Congrats, you’ve secured a space at college and are moving out of home. Whether it’s campus dorm life, or an apartment or house share here are key essentials you need to here’s everything you need to take that first big step in style.
It’s an exciting time that is fraught with what-ifs.
You’ve earned a place at college, and you’re lucky enough to be moving away from home to study.
Here are seven key pieces to help settle you into your new space.
Between the sheets
Your bedding is one way to show off your personality to your new housemates.
But you might want to hold back on full all-black emo kid vibes or full-blown gendered blues or pinks, at least until you’ve settled.
Plump instead for the middle ground, for now.
This chalk stripe, 100 per cent cotton duvet set comprises a cover and two Oxford-style pillowcases and costs €45 for a double from Dun Elm.
Bathroom attire
You won't want your towels to get mixed up with your housemates.
This 100 per cent cotton pink striped bath towel will stand out from the crowd. It costs €8 from Dunnes Stores.
The chain also sells a natty leopard print option that comes in a black and white or a dun and black option for the same price.
Shower tools
If you have to use shared facilities, it’s likely there isn’t enough space in the bathroom to store all the housemates' shampoos, shower gels and other accoutrements.
A shower caddy is a very useful way of transporting your products to and from the bathroom and keeping them together.
This one from The Organised Store in Dundrum, D14 comes with suction pads that allow you to stick it to the tiled surround to allow you to position it at the optimum height for you.
The drainage holes allow water to escape before you step out of the shower. It costs €13,95.
Kitchen confidence
Ikea has created homes away from home for millions of students worldwide. And it starts with the best basic kitchen tools you need for setting up your first home.
Its kitchen essentials box, which includes selected cookware, dinnerware and utensils, is reduced to €55 instead of its usual €62.50, an offer that ends October 31st.
For students who spent more than €75, it is offering those going to college up to €20 off, if you can verify that you are a student. This deal runs until October 25th.
Lighten up
Study will form a bit part of your timetable. Most dorms and student rentals include built-in desks, but a desk lamp is essential for those nights that you’re burning the midnight oil, cramming for an exam or tutorial deadline.
Anglepoise is the original task lamp and remains one of the greatest targeted ways of shining a light on the relevant subject.
There are many options to choose from, including designer collaborations with the likes of Margaret Howell and Paul Smith.
The 90 Mini Mini is a compact version that comes with a plug-in adapter and USB cable, and an integrated, dimmable LED bulb.
Controlled by a switch on top of the shade, it gives focused light for up to 20,000 hours. It costs about €305, ex taxes and delivery from Anglepoise.com. Lights.ie also stocks a selection of the brand.
Cover me
A new duvet will help settle you into your new space.
Choosing a duvet with natural filling means enjoying the best insulation nature has to offer.
A duck down duvet or goose feather duvet adapts to your body temperature, keeping you warm without trapping excess heat.
Lightweight yet insulating, these duvets are ideal for anyone who wants breathable bedding that feels luxurious.
This 10.5 tog duck down Himmeltinden duvet provides great insulation and a light, airy sensation so you can enjoy a restful night’s sleep. It is currently reduced from €179 to €90 for a double at JYSK.
Pillow talk
Natural materials such as down, feathers, wool, or silk fillings are easy to shape, so you can fluff or flatten the pillow to match your preferred height.
This is practical if you switch between sleeping on your back and side. Meadows & Byrne sells a 100 per cent wool option that offers natural comfort and natural temperature regulation; this pillow keeps you cool in summer and warm in winter for year-round comfort. Ideal for those seeking a supportive, hypoallergenic, and eco-conscious sleep solution, it costs €39.95.
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