College Life
4 No-Fail Ways to Manage Your Mental Health in College
College students around the world have been severely impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic, both in their academic as well as social lives. Not only have many classes transferred to an online format, but the entire routine of going to class, eating with friends, and going out on the weekends has come to a halt.
College is already a time where young people tend to disregard their mental health, but the pandemic has raised this issue to a new height, by taking away the daily routines that students use to stay healthy and productive.
Despite the plethora of new found obstacles that college students have faced during this pandemic, the resiliency of young people cannot be underestimated. Even when so much has been taken away from the “best four years of their lives”, students continue to find ways to stay optimistic and happy during these trying times.
I interviewed three students at Wesleyan University in order to get a better understanding of how college students are taking care of their mental health and was met with many strategies current students are using to manage their mental health.
1. Self-Care
“Aside from attending therapy once every two weeks, one of the big ways that I manage my mental health in college is through self-care. Self-care looks different for many students, but to me, it’s about taking the time that I know I deserve to relax and turning on some music or spending time with friends,” said Darielis Rivas class of ‘23.
During a time where most people are concerned about catching, and or spreading COVID-19, self-care may seem like an afterthought, but keeping up with our own health outside of the pandemic is essential, and its importance cannot be overstated.
As Rivas states, self-care looks different from person to person, but what it comes down to is finding the activities that allow you to relax, bring you joy, or simply take your mind off what is going on in the outside world. Another student had a different approach towards keeping track of his mental health:
2. Be Active
“My mental health declines whenever I’m not active and just letting myself stew in boredom so I’ve found the best way to cope with that is just to be active and not get stuck in this cycle of boredom where I feel like I’m not accomplishing anything,” said Joseph Seen ‘23.
The boredom that Seen described has been drastically exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic for many students. Yet, feelings of boredom and loneliness have a few solutions. The challenge is to get up and do something––even if the motivation to do so can be difficult to find.
3. Break the Cycle of Routine
“When I feel like I’m being reclusive in my dorm or stuck in some kind of monotonous cycle, I’ll try to do something that breaks that cycle by just getting me out of my dorm or wherever I feel like I’ve been spending too much time like running or going to do something with friends,” said Seen.
In many ways, mental health is all about cycles and patterns that students tend to fall into. Some of these cycles are positive, and we need to motivate ourselves to continue them, and some are negative and we must try to break them, even if this is a daily struggle.
Maintaining positive cycles is most beneficial for some, whereas for others, breaking negative patterns help them the most. The variety of ways that young people are able to maintain their mental health is very broad. It is truly a personal journey that we must all take, to find the things most important to keep, as well as eliminate from our weekly routines.
4. Keep in Touch With Your Loved Ones
“I think being away from home is hard for me, but it isn’t really hard until you find that moment when you’re alone and have nothing to distract you. Keeping in contact with my family is what helps me. Texting and calling or even just seeing their face on video and photos really just helps me emotionally.” said Kelly Nano-Miranda class of ‘23 at Wesleyan University.
As Rivas found comfort in self care, and Seen did in breaking negative habits, Nano-Miranda sees family as the center point for her mental health, in the often lonely environment, that is a college campus during a pandemic.
Whether these responses resonate with you or not, they do prove one vital point, college students cope with their mental health in many different ways, and it’s okay to be unsure of your preferred method. While there is no rush to find a perfect solution, the first step to that solution is being honest with yourself about the state of your mental health.
Reflect on when you are most happy, comforted, content, as well as most sad or stressed, and start to categorize which routines, or lack thereof in your life, tends to make you feel these emotions.
College Life
Best Mini Fridges With Freezers for Dorms – The Ultimate Student 2021 Guide
Looking for the perfect mini fridge with freezer for your dorm? Check out this ultimate guide to getting a fridge in college!
I am a big advocate of having a mini-fridge with freezers for your dorm room so I compiled the top fridges to get for your dorm!
From really compact mini-fridges in the form of Magic Chef to Galanz retro fridges to match your dorm room aesthetics, you can’t go wrong with any of these mini-fridges!
At first, I was hesitant to get a mini-fridge with a freezer for my dorm room, and you may be too. But remember that your food expense is going to be a lot higher without a mini-fridge.
Your takeout food leftovers will go to waste — you can’t buy fresh groceries because you have no place to store them… it could cost you at least $105 or more per week just for takeout.
Having a fridge in your dorm room is a great way to save tons of money, and who doesn’t want a cold drink when you need to stay awake and pull all-nighters?
I chose these fridges based on positive reviews, size, advantages and disadvantages, and, of course, aesthetics and size. Trust me, you need a mini-fridge in your dorm!
So, let’s take a look at the best mini fridges with freezers for dorms! Check out this ultimate guide to getting a fridge in college!
In This Post:
- Top 10 Mini Fridges With Freezers For Your Dorm
- Top Recommended Picks
- Why Get a Mini Fridge For Your Dorm
- Where To Store Your Mini Fridge
- Essentials For Your Mini Fridge
- Food That Is Safe To Store In Your Mini Fridge
- Mini Fridge Resources
TOP 10 Mini Fridges With Freezers For Your Dorm
Danby Compact Refrigerator with Freezer
This 3.1 cubic feet, double door compact mini-fridge from Danby is the fridge of your dreams.
Equipped with a vegetable crisper and a tempered glass shelf, the fridge is perfect for storing fresh groceries and keeping perishable goods frozen.
One thing I love about this product is its double door because it makes it easier to separate things I want frozen and things that I want to keep cool.
Plus, I adore how compact this fridge is — perfect for dorms.
Galanz Retro Compact Refrigerator
- Features: Retro design, adjustable thermostat, removable glass shelves, double door design, interior light and energy efficient.
- Disadvantages: partial automatic defrost, the retro design might not be for everybody
- Overall: Best for long term duration because of its energy efficiency! If you are looking for a fridge that will last you most of your dorm time, then this Galanz compact refrigerator is the best choice.
Black + Decker Compact Refrigerator with Freezer
If you love the convenience and do not want the hassle of having a two-door mini-fridge, then this Black + Decker 2.5 cubic feet compact refrigerator is perfect for you!
Plus, if you’re really concerned about space, the door of this mini-fridge is reversible so you can open it to whichever side is more accessible.
The freezer includes an ice tray so you don’t have to worry about getting one. And compared to other mini-fridges, this one is more compact, especially because of its reversible door.
I love that this fridge is ultra-quiet! You wouldn’t have to worry about disturbing the roommates.
Midea WHS-65LSS1, 1.6 Cu. Ft. Compact Refrigerator
A true space-saver is this Midea 1.6 cubic feet mini-fridge. Don’t judge the fridge by its appearance; it’s the definition of the adage “small but mighty.”
I love that this mini-fridge has reversible door hinges because it really won’t consume much space. So, if you’re looking for a reliable fridge that can easily be stored in a closet or under your bed, then this Midea compact refrigerator is perfect for you.
RCA 3.2 Cu Ft Single Door Mini Fridge with Freezer
A mini-fridge for your dorm that’s best for your pocket is the RCA 3.2 cubic feet fridge!
- Features: freezer, adjustable thermostat, reversible door
- Benefits: energy-saving, small (good for dorms)
- Disadvantages: manual defrost
- Overall: A functional fridge under $200. Really the best for your money.
hOmeLabs Mini Fridge with Small Freezer
Another great fridge is hOmeLabs’ 3.3 cubic feet refrigerator. This fridge is made to be put under counters or any space under your bed or shelves.
Plus, the glass shelves are removable so you can adjust the space to whatever’s more practical for you and your groceries. I love that this fridge has adjustable feet so I can level it properly on the floor or on whatever surface I decide to put it on.
This product comes in two sizes, 3.3 and 2.4, so you can choose whichever best fits your dorm space.
TECCPO Mini Fridge with Freezer
This super quiet fridge with an auto-defrost feature by TECCPO is an amazing choice for your dorm. One thing you should look for when buying a mini-fridge is an auto-defrost feature because you don’t want to manually have to do that.
Plus, this fridge comes with a vegetable box where you can store your fresh produce and includes an adjustable leg. I like that this fridge comes with wheels! This can be really helpful when you need to move the fridge around.
RaySonics Mini Fridge
If you are looking for another energy efficient mini-fridge then the RaySonics 3.3 cubic feet, an energy-star mini-fridge is perfect to bring to any dorm.
With three removable shelves, you can adjust the space inside the fridge to your liking. Plus, this is one of the fridges on the list that’s under $200! So, if you are also looking to save, this product is the one for your dorm.
Midea 3.1 Cu. Ft. Compact Refrigerator
- With a four-and-a-half star average of 3,986 ratings, this is the best mini-fridge your money can get.
- Value: On Sale on Amazon from $199 to $249
- Advantages: Double doors, freezer, adjustable shelves, adjustable leg, fruit and vegetable drawer.
Magic Chef 2.4 cu. ft. Refrigerator
Another mini-fridge with a freezer that’s under $200 is this fridge by Magic Chef. With a reversible door feature and adjustable legs, this fridge truly conserves space.
Not only that, a 2.4 cubic feet refrigerator can be put anywhere you’d like. I love that the fridge is really compact. I can imagine putting it on top of a big desk or under it, for easy access to cold drinks.
Related: The Best Grocery List For College Students – The Ultimate Guide
Top Recommended Picks
If you are looking for the best overall fridge from the list, it is the Midea 3.1 cubic feet compact refrigerator!
Midea 3.1 Cu. Ft. Compact Refrigerator
- With a four-and-a-half star average of 3,986 ratings, this is the best mini-fridge your money can get.
- Value: On Sale on Amazon from $199 to $249
- Advantages: Double doors, freezer, adjustable shelves, adjustable leg, fruit and vegetable drawer.
Best For Your Pocket
RCA 3.2 Cu Ft Single Door Mini Fridge with Freezer
A mini-fridge for your dorm that’s best for your pocket is the RCA 3.2 cubic feet fridge!
- Features: freezer, adjustable thermostat, reversible door
- Benefits: energy-saving, small (good for dorms)
- Disadvantages: manual defrost
- Overall: A functional fridge under $200. Really the best for your money.
Best Long Term Fridge
Galanz Retro Compact Refrigerator
- Features: Retro design, adjustable thermostat, removable glass shelves, double door design, interior light and energy efficient.
- Disadvantages: partial automatic defrost, the retro design might not be for everybody
- Overall: Best for long term duration because of its energy efficiency! If you are looking for a fridge that will last you most of your dorm time, then this Galanz compact refrigerator is the best choice.
Best For the Most Space
Magic Chef 2.4 cu. ft. Refrigerator/Freezer in White
- Features: 2.4 cubic feet (small! Which is perfect for tight spaces), cheap, adjustable thermostat, compressor cooling, adjustable legs, reversible door.
- Disadvantages: manual defrost
- Overall: For only $149 this is the best mini-fridge you can get especially if you are worried about space. This fridge can fit almost anywhere!
OTHER TOP PICK Mini Fridges With Freezers
![Comfee 1.6 Cubic Feet Solo Series Retro Refrigerator Sleek Appearance HIPS Interior, Energy Saving, Adjustable Legs, Temperature Thermostat Dial, Removable Shelf, Perfect for Home/Dorm/Garage [Black]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31CQ0u9mOFL._SL500_.jpg)
Why Get a Mini Fridge In Your Dorm?
At first, I wasn’t a fan of getting a mini-fridge for my dorm, too, but as the semester progressed I realized that I was spending so much of my money on takeout.
Not only that, I never got to enjoy my leftovers because I had nowhere to store them. For example, after I ordered a $15 pasta from my favorite Italian restaurant, I just threw it immediately even if it wasn’t finished.
What a waste! So I highly recommend having a mini-fridge. A mini-fridge in your dorm will allow you to get takeout and have leftovers! This means you can save money by having two meals for the price of one.
Not only that, having a mini-fridge allows you to do some grocery shopping and make food because you have somewhere cool to store it.
Plus, you can also start doing food preparations so you don’t have to worry about what you’re going to eat next mealtime.
Related: 30 College Meal Prep Ideas Every Student Should Try
Where To Store Your Mini Fridge
Under the Bunk Bed
If you have the space under your bed, especially if it’s lofted, store your mini-fridge there. By having it under your bed, the mini-fridge wouldn’t get in the way of your other things.
Plus, if you have more space you can add shelves under your bed and turn it into a mini kitchen where your fridge is at.
By the Window
Another idea on where to store your mini-fridge in your dorm is to put it by the window!
If you have a desk by your dorm window then you can put the fridge to the side of the desk, but if it’s a completely open space, put your fridge by the window and use it as a mini shelf for your pot of plants or other things.
On Top of Your Drawers
If your dorm comes equipped with shelves that are sturdy enough to handle a 50+-pound mini-fridge, then you can put your fridge on top of it.
This is a wise move because you level up your mini-fridge, which means no crouching down to get things, and you save space.
Just make sure your fridge doesn’t leak or don’t put any stuff that you wouldn’t want to get wet inside the shelf you would put your fridge on.
The Foot of Your Bed
Another area where you can store your mini-fridge in your dorm is by the foot of your bed. Like storing the fridge under your bed, this space wouldn’t get in the way of your other things.
Plus, if you need a cool drink in the middle of the night you don’t have to get up. Just reach out for the fridge by the bed!
Essentials For Your Mini Fridge
If you are getting a mini-fridge, make sure to get these essentials too so you can make the most out of your fridge.
Mini and stackable ice cube trays
Get these stackable ice cube trays so you can always have ice handy without taking up too much space in your fridge.
Reusable freezer bags
Freezer bags are perfect for storing anything you can put in it. Get reusable ones so you don’t have to repurchase every time you need some.
Over-the-door mini-fridge caddy
To really maximize the space of your mini-fridge, extend the space outside of the fridge with this over-the-door caddy.
In the caddy, you can store spices and condiments that are nonperishable or cooking tools. You can also store the reusable freezer bags in one of its pockets.
Magnetic Rack
Another mini-fridge essential is a magnetic rack for storing more things! The best thing about this rack is that there are no tools necessary to install it.
If you have a mini-fridge then the magnet should automatically stick to it and then you’ll have yourself a rack where you can store anything, from paper towels to cutlery and more.
Arm & Hammer Fridge Fresh Refrigerator Air Filter
An essential to keep your fridge fresh and clean is this Arm & Hammer air filter! The air filter eliminates odors so foods remain fresher longer.
And if you are worried about not knowing when to replace the air filter, the product comes with a replacement indicator to ensure your food is always fresh.
Food That Is Safe To Store In Your Mini Fridge
There is a lot of food that is safe to store in your mini-fridge. A key thing to keep in mind is that the fridge that you get should be able to keep items frozen and other things cool.
So, a lot of research is necessary before you buy your mini-fridge, but the fridges mentioned above are capable of storing a range of food. Here’s a sample list:
- Fresh vegetables
- Fruits
- Cold cuts/Lunch meats
- Milk
- Eggs
- Yogurt
- Microwavable foods (TV Dinners, frozen meals, etc.)
- Frozen vegetables
- Ice cream
- Cheese
Related: 50 Dorm Room Must-Haves for College Students
Mini Fridge Resources
Saving in college can be an arduous task. Like I mentioned earlier, prior to having a mini-fridge, I would always have takeout, not realizing that I am spending more than what I can.
Truly, having a mini-fridge in my dorm was a big help in terms of keeping track of how I spend my money and how I budget my meals, and it will be for you, too.
But if you need further resources, here are my picks on resources that help me save and budget!
Digit (savings app)
Digit is an application that can help you keep track of your expenses and informs you about your spending habits. When you link your bank account to Digit, the app analyzes your spending habits and when you set a spending goal.
Digit moves small amounts of money each day to help you reach your short and long-term goals.
If you want to save money for your next grocery trip or for eating out, the app can save money for that goal using machine learning that calculates smart amounts of money to save!
Plus, like me, you will love that the application has a low balance protection option because this gives us the power to control how low our checking account goes. PS: If you sign up with our unique link, you get $5 for FREE.
Ibotta (grocery shopping cellphone app)
If you are buying groceries and need to decide what products to put inside your mini-fridge, the best practice is to make a list of products that can save you further money.
Ibotta has partnered with a lot of stores, from Walmart to Safeway, that can help you earn money for every purchase you make. The app is pretty straightforward to use!
You get cashback for every coupon that you clip and I love how even by spending my money I can still save some because of Ibotta.
Before making purchases for your mini-fridge, make sure to check out the Ibotta app and see what I mean when they help you save more!
$5 Meal Plan
If you are totally clueless about what groceries to put in your mini-fridge or what meals to prepare for the week, have no fear! The $5 Meal Plan gives you a healthy and satiating meal plan for the week.
The best part? You can try it for free for up to two weeks and then you pay $5/month to continue the service, which is not bad, especially if you think of the ease it will provide.
One thing I love about the plan is that it provides you a grocery list of ingredients!
So, if you are looking for things to put in your mini-fridge, the best way is to check the list and see if one thing is used for most of the ingredients and you can buy and store it in your newly bought mini-fridge for your dorm. Check it out here.
In Conclusion
Having a mini-fridge when you’re living in a dorm is a gift that keeps on giving.
When purchasing a mini-fridge for your dorm, make sure you’ve done adequate research to know which fridge can fit in your space, which of them has enough cooling power and which one matches your aesthetics (mini-fridges don’t need to be boring!).
I hope this article helped you find the perfect mini-fridge for you, and if you’re still on the fence about getting one, trust me, you need one.
Having one in your dorm affords you convenience and will surely save you money with all the meal preparation and storing you’ll be able to do. Have a great semester!
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College Life
The First Apartment Checklist – The Ultimate Moving Guide
Are you moving into a new apartment? Check out this ultimate moving guide with a first apartment checklist.
This post probably contains affiliate links. Our full disclosure is long, but you can find it here.
For many of us, finding our first apartment can be exciting and a bit nerve-wracking.
Usually, when finding our first apartment, we are either reaching adulthood, moving out for our studies, recent college graduates, or have just gained financial stability.
When relocating, there are many things to consider; these include many small essentials that we probably paid no mind to before moving out.
Small necessities such as toilet paper and kitchen essentials can add up to be costly. Having a plan before moving will help you stay on budget and avoid the headache of deciding what you need to purchase for your apartment.
Through my personal experiences and consulting with friends, I have gathered a ‘First Apartment Checklist’ that will get you moving in no time.
Keep in mind: if you are planning to buy any essentials online, you should take a look at this cashback app to get a percentage back on your orders. This is an excellent idea for big purchases! You will save a lot of money.
I would say that, to start, our first and foremost important category is bedroom essentials.
In this Post
Bedroom Essentials
Get a Bed!
There are many different types of beds. Before buying, make sure to consider the size of your room. Measure your room and keep in mind the other spaces needed for your other bedroom essentials.
I have created a list of beds that would be a wise choice for your apartment. All of them are affordable options.
Types of Beds:
Platform
I absolutely admire the appearance of this platform bed. It makes your room look sophisticated. Very chic!
The headboard, with its sophisticated stitching and button tufting, rises more than 2 feet over the top of the bed frame to create a focal point in your bedroom, even with a very thick mattress.
If you are looking for a modern-style bedroom, platform beds are the best choice. You can comfortably enjoy your movie night without needing an extra pillow to lean against!
Another great feature about this bed is that it is easy to assemble, and you can tuck away smaller items and most storage bins underneath the bed.
Storage Beds
Are you in need of many storage containers? I recommend storage beds if you are the type of person with many things lying around, or if you’re living with your partner – do they need storage space?
Personally, I have a hard time staying organized, which is why I have this type of bed. It allows your bedroom to look neat along with providing plenty of storage room for your essentials.
The best part is that you won’t need to buy as many storage bins as you would’ve had you gone with a regular bed. Saving money and space - what’s not to love?
Adjustable Bed
This type of bed usually enables you to increase or decrease the angle of the upper and lower part of the bed. It’s a good choice for when you want to read a book, watch TV, etc.
An adjustable bed has countless benefits, such as improved blood circulation, lessened back pain, and reduced acid reflux. It is best to take care of yourself before facing complications!
Also, who doesn’t like to adjust their bed perfectly how they like it?
Futon Bed
I remember the first time I saw one of these at a friend’s apartment – I never knew it was a bed! Futon beds are foldable beds that resemble a couch, which makes it no surprise that you can easily use them both ways.
This type of bed is great for college students moving out of their parent’s house for the first time. Why? The bed is affordable and doesn’t require much space, making it a good option when moving into a small apartment.
Not to mention, you are saving time and money not having to purchase both a bed and couch. In addition, this bed would be great for your guests looking to stay overnight.
Standard Bed Sizes:
Twin
A twin bed is the smallest size bed in the market. It’s typically made for one person.
Dimension (38” X 75”)
Twin XL
The Twin XL is slightly bigger than the original twin size bed. If you are tall, the extra space makes it a better option than a standard twin bed.
Dimension (39” X 80”)
Full (May fit two people)
Dimension (54” X 75”)
Full XL
Dimension (54” X 80”)
Queen
Dimension (60” x 80”)
King
Dimension (76” x 80”)
Check out more types of beds!
Related: 60 Best Dorm Room Ideas for Girls – The Ultimate Guide
Get a Mattress!
Finding a good mattress is just as important as buying a bed. Make sure to try it out before buying! Purchasing a mattress without trying puts you at risk of harming your back and other body parts.
Memory Foam Mattress
As its name implies, the memory foam mattress has a layer of memory foam along with springs or other support foam.
The memory foam mattress is my favorite. I love the feeling of my body sinking into it. The mattress is soft yet firm, which supports your body while having all the benefits of a soft bed you can fall into.
What makes this mattress very cool is that It sinks when you lie into it, but bounces back when you get up; however, over time, the bed will slowly “memorize” your sleeping position and shape.
Benefits:
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- Retains body heat (Excellent for keeping warm in the winter!)
- Helps lower pressure points
- Supports back and neck
- Hypoallergenic
- Modern style
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Gel-Foam Mattress
Memory foam and gel foam mattresses are alike, but have a heat difference.
Benefits:
- Allows the body to stay cool (Recommended if you get hot quickly)
- Helps decrease back pain
- Supports back and neck
- Remembers and contours to your sleep form (With a partner, you wouldn’t feel their consistent movements!)
- Immune to dust mites
Innerspring Mattress
This type of mattress is the standard, making it affordable. However, there is a wide range in cost, depending on the materials used and the manufacturer.
The mattress consists of springs that support the bed, along with metal wires.
It was the first kind of modern mattress released in the market, taking over traditional wool, hay, straws, etc.
Benefits:
- Metal wires generate a lifting effect
- Low-cost (Recommended for students looking to save money)
- Firm & sturdy
- Durable (Very long-lasting!)
Latex Mattress
Latex mattresses are made with simple latex materials or with other elements of natural wool and cotton.
It doesn’t let your body sink in as memory foam does, which gives you it added benefit of letting your body stay cool, as it is open to more air.
Most latex mattresses are known to be antibacterial and low maintenance. If you like a firm yet bouncy bed, I highly recommend latex.
Benefits:
- Eco-friendly
- Firm
- Long-lasting
- Bouncy
- Easy to clean
Hybrid Mattress
As its name implies, hybrid mattresses combine the various types of mattresses into one. The hybrid mattress consists of innerspring, memory foam, gel, and latex.
You are getting the best of all mattresses in one; the foam helps lower pressure points while the construction of innerspring coils brings durability. Keep in mind, it’s generally more costly than memory foam, although it may last longer.
Benefits:
- Lower pressure points
- Firm and sturdy
- Eco- friendly
- Even weight distribution
- Easy to clean (It comes with removable covers)
To save room, you may want to invest in a Portable Closet
More Bedroom Essentials!
- Sheets
- Pillows
- Blankets
- Bed Stand/Frame
- Clothes Hangers
- Desk
- Mirror
- Curtains (don’t forget your windows!)
- TV Stand
- Trash Bin
- Nightstand
I recommend a nightstand for resting your phone and charger on. In addition, you should consider a lamp for your nightstand!
- TV
Common sizes: (in inches)
32, 40, 42, 46-49, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, and 80.
Check out the difference in sizes!
Kitchen Essentials
How much cooking are you planning on doing? Factor that in as you look at this list. Here are the basic necessities for the kitchen.
Get a Few Pans!
My friends and I usually use non-stick pans; it helps save time with cleaning, because foods don’t annoyingly stick to the pan. However, stainless steel pans are recommended if you are cooking with high heat, although they may more cleaning.
Generally, non-stick pans are coated with Teflon, giving them their non-stick quality. This type of coating cannot be used with high heat as it can release harmful chemicals.
Furthermore, if you find yourself using butter in many of your meals as opposed to cooking oil, a nonstick pan would be suitable for you due to its requirement of low-to-medium heat.
However, I recommend buying both stainless steel and non-stick pans for your apartment, because both types of pans have their unique usages.
Nonstick Pans:
Remember, you don’t need to use a lot of cooking oil (use with low-to-medium heat)
Great Uses:
- Frying and scrambling eggs
- Making pancakes & waffles
- Frying bacon
- Creamy, cheesy recipes (Doesn’t stick to the pan)
Don’t Use:
- Acidic recipes (such as tomatoes) (Using nonstick pans would ruin coating)
Stainless Steel Pans:
Use a generous amount of coating
Great uses:
- Deep frying
- Searing and charring meats
- Acidic recipes
- Preparing soups and sauces
Get Some Pots!
Can’t Forget Kitchen Knives!
If you cook at all, you should always consider keeping a chef’s knife around.
Uses
- Multifunctional
Chef’s knives and utility knives are both multipurpose. However, a chef’s knife has a larger blade, making it a better choice for bigger ingredients. The utility knife is wider in width and shorter in length, serving a purpose for smaller ingredients.
Uses:
- Multifunctional
- Ideal for small ingredients
- Suitable for mincing and creating small precise cuts
Santoku knife
I love the santoku knife due to its light weight. In addition, the tip of the blade isn’t sharp, making it a safe choice for beginners in the kitchen.
Many people confuse a Santoku knife with a chef’s knife, as they look quite similar. However, it is important to note that the Santoku knife has a thinner blade.
Uses
- Dicing
- Mincing
- Cutting fruits and veggies
Bread Knife
As its name implies, this knife is suitable for all types of bread. Nevertheless, you may also use it for countless other foods.
Uses:
- Loaves of bread
- Bagels
- Bars of chocolate
- Biscuits
- Cake
Check out more types of knives.
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- Knife Sharpener
- Kitchen Scissors
- Cutting Board
- Oven Mitts/Potholders
- Bowls
- Forks, Spoons, Butterknives
- Whisk
- Can Opener
- Colander
- Measuring Cups (liquid & dry)
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Related: 50 Dorm Room Must-Haves for College Students
Dry Ingredients
Liquids
Pick Up a Few Measuring Spoons!
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- Spatula
- Tongs
- Mixing Spoons
- Soup Ladle
- Kitchen Tables & Chairs
- Microwave
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Check Out These Living Room Essentials!
This is the most exciting category in the ‘First Apartment Checklist’- well, in my opinion. But don’t you agree?
A Comfortable Couch
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- Throw Pillows
- Blankets
- TV
- TV Stand
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- Rug
- TV Speakers
- Trash Can
- Shoe Rack
- Coffee Table
- Small Side Table (so you’ll stop losing the remote control!)
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Lights
Related: 70 Best Dorm Gifts For College Students – The Complete Guide
Bathroom Essentials
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Toothbrush Holder
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Toilet Paper
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Towels (face, body, hands)
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Air Freshener
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Washrag
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Bathroom Mirror
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Bathroom Mat
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Bathtub Mat
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Toilet Plunger
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Shower Curtains
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Curtains Hook
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Toiletries
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Toothbrush & Toothpaste
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Floss
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Mouthwash
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Body Soap
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Hand Soap
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Shampoo & Conditioner
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Razors & Shaving Cream
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Remember Those Cleaning Essentials!
Source
Bathroom Cleaning Products
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Vacuum
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Tech Vacuum
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Dish Soap
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Laundry Detergent & Fabric Softener
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Broom & Dustpan
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Cleaning Gloves
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Cleaning Rag
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Bleach or Baking Soda
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Related: 30 Best Dorm Room Ideas You Will Absolutely Need in College
Technology Essentials
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Smart Thermostat
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I recommend a smart thermostat for your apartment. Why? Because you can adjust the temperature of your apartment to your preference using a smart thermostat. The thermostat will turn on and off at certain times, making it convenient and cost-effective!
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Coffee Maker
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Air Purifier
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Smoke Detector
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Touchless Trash Bins
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Charging Lamps
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Amazon Echo
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I highly recommend that you purchase Amazon Echo for your first apartment if you haven’t already! It is an intelligent speaker that listens to your commands and answers your questions.
The speaker would help assist you with specific tasks without you having to move an inch. This is extremely useful for just about anyone, especially if you are busy running errands all day.
General Uses
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- Answers phone calls
- Turns your lights on and off with voice commands
- Controls the thermostat
- Searches for things on the internet with voice commands
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Check out the Amazon Echo and its capabilities.
Check out other smart Amazon devices!
There you have it! These are the top essentials you should include on your ‘First Apartment Checklist.’
Having a checklist keeps you organized and helps reduce the stress of shopping, which will allow you to enjoy your first apartment. Need any ideas for decorating your apartment?
Check out the 50 best college apartment decor ideas!
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By Tina Dieu
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The Best Self-Care Essentials Every College Guy Needs -The Ultimate Guide
Looking for products to enhance your self-care routine? We got you. Here is the best list of self-care essentials for your grooming and hygiene routine.
Disclaimer: This post is a paid collaboration with MANSCAPED. All our opinions are our own.
Is the time of the year again! School season is in full swing and students are getting ready to start school. After one year in quarantine, students are slowly adjusting to a new normal.
Let’s face it. The most dreadful part of returning to school for any student is figuring out what to pack. College packing is never fun.
The biggest challenge students face this year is to figure out how to thrive in school while staying safe amid the pandemic. That is why hygiene is more important than ever.
When it comes to hygiene essentials, there are so many options out there that it can be overwhelming to find the right products for your personal care.
This is why we have compiled the best list of self-care products that will enhance your grooming and hygiene routine.
Self Care for Men
The Lawn Mower
There is nothing more important to the self-care routine of a college man than a trimmer. This 4th generation trimmer features a cutting-edge ceramic blade to reduce grooming accidents thanks to their Advanced SkinSafe Technology.
The trimmer includes four adjustable guard sizes that can deliver a more customizable trimming experience. Plus, it is waterproof so you will be able to shave in the shower as much as you’d like.
The Weed Whacker
Looking for a compact trimmer that can get rid of those annoying ear and nose hairs? This is the right product for you. Have you ever pulled your nose hair out with some tweezers? It hurts more than you can imagine.
The weed whacker has Proprietary SkinSafe technology that helps reduce nicks, snags, and tugs. Plus, the Intelligently contoured design enhances the trimming experience so it is easy and quick to use.
The best part of this trimmer is it has a waterproof design which makes for easy operation and cleaning.
Refined Cologne
Looking for a light fragrance to use daily? Look no further. This cologne has a clean and fresh scent designed for the refined gentleman. It is perfect for the busy college man who wants a pleasing light masculine fragrance.
You’ll be smelling like a million bucks with this fragrance.
The best thing about this cologne is that it is Cruelty-Free, Dye Free, Paraben Free, and Vegan so you can comfortably use it without having to worry about any allergic reaction or health hazard.
Shears 2.0
Tired of misplacing your clippers and tweezers when you actually need them? You are going to love this compact luxury 4-piece nail kit featuring stainless steel tools.
The kit includes a slant-tipped tweezer, a rounded point scissor, fingernail clippers, and a medium grit nail file that is perfect for a quick manicure.
You will never be afraid to show your nails again when using this amazing nail kit. The coolest part of this kid has to be the premium PU leather case. It is so fancy that it looks like a fashionable wallet.
You will never feel embarrassed to take your nail kit with you anywhere you go.
We save the best for the last!
The Performance Package 4.0
Looking for a complete grooming kit that will take your self-care routine to the next level? We got you covered. This luxury grooming kit featuring the new lawn mower and the weed whacker trimmer is pure gold.
It will make you excited to shower and groom!
The kit also includes an anti-chafing ball deodorant which provides freshness below-the-waist; a ball spray toner featuring a soothing aloe and witch hazel extracts for protection among the highly sensitive areas of your body; and disposable shaving mats so you never have to worry about making a mess while grooming.
Want more? with your purchase of the performance package, you will get a free pair of manscaped boxers which are super comfortable to wear.
You will also receive a free compact fashionable travel bag perfect to carry your products comfortably while you are on the go. This package is a must-have. Every college guy needs it in his life.
Final Thoughts
That’s a wrap. I hope this guide on self-care for men is helpful.
Your hygiene in college is very important so make sure that you get high-quality products that will enhance your personal care routine.
If you liked ANY of the products recommended above, you can purchase them here.
PS: You will receive a 20% off + free shipping using our unique link so take advantage of it. ENJOY!
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