College move-in day is almost here, and with it comes the conundrum of how to organize a dorm room. Dorm rooms are notoriously small spaces, and dorm room closets are even smaller. Still, this is the space you (or your college-bound kid) will call home for the next year. It’s essential that it feels welcoming and sparks joy.
While it’s a challenging space, you can make a dorm room feel not only tidy and comfortable but like a sanctuary away from the bustle of classes and exams. In fact, Marie Kondo’s career began with organizing friends’ dorm rooms while she was still at university! These tips, based on her KonMari Method™, will help you start this new chapter on a joy-sparking note.
1. Tidy and Organize Before Move-In Day
The end of summer is the perfect time for college-bound young adults to complete a personal tidying festival. By discarding what doesn’t spark joy before moving into a new space, you’ll enter knowing that every item in your boxes fills you with gratitude.
Start by sorting through your belongings and deciding what you truly need and love. Moving with only the essentials will make the process smoother and ensure that your new space is clutter-free from day one. Remember, the goal is to surround yourself with items that bring joy, making your dorm room a positive and inviting environment.
2. Divide by Category
Because your dorm room closet offers limited space, it can help to visualize your ideal set-up before unpacking. Will you need to use one area for pantry goods and a dorm room refrigerator? Is there a convenient place for a shoe rack and your shower caddy? Where will you store cleaning supplies, such as a broom and dustpan?
If you’re struggling to visualize, put pen to paper. Sketch a few different layouts until you find the fit that feels right. Organizing by category ensures that every item has a designated place, making it easier to maintain order throughout the school year.
3. When in Doubt, Fold
If you carry only one piece of Marie Kondo’s advice into your new dorm room and college life, it’s this: Fold clothing. Dorm room closets are notoriously tiny, and in all likelihood, you’ll need to use yours to store other items besides clothing, such as school supplies, a dorm room fridge, sheets and bedding—the list goes on.
Fortunately, most dorm rooms also come with a dresser! Folding and storing clothing the KonMari way will save space, keep favorite items tidy and organized, and make it a joy to get dressed each day. By folding clothes neatly, you can maximize drawer space and keep your wardrobe easily accessible.
4. Make the Most of Vertical Space
Take advantage of every inch of space in your closet by thinking vertically as well as horizontally. Place items you’ll use the least at the top of the closet—such as seasonal bedding—then work your way down.
Marie recommends using hikadashi boxes or other storage containers to organize like items together, making them easy to find. And don’t forget to label boxes so you can tell which are which without pulling out a step ladder. Utilizing vertical space effectively allows you to store more without overcrowding your room, maintaining a clean and organized living space.
5. Use That Underbed Space
Underbed storage is one of the most overlooked areas in dorm rooms. While you shouldn’t use it as a place to store unwanted items out of sight (if they don’t spark joy, let them go!), this hidden area is an ideal spot for a few extra clothing drawers or for storing bulk bathroom supplies.
There are many storage solutions specifically designed for use under the bed, including soft bins, sliding drawers, and bed risers to add some extra height. By making the most of this space, you can keep essential items close at hand without cluttering your living area.
Start Your College Journey with Spark Joy in MI
Ready to make your dorm room a joy-sparking sanctuary? At Spark Joy in MI, we specialize in transforming small spaces into organized, welcoming homes. Our college move-in service is designed to help you start the school year on the right foot, with a dorm room that feels like home.
Book your college move-in service with Spark Joy in MI today and let us help you create a space that inspires and supports you throughout your college journey!
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