<p>An extension and multiple outlet cord that has several branches. I think they’re called squids or octopuses or something. Available in office supply stores. A lifesaver in enabling kids to hook up all their electronic gear (computer, printer, speakers, clock, light, etc., etc., etc.).</p>
<p>Febreeze…hum…I have been told is used to mask pot use…but kids say its to mask room-mates who don’t clean up frequently…maybe for both?..</p>
<p>Great suggestions, everyone, thank you.</p>
<p>I never thought of Febreeze, although I use it at home. I’ll sneak in the Downy Wrinkle Release although that may come back full (S and I have different definitions on what is wrinkled).</p>
<p>The electric tea pot is a must for S - loves tea.</p>
<p>Student615 - Thank you for such a comprehensive list.</p>
<p>Duct tape. Adhesive hooks to the wall for towels.</p>
<p>They sell those “bag o rocks” things at Bed Bath and Beyond for odor absorption…we buy those for closet floor
we bought a tiny foam couch at Pier One that folds out to be a mattress…used all the time for four years when people visit the dorms…and more comfy than the futons…light to carry around too.
we also bought the full spectrum lamps from sharper image for studying.</p>
<p>After tonight, D will keep roach spray on hand. Spending summer in college owned apartment. Greeted by GIANT water bug in the shower. I think she nearly had a heart attack. But tonight, in the pinch, she used bathroom foam cleanser. Just took the little monster a little longer to die.</p>
<p>The Febreze came home unused. More paper towels went back after break. Sophomore year less went, asked about more Tide on a break too soon for it to be used up- found out he used the small regular one left from summer camp days instead of the put away large front loader one. Be sure your child knows what is packed for him/her to take- do not rely on them to take everything they should without your input, but if they don’t get involved they will just stuff it in a closet and never know they had it. The one nonnegotiable item was the medical kit (and appreciated)- hopefully unused, but helpful when they need the bandaid, advil et al without having to go to a store. The large round collapsable laundry hampers are great for car transportation of stuff for breaks- especially when all they have to do is throw in all the clothes from the floor…</p>
<p>The Wrinkle Release didn’t work. I tried it, and didn’t bother to leave it in his room. </p>
<p>One thing he thought he wouldn’t use, and DID appreciate was a small electric fan. Also used a leatherman tool more than he thought he would.</p>
<p>Definitely make sure that the student unpacks the desk supplies, first aid stuff, etc. Otherwise, they’ll never know what is in the drawers.</p>
<p>I like wrinkle release, but I have nearly as much luck using a small spray bottle filled with water ($0.99 in the travel-sized toiletries area of Target). If I need it more crisp than that’s going to get it, I need to find a friend with an iron (was never necessary)! </p>
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<p>The beauty of Febreze is that it can be used to mask most things…not least of all, clothes that have been sitting in the laundry hamper for days. Or weeks. And, eventually, it can be sprayed on a cloth hamper itself. Sometimes, even the most hygienic kids go through gross spells when left to their own devices…</p>
<p>For detergent, I originally brought tablets, thinking they’d be easier to carry to the laundry room than a big bottle. They didn’t dissolve wonderfully, the box took up lots of space, and eventually, we were all asked to use liquid anyway, as tablets/powder clogged the machines. The “Small & Mighty” type concentrated bottles were nice…easy to carry, easy to store. Not a big deal…just a tip.</p>
<p>The electric kettle is a fantastic suggestion. I generally had a microwave, which can technically do the exact same thing, but that’s only because I didn’t realize that electric kettles existed. There’s just something about them that’s incredibly and inexplicably wonderful.</p>
<p>Just adding and commenting as things occur to me. I like this thread…less pressure than listing “MUST have” or “Will NEVER use” stuff!</p>