If you've ever moved yourself or a loved one into a college dorm, you'll know the process isn't exactly stress-free. Packing can take ages, space is often limited, and it's hard to know exactly what you'll need until you arrive, and get a better sense of the shoebox-like space you'll be living in for the academic year. And though dorm checklists exist by the dozen, they're all a bit different, and often include things you'll probably never use – anyone else show up for their first year with an ironing board?
Luckily for this year's new starters (and supportive friends and family), moving into the dorms won't be quite so hard. IKEA just released five specially curated College Starter Kits, and they all come out to under $100. The Swedish superstore's affordable prices and simple, sleek designs mean you won't have to scramble at the last minute for a stylish dorm that feels just like home. And if you aren't moving into a dorm room, but need to refresh your home essentials, the kits are just as handy. Here's what's included inside.
'There are a lot of decisions students face when planning and heading away from home for college. The Starter Boxes were designed to make it easy for students who don’t have the time to shop for all the essentials needed to make their new home away from home function smoothly. These boxes provide everything you need to get started and make college life a little bit easier,' says Paul Anderson, commercial activities and events leader at IKEA US.
An inside look into IKEA's College Starter Kits
Whether you're shopping for freshman year, need to stock up on kitchen equipment, or simply need an essentials boost before moving into a new apartment, chances are IKEA's boxes have everything you'll need. And though the company's offering individual boxes for each area of the home (or, in most cases, room), it's also got a comprehensive Dorm Essential Starter Box for $99.99.
This box includes a can opener, scissors, a microwave lid, food containers, bowls, two plate sets in different sizes, glass cups, a mug, a flatware set, a bedspread, a pillow, four washcloths, a bath towel and hand towel, hanging hooks for over the door, a basket, a lint roller, a dustpan and brush, a laundry bag, a shopping bag, two power strips, microfiber cloths, a wireless charger, a storage case, an adapter plug and, of course, the plastic storage box it all comes in. If only my move-in were this simple.
Most of the contents stick to a simple, neutral color scheme, so you can focus all the rest of your attention on making the design side shine.
The next box won't cover all the college essentials, but it's a handy top-up for second-year students (or those who've already started their college shopping). With many of the items included in the Dorm Essential Starter Kit, the Utility Essentials Starter Box is 'designed for the busy college student.' It also packs a trash can, toilet brush, shoe bag and floor lamp, as well as two LED light bulbs.
Another option is the Bed & Bath Essentials Starter Box, which IKEA says will lead to 'stress-free mornings and peaceful nights' in the dorm – and no, that doesn't have to be an oxymoron. Though a pared-down (and cheaper) version of the comprehensive essentials box, this one also includes a shower curtain and rings, a soap dispenser, wall hooks, and a bathmat. A handy kickstart for any apartment move-in too, this box is a winner.
If you're lucky enough to have a kitchen in your residence hall, then it might be wise to stock up on some culinary must-haves. And IKEA says this selection, the Cooking & Eating Essentials Starter Box, will let you 'carve out your place as the campus chef.' If you're living in a shared room with no kitchen, this is almost certainly overdoing it, but it's a great choice for someone moving into a dorm suite or shared apartment.
With pieces you'll keep for quite some time, like the five-piece cookware set and frying pan, and others you'll be alright to discard after some time, like the dish brush and sponges, this kit is great for anyone looking to spend a little less time in the dining hall.
The last box is a good choice for just about everyone – especially college students' personal shoppers. The Study Snack Starter Box includes all the late-night (or move-in-stress-induced) snacks you'll need.
As a seasoned dorm resident, IKEA's starter kits are pretty spot on. While you or your loved one might not use every item in the box, they'll be well-equipped for whatever comes their way – and you'll be saving loads at the same time.
