Bedroom necessities and more: Everything you need for a new room

Moving into a new bedroom when starting college or university may sound daunting, and what makes it even harder is that it’ll be in an entirely new country! Understandably, it is very easy to become overwhelmed. But do not panic! We are here to give you a few tips on what the absolute essentials are to make your new bedroom your haven and minimise homesickness.

Main bedroom essentials

Bedding

Having a comfy bed to come home to at the end of the day is vital and getting a good night’s rest makes for a positive effect on your mood the next day. Student accommodations will only provide you with a naked mattress when you move in, so to make your bed the cosiest place in your new home you will need to get bed sheets, a mattress protector, a duvet set, and pillows. If you intend to move into a homestay, you may or may not be provided with a mattress, so please check to make sure whether you will have to buy your own bed or not.

Most stores sell Single, Double, Queen and King sized bedsheets while King Single ones are rare. Cotton and bamboo fabric bedsheets are recommended during summer for its breathable qualities that help keep you dry and cool. On the other hand, winter bedsheets normally feature a thicker quilt (which is called Doona in Australia) and fabrics such as flannel or fleece for bedsheets. If you are unsure about the size of your mattress, make sure to ask your accommodation or homestay about it. You do not want to end up accidentally buying the wrong sized bed sheets or doona cover!

Bedsheets may seem like a minor detail but a comfy bed is a great investment and you will be able to look forward to coming home every day, falling asleep in your own comfy little cloud.

Alarm clock

Even though you may already rely on your phone’s alarm to wake you up every morning, it also helps to get a regular alarm clock as well. There may be days where you forget to charge your phone and the battery dies overnight, or it breaks down unexpectedly.

Either way, it will be good to have a backup plan in the form of an actual alarm clock, just in case anything does happen to your trusty mobile phone. It also serves as decoration on your bedside table, making it look more polished.

Desk lamp

The biggest priority for students is studying. After school, you are going to spend a lot of time at your desk, doing work. A good desk lamp can help you with those late-night study sessions by protecting your eyesight, and improving your learning efficiency.

Decide if you would like one that dims or aesthetically fits with your room. Most lamps will state the required bulb on the box, making it easy for students to find the right bulbs.

Small rubbish bin

No matter your lifestyle, everyone produces at least a little bit of waste. Purchasing a rubbish bin will make keeping your room tidy much easier. However, it’s advisable that you do not get a rubbish bin that’s too big, as it might take up space in your room and become an eyesore. Tip: never throw away food in your bedroom as it will stink up the room!

Remember, a clean room makes for a healthier life.

Easing homesickness

It’s not uncommon for students living in a new country to feel homesick, and miss the familiarity of their lives in their old homes. What you need to remember is that you are not alone in feeling this way. Here are a few things you can bring with you from home to help you feel a little less lonely.

Photos from home

A good way to keep treasured memories from your life back home is to bring pictures of your friends, family, and loved ones. You can put these photographs up on your new bedroom walls and be able to look at them whenever you are missing their presence.

A childhood toy

If you have grown up having a childhood toy, then you should definitely bring it with you to your new home. Chances are, this toy makes you feel safe and comfortable as its been with you for most of your life. Keeping it by your side will help you get through those lonely nights.

Scented beads/Essential oil reed diffuser

Not only will scented beads or an essential oil reed diffuser make your room smell good, but you can also choose to get scents that remind you of home to help soothe you. These items are better alternatives to scented candles, as candles may burn quickly and prove to be a fire hazard.

This story was produced by Media and Communication students at Trinity College Foundation Studies as part of Meld’s community newsroom collaboration. Education institutions, student clubs/societies and community groups interested in being involved can get in touch with us via meld@meldmagazine.com.au.