Being in college means freedom, independence and responsibility. Whether you live in a dorm or an apartment, keeping your place clean and your clothes fresh can make a huge difference in your comfort, health and everyday routine. Here’s a quick guide to help you master the basics of laundry and cleaning:
Dorm life: small space, big impact
You should be tidying up your space daily. The little things can go a long way. Make your bed each morning — it makes the room look neater almost instantly. Put clothes either in a hamper or basket rather than on the floor. Put your trash in a trash can; this seems very simple, but trash can build up in a small space quickly.
Try to do some cleaning weekly. Vacuum or sweep your floor once a week to get rid of dust, hair and anything else that might be on those dorm floors. Empty your trash and recycling; avoid letting it pile up or you will never want to take it out. Clean shared items (like a mini fridge or microwave) when necessary.
Here are some dorm laundry basics. Separate lights and darks to avoid colors bleeding onto other clothes. Do not overload the washer — clothes need room to move and be washed thoroughly. Drying tip: remove clothes quickly after drying to avoid wrinkles and the smell of mildew.
College apartments: stepping up the responsibility
Attempt to keep common areas clean. Discuss responsibilities with your roommates, like dishes, trash, sweeping and living room. Do a quick wipe-down of kitchen counters after cooking to prevent bugs. Mop or sweep floors every couple of weeks at least in kitchens and living spaces.
Always take care of your bathroom. Scrub the toilet and sink every one to two weeks; don’t wait for it to be gross. Keep extra toilet paper, hand soap and cleaning supplies on hand; you never know when you will run out and need more.
Learn more about laundry and what works best for you. Wash towels every three to four uses, and bed sheets at least every two weeks. Clean the lint trap in the dryer every time. It makes drying faster and safer.
Quick tips for both dorms and apartments
There are some important supplies to keep on hand. All-purpose cleaner, disinfecting wipes, dish soap, laundry detergent, sponges and trash bags are all important. Don’t procrastinate when it comes to your cleaning. Ten minutes of cleaning a day beats two hours later. Clean rooms mean less stress and more focus.
A little routine can go a long way for you. By staying on top of your cleaning and laundry, you will have a happier living space and set yourself up with life skills that will stick with you post-college.
This article was originally published in the Housing & Living Guide, an IDS special publication.
