religiously!
3. Step stool
At barely 5’1, reaching kitchen cabinets often proves to be an issue. Not only do I use it in my kitchen, but it allows me to reach higher shelves in my closet. I use my step stool every day. I would highly recommend getting one that is durable and stored easily.
4. Steamer
Having an iron and ironing board is not practical when you are limited in space. Hand-held steamers are easy to use and small to store when you do not need them. Having a steamer on hand has been a lifesaver for me. Another perk is that I do not have to worry about burning through delicate fabrics.
5. Chip clips and reusable containers
The last thing you want to deal with in your apartment is bugs and ants from leaving food unsealed. I always have chip clips on hand to properly seal my snacks. Additionally, I recommend investing in a set of nice, reusable containers. Since I cook meals for myself, I tend to have leftovers quite often. Also, being busy and on the go, I pack a lot of my meals in my backpack. In my opinion, splurging on a more durable set of containers is worth the money-- the last thing you want is a mess in your backpack from a leaky container.
6. Full-length mirror
Whether you need a cute mirror pic or want to check your whole outfit, a full-length mirror always comes in handy. If you are not allowed to hang a mirror on the wall, I recommend purchasing a mirror that will hang on the back of the door to free up floor space.
7. Coffee Machine
I do not think I could survive early morning classes or late-night study sessions without coffee to keep me caffeinated. Although I love Starbucks like most college students, I am on a tight budget. Investing in a good coffee machine will ultimately aid you in saving money in the long run without having to give up your caffeine fix.
There is no “one size fits all” for what items you deem essential for your apartment. However, I hope these ideas will be beneficial for you as you prepare to move into your new home for the semester.
Happy shopping and…
Be Well, Auburn.
Writer
Born and raised in the small town of Clanton, Alabama, Lydia grew up eating peaches and cheering on the Auburn Tigers. Lydia’s parents are Auburn alumni, and they claim they began “brainwashing” her and her twin into attending Auburn University at an early age.
Lydia is a junior studying Business Marketing. Upon graduation, she hopes to live somewhere in the beloved south and work in the jewelry industry.
When she is not working or attending class, you can find her taking long power walks around Auburn, attending a workout class, or watching Wheel of Fortune.
Her favorite things include Starbucks, Hokas, her family, and her Apple Watch. Lydia’s goal for her remaining years at Auburn University is to continue growing as a person so she can become the best version of herself and serve those around her to the best of her ability.
