Organizing for the Dorm
Are you feeling overwhelmed at the thought of helping your child get organized and packed for college? Here are three focus areas I would encourage you to consider to make the process smoother for you and your college-bound child.
Know Your Child
Know the Dorm
Know Your Resources
Know Your Child
Everyone is unique and your child/student/young adult needs their space to reflect their personality, style and organizing requirements. Some kids might want to bring everything from their room, while others think all they need is their video games. Understand what’s important to your child in terms of how their space feels and functions. But also help them prepare for contingencies.
If your child has not been the one to select, place, maintain and replenish the decor and supplies they enjoy and use in their room as well as in other parts of the house, adding those items to their packing list may not be on their radar. Bring practical items such as scissors, sunscreen, post-it notes, and first aid supplies to their attention. Help them recognize these needs and pack accordingly. Also, think about items they might not need year-round but could be sent later or picked up during a visit home.
Know the Dorm
Familiarize yourselves with the specifics of the dorm, apartment or house your child will be moving into. Start by checking the university’s website for lists of recommended items to bring as well as those that are prohibited. Another valuable resource is YouTube, where many current college students share their experiences, tips, and what they wish they had or hadn’t brought.
These videos often provide insights specific to the college and dorm your child will be staying in. They can highlight important details like whether the dorm has air conditioning, carpet, shared bathrooms, and other specifics that can influence what your child should pack.
Know Your Resources
Because over-packing can be just as problematic as under-packing, think about how you will get things to and from the dorm after move-in day. This includes understanding your capacity to send additional items later, either through shipping or during visits. Knowing what’s feasible for your family in terms of time and money will help you plan effectively.
Helpful Items
Vacuum Bags: Use vacuum bags to compress clothes and bedding, making it easier to fit everything into one carload.They will also allow for easier storage of seasonal or infrequently used items.
Long Charging Cables: Invest in extra-long charging cables for shared study spaces and classrooms.
Power Banks: Ensure your child has power banks for their electronics as much of their schoolwork may be digital.
Noise-Canceling Headphones: These are great for creating a quiet study environment and enhancing roommate relations.
Packing for college can be a daunting task, but with these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to help your child transition smoothly. If you find you need additional help, don’t hesitate to reach out. We love working with youth of all ages. We offer onsite organizing in the Louisville, KY area and Virtual Organizing for those in other regions.
Pinky Jackson is an Organizing Expert and Decluttering Specialist. She and her team organize homes, offices and small businesses in the Louisville, KY region. They also do virtual organizing for those who prefer to work online. For more information about Pinky’s pricing & services or to schedule your free assessment, go to pinkyjackson.com
