What to Ask for in an Apartment-Related Care Package

By Madison White on September 29, 2019

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Your apartment is likely the first, or one of the first, spaces you have complete control over. This means you will be responsible for decorating, cleaning, and caring for the space yourself. Because you have not have had these kinds of responsibilities before, there are a few things that you may be prone to forgetting. Check out this list of some great items you may want to ask your parents to send you in an apartment care package.

1. Picture frames

When it comes to styling their space, many students will go with the cheaper, easier option. This means that they will often tape or tack up photos or posters directly to the wall. Not only could this be damaging to the wall itself, but it lends itself to a messy look that isn’t usually what they’re going for.

Adding a simple frame to a picture or poster can make a world of difference. It immediately adds a sense of class to the decoration rather than simply hanging it on its own. Have your parents send some simple frames in easy-to-fill sizes like 4×6 or 5×7 can make a huge difference. Make sure that when your parents are picking out frames that they are choosing ones that will match your general style. It is best to go with some simple black or wooden frames because those can match almost any room. It is probably not a great idea to choose overly decorative frames or ones that have specific wording on them because they may not have a picture to match.

2. Wall mounting tools

Alongside the objects they may be hanging on their walls, you are likely to need something to hang them with. You should make sure you are familiar with what the landlord allows when it comes to wall decorations. If they are very open, you may want to have your parents send along a cheap set of hammer and nails. This is the traditional way of hanging things.

If your landlord is a bit stingier with the wall space, you’ll want to ask for something that can easily be removed and won’t cost you anything in damages. This usually means some type of easy-to-remove hook like a Command strip. Make sure that you follow directions carefully when applying these as well.

3. All-purpose cleaner

If there is one stereotype about college student spaces, it is that they aren’t very clean. Because they are prioritizing other things, cleaning, especially deep cleaning, can often go by the wayside. However, to keep your space looking and smelling fresh, you should definitely have some cleaning spray. You may have one that you already like and can be used in kitchens and bathrooms alike. This is a great item to ask your parents to send you because then you won’t have to wade through the confusion that is the cleaning spray aisle.

4. Bathroom storage items

Organizing your space may also not be the first priority when you move in. However, a good organizational tool can go a long way in terms of maximizing space and reducing clutter. Bathrooms are often one room that is neglected when it comes to organization, especially if multiple people share a bathroom.

It may be a good idea to ask for some items that will help you keep your bathroom items organized. An in-shower caddy is great because it lifts the shampoo and soap bottles off the tub ledges where they are prone to be knocked over. Another great idea may be one of those stackable shelving units. These are wonderful for storing personal care items that won’t fit under the sink.

5. Handheld vacuum

As stated before, cleaning can often be put on the backburner when it comes to college apartments. This is especially true since college students are unlikely to own a vacuum. It isn’t a surprise considering that most vacuums are very bulky and often expensive. It isn’t usually within budget.

Having your parents send you a full-size vacuum cleaner may not be an option, but they can definitely fit a handheld one within a shipping box. Even just a handheld vacuum cleaner can make a world of difference when it comes to keeping their furniture and floors clean. They are easy and quick to use, and you for sure will use it often.

Moving into a new apartment, especially if it is their first, is a giant step. It will come with many challenges and trials that you have never had to deal with before. In some ways, you will have to make your own mistakes and learn valuable lessons in terms of maintaining a space. In other ways, it may be a good idea to ask your parents to lend a guiding hand when you run into some issues that they know how to handle.

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