DON'T OVERLOOK THESE DORM ROOM ESSENTIALSYour Southern Minnesota college freshman can't wait to bolt from home and begin to enjoy independent dorm life. But in preparing for college move-in day, he or she probably hasn't given any thought to those many "extras" needed to make that spartan room more livable.
Before leaving for school, a trip to the local hardware store often is essential to stock up on some very important, yet often overlooked items.
Featured in the photo are just a few of the items we have on sale through August 31, 2015.
In addition to the computer, CD player and mini-fridge, try making room in the car for the following:
Test-Worthy Tools
- A hammer and a box of nails or drywall anchors make hanging pictures and calendars on the walls easier. Double-sided tape or poster putty makes removal of posters from walls less damaging.
- A flashlight and multiple packs of batteries come in handy if dorm electricity goes out. Extra batteries can also be used for all those extra electronics.
- Standard or cordless screwdrivers make putting together furniture easier and help bookshelves and nightstands stay sturdy.
- Extension cords and multi-outlet surge protectors are a must. Not only do they help expand room layout possibilities, but they also help protect valuable electronics, like computers.
- A 25-foot extension phone cord allows the phone to be placed anywhere in the room.
- Electrical wiring, extra cables and splitters are essential for multiple high-tech systems in a room like the stereo, TV, DVD player, computer and video game console.
Smart Storage
- Shelf boards and brackets expand storage capabilities and make a small space look larger. Use them to hold books, picture frames and CDs.
- Large plastic storage containers that fit discreetly underneath the bed are perfect for stowing away clothing and extra blankets.
A-Plus Appliances
- Many hardware stores carry small coffee makers, toaster ovens and small microwaves for when hunger strikes during those late-night study sessions.
- A small desktop or standing fan helps cool off a tiny dorm room.
- For quick pickup of dry spills, a small cordless handvac that can be conveniently stored against the wall and out of sight does the dirty work.
- A small reading lamp and extra light bulbs give eyes a break from overhead florescent dorm lighting. For a fun twist, pack some colored light bulbs.
Extra Credit
- A long mirror visually makes a small room look bigger.
- A dry erase board is great for hanging outside on a dorm room door so friends can leave messages. A corkboard also works as a place for posting photos of family and friends, class schedules and notes.
- A stepstool makes it easier to reach high shelves in typically tiny dorm closets.
D&G Ace - 1417 1st Ave. SW, Austin, MN
Cannon Falls Ace - 21265 County 24 Blvd, Cannon Falls, MN
Dodge Center Ace - 20 Airport Road N, Dodge Center
Faribault Ace Hardware - 421 2nd Ave. NW, Faribault, MN
Jackson Ace Hardware - 916 Highway 71 N, Jackson, MN
Luverne Ace Hardware - 210 E. Lincoln St., Luverne, MN
McCabes Ace Hardware - 1200 Main Street E., Sleepy Eye, MN
Retzlaff's Ace Hardware - 21 N. Minnestoa Ave, New Ulm, MN
Rushford MN Ace Hardware Store - 402 S. Mill St, Rushford, MN
St. Charles Ace Hardware - 1313 Whitewater Ave., St. Charles, MN
Schwalbach Hardware - 193 9th St., Windom, MN
Schwalbach Hardware - 1131 Oxford St., Worthington, MN