Decorating A Home Away From Home-The College Dorm Room

by Michele Cheplic | More from this Blogger

03 Aug 2006 01:00 PM

In 2005 the average college-bound student shopper spent $3,184 on supplies. That's according to a survey done by Myvesta, a nonprofit agency that counsels people in financial crisis. Personally, I was shocked by the statistic--$3000 is more than some people spend on tuition! I realize that college coeds want to make the most of their space (as limited as it may be) after all, dorm rooms are homes away from homes for many students. But, I know there is a way to spend less than $3000 to decorate any size dorm room. Here are a few tips:

Get Organized. Make a list. Go to different stores or surf the Web to get ideas and compare prices. Head to stores that have areas set aside with items specifically for college dorm rooms like Bed, Bath and Beyond (you can print out coupons for purchases here) and Target.

Investments. Some coeds may laugh off purchasing an item such as a coffee maker rationalizing that they can just grab a cup from Starbuck's on the way to class. But a week's worth of triple mocha lattes can put a major dent in anyone's wallet. Instead, invest in a four cup coffee pot which will run you about $20-$30. The same rationale can be made for food--the cafeteria isn't open all night, and who pulls an all-nighter without snacks. Prepare for some dorm-room cooking with the proper equipment. A $10 hot pot can make soup, fondue and canned stew. If your cooking skills are a bit more advanced, then invest in an Aroma 3-in-1 appliance (mini toaster oven, griddle and 4-cup coffeemaker) for $29.

As for a refrigerator--talk with your roommate. You may want to split the price of a mini-fridge ($70 - $140). Otherwise, many dorms rent small refrigerators (check with the school before buying).

Bed-in-a-Bag. This is the most economical way to get a bunch of bedding for one low price. Bed-in-a-Bag includes a top sheet, a fitted sheet, two pillowcases and a comforter. I saw a few at Target and K-Mart for $30. A word of warning: don't buy anything for your bed until you find out the size of your bed. Many dorm beds are extra long, so you might need to get extra-long sheets.

The Not So Basics. Every room needs a certain sparkle, a hint of your personality. Depending on how much your wallet can handle you can add a variety of personal touches. From décor-- beaded curtains will run about $15, chili pepper party lights about $18 and a traffic light about $35. If you want to turn your room into party central consider investing in a TV-DVD combo, which start at about $150 or a stereo system, which can run upwards of $500.

The key to saving big bucks is comparison-shopping. Never do all your shopping in one place. A store with a $30 coffee maker may also have a $10 desk organizer. Meanwhile, the store down the street may have a $15 desk organizer and $20 coffee maker. Scope out the stores first--then make your buys.

Learn more about Michele Cheplic

Michele Cheplic was born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii, but now lives in Wisconsin. Michele graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Journalism.

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