Going away to college can be quite liberating, until your dorm room slowly starts to become a pigsty and you have flashbacks of your mom yelling at you to clean your room. You’d think keeping a small space clean would be easy, but unfortunately, that’s not the case. We’ve rounded up 10 cleaning hacks to help you keep your dorm cleaner than it’s ever been.
1. Use dryer sheets as air fresheners
Yes, you read that right! Most dorms don’t allow candles anyway. And who wants to spend that much money on Febreeze? You can attach these dryer sheets to your AC unit or in front of an air vent, and you’ll get that fresh laundry smell without even having to do laundry. It’s easy and fast!
2. Donate or throw away things regularly
Start by asking yourself a few of the above questions. Monthly cleanings like this will help cut down on weekly cleanings in the long run.
3. Always keep a hamper close by
For the most part, messy rooms are comprised of dirty (and sometimes even clean) clothes on the floor. Avoid this by always keeping a hamper or laundry bag in reach.
4. DIY a magnetic board for your makeup
To free up more space on your dresser, hang this on the wall instead of propping it up. It keeps things neat and makes them easier to grab. You’ll never have to scramble through your makeup bag again!
5. Use a stackable organizer for your shoes
We all know how much room shoes take up, so instead buy a stackable organizer and stash them under your bed (if space allows, of course).
6. Follow a cleaning schedule
The secret to keeping your dorm nice and clean all semester long is to follow a cleaning schedule, like this one from Eyeliner Wings & Pretty Things. All you have to do is divide chores into daily, weekly and monthly duties for ultimate results.
7. Keep drawers organized with drawer separators
These drawer separators are the perfect hack to keep your undies and socks organized. Now you’ll spend less time rummaging around for the right pair.
8. Plastic shoe storage is perfect for holding snacks
By using a shoe organizer and storage rack, you’ll know right away when you need to stock up on something, and it’ll also free up some space.
9. Ask your parents to store your off-season items at home
Trust us. You WON’T be using your entire wardrobe at school. There’s no possible way you can fit all of your clothes, shoes and accessories neatly in such a small space.
10. DIY a hook rack
Hooks are perfect for hanging up scarves, hats, necklaces and other accessories. You can put these hook racks all over your room so instead of throwing things on the floor, you can just hang them up, which makes your room look instantly clean.