Below are tips to make your move more environmentally friendly and to save you money.
Plan Ahead
Avoid duplicates by talking to your roommates. Find out what they are bringing such as TVs and toasters. Consider purchasing some items second hand after you arrive. Stores such as Goodwill carry secondhand furniture and appliances at affordable prices. If buying new appliances, always look for the EnergyStar label. You will find a list of items to bring and not to bring below.
Wait to Buy Big
Don’t buy large items like appliances and rugs for your new residence without seeing it first. They may not fit! Newer residence halls already have large appliances in rooms and/or community kitchens. Also, your roommates might split the cost with you, saving you money.
Buy Used to Save
Local thrift stores carry housewares, decorations, artwork, and closet organizers at a fraction of the cost of new. Facebook Marketplace is also a great resource for students looking for good deals at a low cost. Some residence halls save appliances and furniture left behind. Check with your RA to see if they have extra stuff in storage.
Don’t overpack
The less you bring, the less packaging you’ll waste and the less stuff you’ll have to move out in May. During move-out, many items are left behind, so bring as little as possible. Don’t forget that you will probably collect many things during your stay here, including clothing!
Save Energy
Purchase EnergyStar rated computers and appliances. Bring a power strip with surge protection and an LED task light. A foldable drying rack will save energy and money on drying clothes.
Avoid Cardboard Boxes
Instead of packing in a cardboard box, try packing in backpacks, duffel bags, suitcases, laundry bins, foldable storage bins and other containers. If you do have to use a box, keep it for move out by storing it under your bed or behind your desk.
Pack Zero Waste
Wrap small items in clothes, sheets, or old newspapers and large items in blankets instead of bubble wrap and packing peanuts.
Consider packing the following:
- Reusable water bottle that can be filled up at one of the many water bottle refill stations
- Reusable coffee cup
- Reusable shopping bag(s)
- Reusable plates, cups, and utensils for late night snacks
- Wool drying balls to replace dryer sheets
- Plastic free toiletries such as bar shampoo and conditioner, toothpaste tablets
- Eco-friendly soap, detergent, and cleaners
Recycle!
Please break down cardboard boxes and place in the roll-offs behind your residence hall with this sign: “Cardboard Recycling.” There will be one roll-off for trash and one for recycling so check for signage before throwing items into roll-offs.
Plastic bags and plastic film and block Styrofoam from packages are not recyclable in regular recycling. Look for special bins during move-in or ask member of move-in staff.
What to Bring
Download a list of items to bring to campus related to sustainability.