Starting college is a fun, exciting experience. In between figuring out your class schedule and extracurriculars, smaller tasks require your attention. One of them includes organizing your dorm!
Most dorms are small and often shared between two or more people, so it can be a challenge knowing how to maximize storage and space. To help, we at Noah’s Ark Self Storage have compiled a list of tips to help you get started.
Loft Beds
If you’re planning on sharing your dorm with a roommate, then bunk beds are a no-brainer. They get the job done and save you a significant amount of space.
But if you or your roommate are looking for more privacy, then another great alternative are loft beds!
A loft bed is basically a bunk-bed but with no bottom bed. You can use the space beneath the top bunk for anything you want, but many college students like to set up a desk or couch. And for those that prefer to study on their bed, you could also use that extra space as a designated “kitchen” area.
Most university dorms already come with loft or bunk beds, so take advantage by lofting your bed.
Roll or Hang Up Your Clothes
If your dorm comes with a dresser, then there’s a chance it doesn’t also come with a closet. In that case, to make full use of your dresser, try rolling, not folding your clothes. This is a common travel hack that helps you save space in your suitcase, but it’s also pretty useful for everyday clothing.
There are plenty of how-to videos out there, but to put it simply, all you need to do is lay out your clothing on a flat surface, fold it into a square, then roll it into a burrito!
If you find you have extra space in your dresser, then you can use that to store extra items like shoes or books.
If your dorm only comes with a closet, though, you’ll need to simply hang your clothes.
But instead of using basic plastic hangers, consider buying space-saving hangers.
Rather than hanging clothes horizontally like you would with regular hangers, these hold around 5-7 pieces and then collapse into one long, vertical hanger.
Wall Storage
Setting up a shelf might seem a bit tedious, but it’s worth it.
For example, instead of buying a bedside table for your clock or phone, consider a bedside shelf. It serves the exact same purpose but saves you a bit more floor space.
If you use jewelry, consider a hanging organizer. This way, you won’t need to use a horizontal rack that needs to be placed onto a flat surface.
Also, just a few hooks near the door for coats and bags can save a surprising amount of floor space as well!
Be sure to bear in mind your dorm’s policies on wall hangings. You don’t want to get fined for holes in the wall at the end of the semester.
Off-Site Storage
Many universities are located in big cities, which means the bigger the dorm the more expensive the rent. One way students can save is by storing their bulkier items, like winter clothes, in a small storage unit near campus. Sharing a unit with your roommate could save both of you even more money as well!
Self storage is also great for students that plan to study abroad for a semester or take an internship during the summer. Instead of moving all your things back to your parents during that time, finding a storage unit is a convenient option, especially for students whose families live out of state.
If you find yourself needing more room even with these tips, then Noah’s Ark Self Storage would be happy to help! Contact us today to discuss units that will make your college life a little easier!
