Setting up College Students in Homes Away from Home
Posted by Rachel Crippin Clark on 7th Aug 2024
Was it so long ago that back-to-school shopping meant hunting for the perfect lunch box or pencil case? For the millions of parents getting ready to send their kids off to college, we at TRINITY know back-to-school shopping can take on a whole new meaning – and set of emotions.
Whether yours is heading to a dorm for the first time or is an older student moving to an apartment, setting up a home away from home can be daunting. Of course, you’ll want to give them the comforts of home. But they’ll also want to honor their own style and taste. Space will almost certainly be a challenge. And no one wants to break the bank.
Sure, you may want to start by stocking up on tissues and extra patience. But to help you prepare for this momentous task, we’ve got some more specific tips, solutions and even a sale on some of our most popular items for small spaces.
Slow Your Roll
Before you start impulse buying, take some time to gather the specifics of your child’s living situation. Finding out the exact dimensions of their dorm room, closet, hanging space, shelves and cabinets will go a long way in determining what’s actually needed. Two other key areas to ask about? 1) Where are laundry facilities, and how will your student get their piles of laundry there and back? 2) If shared bathrooms are involved, what storage is provided and what room is available for other solutions such as under sink organizers or free standing shelving?
Be Creative
No one ever said dorm rooms – or first apartments – are spacious. But getting creative with the space you have can go a long way. Don’t rule out any opportunities for maximizing space, whether it’s lofted beds, underbed storage, or over-the-door hanging organizers. Look for storage solutions with built-in perks like adjustable shelves or hooks on the side. For those who will be cooking, there are now many multi-function items that can cut down on the number of appliances needed.
Strategize in How to Get It There
Gone are the days when college move-ins were limited to as much as you could pack in your car and lug inside in one day. You can now bring items with you, buy online in advance and pick up where you’re going, or just have them shipped directly to their new abode. Tip: We at TRINITY ship for free in the contiguous United States and are proud of our easy assembly and 3-D interactive instructions.
Consider Renter’s Insurance
No one wants to think anything will go wrong, but renter’s insurance typically covers theft and personal property damage resulting from fires or water leaks. Some leasing companies may even require it. Stand-alone plans are available for college students, or parents can add coverage through their homeowners insurance.
Solutions College Students Will Love
Our TRINITY BASICS® line features products at entry-level pricing…but still with the quality we’re known for. A few of our top picks for college students?
Don’t let the name fool you. This flexible, streamlined cart works equally well in dorm rooms, bedrooms, laundry rooms and more – wherever you need a small workspace or flexible storage. (This year’s microwave stand or bookshelf might be next year’s nightstand or coffee station.) The middle shelf is adjustable to suit their needs.
This no-nonsense laundry organizer can be tucked under hanging clothes in a closet or is sleek enough to stay out in the open. Students can toss lights and darks in separate bags throughout the week. Then when it’s laundry time, they just slip a bag off the holder and carry it by the handles to wherever they do laundry.
Flexibility is key. This popular shoe rack expands from 24 to 44 inches wide. It’s also stackable to hold additional shoes. This rack works equally well in closets or out in the open, and features easy, no-tool assembly.
These small but mighty shelving racks can accommodate a wide range of storage needs (up to 450-lb weight capacity!). The sleek, powder-coated black color works well anywhere. Easy, no-tool assembly, and the middle shelf is also adjustable in 1-inch increments.
Shop TRINITY’s back-to-school sale here!