Organizing Dorm and Apartment Living for College Students
Moving into a college dorm or apartment leaves students working with limited space. That doesn’t mean you should navigate college life in a tight room. With helpful tips and a spark of creativity, you’ll use dorm room storage to transform your small dorm or apartment into a comforting home for the school year. Our team at Right Move Storage will share dorm storage ideas to help you make the most of small dorms or apartments.
Invest in Multifunctional Dorm Furniture
Most dorms already come with some furnishings, such as beds, dressers, and desks. For the dorm room furniture you bring in, focus on multifunctional pieces. Each piece of multifunctional furniture can help limit the amount of furniture you get and yield long-term savings. The less furniture you need to bring in, the more space you keep free. Instead of a coffee table or extra chairs, opt for an ottoman that serves as a storage bin.
Maximize Dorm Under Bed Storage
If you’re looking for ways to establish dorm room organizations, look under your bed! Your dorm bed will often have space underneath or can be adjusted. This space is prime real estate to keep boxes, bins, and a dresser. Keep a foldout futon or some sleeping bags under the bed if you plan to have guests over during the school year.
Organize Your Dorm Room Desk
Another creative way to maximize space in your dorm or apartment is to have an organized desk. There are plenty of practical methods to establish proper desk organization. Keep stationery and papers in desk drawer organizers. Use a desk hutch to store textbooks, electronics, and a pencil holder.
Several benefits come with organizing and decluttering your dorm room desk. Dorm desk organization can help you improve your mood, sharpen your focus, and develop a willingness to complete tasks.
Make Space in Your Closet
Knowing how to maximize your closet makes a world of difference in a small dorm or apartment. Use wire or thin felt hangers instead of bulky wood or plastic hangers. A hanging closet organizer can be placed on the door to keep shoes, jeans, and sweaters. Leave enough room for the laundry hamper to have a place to call home.
Utilize Vertical Space
When you move into your dorm or apartment and see blank walls, think vertically! In small dorms or apartments, vertical space will be your best friend. With a series of hanging shelves and containers, you’ll find ways to keep your loose belongings secure you wouldn’t have considered otherwise. Some of the best ways to use vertical space in your dorm include:
- Command strips and hooks
- Over-the-door hangers
- Hanging pegboard
- Shower cubbies
- Stackable bins
Have a Rolling Cart Handy
One item students use for their dorms is a rolling cart. Rolling carts are a versatile tool to make space in your dorm or apartment. Use one as a bedside table, which provides additional shelving for small books and an alarm clock. These handy carts are also great for bathroom toiletries and grooming products.
Create a Cleaning Schedule
Your dorm or apartment won’t clean itself. Make cleaning your dorm or apartment a part of your daily routine. Keep counters and desktops clear of clutter. When you’re done using an item, put it back in a designated area. Don’t forget to vacuum and sweep your floors on a regular basis. We recommend you set aside time on the weekend for more time-consuming cleaning, such as bathroom scrubbing.
Keep Loose Items in Labeled Storage Bins
As you gather your belongings, it’s great to have several storage bins with lids. These containers help you stay organized and help shield your belongings from dust or debris. Get all your packing supplies ahead of time to avoid last-minute scrambling.
We recommend stackable plastic bins that let you see into each container without opening the lid. Use labels on each storage bin to identify what’s inside each container. For more information on how to streamline your packing process, visit our storage tips page today!
Invest in Outside Dorm Storage
It’s all but a given that not everything you own will fit in a dorm or apartment. Student storage can provide you with the room you need throughout your collegiate career. Clearing our dorm or apartment space is one of the main reasons individuals rent storage. The best self storage will offer you numerous storage unit sizes and types to choose from, all at affordable month-to-month rates.
Is this your first time renting self storage? Read our first-time renter’s guide to learn how to maximize your initial storage experience.
Get Top-Notch College Storage at Right Move Storage
Are you looking for the best storage for students? Turn to Right Move Storage. Our student storage comes in many small, medium, and large unit sizes to clear out space in your dorm or apartment. With flexible monthly leases, you can keep your storage unit even when you’re away or have an internship over the summer.
Contact our team or find your nearest Right Move Storage location to rent or reserve your student storage unit online!