Posted on: Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Ideas for furnishing that first college dorm room
By Joan Brunskill
Associated Press
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College kids are into patterns, says Mona Williams, of The Container Store.
Photos from AP
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SoundMaster White 360 Sphere Speaker System plays tunes and recharges your MP3 player, too.
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What are some top picks for students looking to set up their first dorm rooms? A sample from major retailers:
START A PATTERN
"Students want functional stuff, but they're very into design," says Mona Williams, The Container Store's vice president of buying. Graphic patterns are playing well, she says. Her picks:
Fabric tote boxes. "This item gives you great function as storage, while it also gives you a great design element." Rococo and Flora patterned fabric tote boxes ($12.99 to $19.99), have lids with zippered closures plus Velcro flaps. Boxes are made of heavy fabric over a metal frame; have sturdy handles and label holder, and fold flat when not in use.
Bulletin boards. "We have a new geometric message board, using recycled materials, with bright graphic design. It makes a bold splash of color; it's functional art on your wall." Geometric message board ($19.99) includes a wall-mounting hanger.
TECHNOLOGY, OF COURSE
Bed Bath & Beyond spokeswoman Catherine Gentile suggests the SoundMaster White 360 Sphere Speaker System ($49.99). You can connect your MP3 player, CD player or PC to this circular speaker system: The docking port will keep your MP3 player fully charged and in sync with your computer. Also includes a blue LED ring that glows in the dark and will illuminate your entire docking system.
BETWEEN CLASSES, SLEEP
Mites out! spray ($19.99 and $39.99), described as a "natural" cleansing treatment against dust mites and their allergens found on bedding, upholstery or carpets is a popular seller this year, says spokeswoman Carroll Kappenhagen, of New York's Gracious Home.
Not new this year but described as a consistent best-seller is the twin-size AeroBed All-Nighter with duffel bag, $59.99. It inflates in 60 seconds and deflates in less.
MAKE IT ALL FIT
To maximize space that a freshman probably wouldn't know: There's an over-the-door organizer for everything; don't leave a door unused and use bed lifts to gain extra inches, Gentile suggests.
