I’ve been receiving lots of calls from clients lately asking for help not just to manage their own clutter but their spouses and children’s too. Now is the time when all kids are heading back to school or off to college and everyone is trying to organize! I have to admit, I love shopping for college students, or even for myself in the Bed Bath and Beyond college section. You just never know what perfect thing you might find!
In my business, I am constantly shopping for clients and while I am out there I am always on the lookout for organizational solutions for small living spaces, or spaces without closets or storage, which usually applies to most college dorm rooms. My expertise came from working at The Container Store years ago as they are the experts on organizing college dorm rooms. I’ve helped many college students and their parents learn how to spot what they need and what is just a waste of money. However, while you are shopping, know that its okay to over purchase, to take it home, see how it all works together then simply return what you don’t need. I know your time is limited and you can feel overwhelmed, but let me guide you on how to organize a dorm room with good Feng Shui.
Sharing a room with a stranger is not the easiest thing to do, even the ones you marry.
You have different personalities, taste and organizational styles. Talking to your college student about how to embrace the differences with their roommates will actually prepare them for marriage!
So, let’s get started:
1) Take only the things you love and need.
Help your college student by making piles of things they love and need. Remind them that this is a time for a fresh start, so it is okay to leave all the stuff from friends and high school behind. Encourage them to review each item they are packing up, from decor to clothes. Have they used it in the last 3 months? Do they love it? Will they actually wear it? Does it serve a purpose? Be clear that they don’t need to take everything right now as they will be back around the holidays.
2) Bunkbeds
You’ve heard me preach bunk beds are a no, no in feng shui. With limited space in dorms and many new styles with desks underneath the bed you may have no choice. If that is the case, go through your cosmetic bag or head to the craft store and pick up a small compact mirror. You will want to place this mirror under the mattress with the mirror facing down. This will repel any negative energy coming from the electronics underneath the bed or the energy of the person on the bottom bunk. Let me clarify, do not make this obvious or tell everyone what you are doing. Just explain to your child that this will help them sleep and not take on any negative energy underneath them.
A little extra organization on the side of your bed.
Bunk Bed Organization from the Container Store
3) Under the bed storage containers are a must
This is a the rare time I suggest getting underbed containers, but space is limited! So, if your student has space under their bed this is the best spot to keep extra towels, sheets or clothes as these items have no energy that will impact their sleep. Plus these boxes will benefit you down the road.
Long under the bed boxes are ideal as the pull out easily and open on both sides.
Under the Bed Storage Containers from the Container Store
Under the Bed Wooden Risers: a great way to create more space under the bed
Bed Risers from the Container Store
4) Closet essentials
With very little closet space, here are my favorite organizing tools that can work in any closet (even yours!).
Dublet Adjustable Closet Rod Expander by Umbra®from The Container Store is ideal for any small closet. The average closet space in a dorm is 3-5ft, with this double adjustable hanging rod you will create more room for clothes.
Doublet Adjustable Closet Rod from the Container Store
Little Black Dress Hanging Jewelry Organizer by Umbra®: Ideal for your Fashionista jewelry girl. This is great for the girl who loves to accessorize (note: I don’t recommend this for high-end jewelry for safety reasons).
Chrome Classico Accessory Hook: Ideal for organizing belts
Accessory Hook from the Container Store
5) Wall Decor
Most dorms don’t allow you to use nails, so the best tools are command hooks. Ideal for pictures, posters, coats and bag hooks… you name it command hooks are ideal for any dorm room.
Command Hooks from the Container Store
6) Bathroom Organization:
Flexible Shower Tote
Flex Shower Tote from the Container Store
Style Station Organizer: ideal for the gal who uses multiple hair style tools.
Style Station from the Container Store
These are the basic essentials I recommend to most of my clients. Keep in my mind rooms are different and students have different organizing styles. This is a time for you to be flexible. The key is to remind them not to take everything with them, they will be home on the holidays and you will probably visit them for a parents weekend.
I’m sure you noticed some of these items may be helpful in your space too! So what’s your biggest struggle with clutter? Or what is your favorite organization solution? Please leave a comment below.
If you feel overwhelmed, book a Feng Shui consultation and let me help you get organized and energized. Click here to set up a complimentary 15 minute consultation to chat with me about your home. Once you fill out the application you will receive an email to schedule your complimentary session.
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