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DORM LIVING CAN BE QUITE CHALLENGING!

Most are small + simplistic. Imagine this dorm room has bare walls & floors and is just small enough to hold 2 twin size beds, 2 desks with a community bathroom down the hall.

What is the best way to prepare for dorm living?

It's just the opposite of life in your own home. Plus a room mate you've never met may be added to the equation.

 1, 2, 3 - SCREAM!!!

                .....     Are you over it? OK - it is what it is!

The following will help to decipher what types of bedding will work for those smaller beds.

~ BEDDING ~

There are so many choices to consider when purchasing bedding such as:

• Favorite colors or patterns - This is a personal choice and should be something you can live with atleast for the school year.
• Warmth needed - Is the school in a warm or cooler climate?  Are the rooms drafty?
• Comfort - This is where thread counts fall into play. The higher the thread count the softer the material is. If allergy prone, consider 100% cotton or hypoallergenic materials.
• Ease in making bed - A simple comforter/ duvet and pillow sham set is easiest to assemble.
• Sizing is important also - Be sure to determine exactly what size bed will be provided. Read on for more info on sizing:

• Standard size and easiest to outfit.
  

  TWIN XL (39" x 80" mattress)

• Has the longer mattress. But is very difficult to find bedding to fit. Choices are limited and prices more expensive.

Is it possible to use Twin Size bedding on a Twin XL mattress?

Yes, but, you should be aware of a few restrictions.

• A Standard Twin Size Comforter or Quilt (measuring 66" x 86" or larger)  will cover a standard Twin XL mattress, if:

• Pillow Shams are used and comforter is not folded under the pillows.
  

• If purchasing a twin size SET that includes a bedskirt, keep in mind, a Twin size bedskirt will not completely cover sides of foundation nearest headboard.
  

• A Twin XL Fitted Sheet is needed - and - a Twin XL Bedskirt is optional!

Which options do I have regarding a bedskirt?

The area under the bed will certainly be used for storage. You make the decision to HIDE IT -or- FLAUNT IT!

• To HIDE IT, plan on substituting the twin size dust ruffle or bedskirt with a solid color, Twin XL bed skirt. Different heights of bedskirts are available. Though they may be harder to find, standard is 15", other heights are 18" and 21".
  

• To FLAUNT IT, purchase a comforter / pillow sham set only and expose your storage compartments.

What comes with a Twin XL sheet set? 

Careful, most Twin XL sheet sets combine a Twin XL fitted sheet with Twin size Flat Sheet and Standard Size Pillowcase. Always read the fine print, to confirm what you are getting or to save money, consider purchasing seperately.

~ PILLOWS ~

* Can be used for sleeping and propping up while studying or watching TV. Consider adding a back rest or bolster pillows (day bed style).

* Consider setting up the bed as a DAY BED with bolster pillows so  that it can be used for relaxing, socializing, studying, etc.

~ UNDER BED STORAGE IDEAS ~

• Remember, most dorms do not have dressers or chest of drawers. The area under the bed can be used to store anything from luggage to storage organizers which can be used to store smaller items.

• You can even increase the amount of storage space beneath by 5" to 6" by using bed risers to lift the bed.

~ COMPACT FRIDGE & MICROWAVE ~

1st check with college, find out restrictions. Check with roomate, these items can possibly be shared. Borrow -or- purchase 2nd hand.

~ ORGANIZER ACCESSORIES ~

• Book shelf - Hang shelves rather than purchasing a book shelf that takes up floor space

• Shoe Racks - Pocket style rack can hang behind closet door or use plastic storage bin under bed to hide shoes.

• Clothing Hangers - Use the vertical hangers that hold several shirts, skirts, pants, etc. on one hanger.
  

• Collapsible Hamper with carrying handles

• If you have a suitcase, don't store it empty - fill it and use that space!

• An organized closet will be a great benefit and there are lots of ways to organize. Be sure to use the door to hang larger items ... like your favorite jacket or a shoe organizer.
  

~ PERSONAL APPLIANCES  ~

• Oscillating Fan

• Hair Dryer, Flat Iron or Curling Irons

• Iron & Ironing Board

• Study Lamp -  use a floor lamp or clamp lamp rather than a table lamp

• Alarm Clock

• Personal Sized Coffee Pot

~ SEATING ~

• Ottomans (pick one that opens to hide storage area - also, these can sometimes double as table top)

• Bean Bags

• Collapsible / Folding Chair

• Desk Chair

• Large Floor Pillows

Since you can't do much to expand space ... use your vertical space when possible! If both room mates are agreeable, you may even want to consider doubling up the beds as bunk beds (if their design will allow it).

MAKE IT YOUR OWN, WHILE CONSIDERING THE PRIVACY OF YOUR ROOM MATE! ENJOY!

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