What to bring:

Bedding

Crates or storage containers – organization is key in a shared space

Photos, decorations – don’t go overboard, but a few photos and a house plant help your room feel like home.

Basic bathroom supplies

Flip flops – these help you avoid transmission of fungi in shared showers.

Towels, bathrobe

Sleepwear

Comfortable shoes – for walking to classes.

Clothes hangers

Weather gear – sunglasses, umbrella, jacket. Iowa weather is notoriously temperamental.

Basic cleaning supplies, paper towels, small trash bags

Laundry detergent, stain remover, dryer sheets

Dish soap and sponge

Cell phone and charger

Camera

Laptop – you won’t regret the investment

Extra outlet strip with surge protector

Desk or bedside lamp

Headphones – don’t annoy your roommate.

First Aid kit and basic medical supplies, in addition to any prescriptions.

Planner or calendar

Vehicle registration and insurance information if you’ll be bringing a car to campus.

Basic school supplies – backpack, pens, notebooks

Calculator, if your major requires – check with your classes. Some require graphing calculators, some forbid them.

What’s already in your room:

Bed and extra-long twin mattress

Desk and desk chair

Wardrobe or closet

Small trash can

See house or hall web pages for more specific information

What NOT to bring:

Space heaters, toasters, anything with exposed heating elements. Likewise, candles are not allowed.

Pets, other than fish.

Weapons

Refrigerators larger than 4.6 cubic-feet

Extension cords without surge protectors

Kegs – or any alcohol – if you’re under 21