I walked into a store last week and found myself lost in multiple aisles dedicated to back-to-school “necessities” for a college dorm room. I’m still in full summer mode, so it’s hard to wrap my brain around anything having to do with back-to-school. I realize that someday in the not-too-distant future, I too will be embracing a dorm room set-up for my own children.
As families send their children off to college it’s important to think about their safety on many levels. Limiting a child’s exposure to toxic chemicals in their dorm room is a great place to start.
By taking the time to purchase non-toxic essentials for your college student’s dorm room you’re helping to foster a healthy few years away from home.
Here are a few areas to focus on when shopping for a non-toxic dorm room
Dorm Room Bedding
It’s hard to believe that we spend almost 1/3 of our lives spent in bed and it’s probably more for a college student! Since we’re spending so much time horizontal it’s crucial to focus on the safety of our bedding.
Many conventional bedding options contain formaldehyde and chemical dyes [1]. Making the switch to organic bedding will help create a safer sleep environment.
While organic can mean pricey, organic bedding doesn’t have to cost a fortune.When looking for those extra long twin sheets for a dorm bed there are a few organic options out there for budget conscious college students.
- Crafts Linen 4 Piece Sheet Set 100% Organic Cotton
(Red $57)
- Crafts Linen 4 Piece Sheet Set 100% Organic Cotton [2]
(White $58)
- Organic Cotton Bed Sheet Set by Organic Textiles [3]
($70)
(Red $57)
(White $58)
($70)PBTeen also has a few organic sheet and comforter options that are priced right.
Personal Care Products
Take the time to find safer personal care products for your college student.
Here are my picks for shampoo [4]and body lotion [5]. I also have a few personal care product favorites [6] that can be found in my bathroom (click on the links for my suggestions).
Laundry Detergent
When it comes to laundry detergents, some really are safer than others [7]. Send your child off to college with one of these brands [8]:
- Better Life Laundry Detergent [9]
contains no harsh chemicals and has a lovely scent that’s not overpowering like so many conventional detergents.
Molly’s Suds Laundry Powder [10]
- GreenShield Organic USDA Organic Free & Clear Laundry Detergent [11]
is a staple in my home. Their products are certified organic, which means that their products must contain 95% or higher organic ingredients.
Reusable water bottle
If your college student hasn’t made the switch to a reusable water bottle [12] it’s time! My favorite is the S’well Teakwood Water Bottle [13]
I also like the Hydro Flask insulated stainless steel water bottle [14]
Towels
Parents secretly hope that their college student showers more than once a month while they’re away at school. Most conventional towels are bathed in chemicals that can be harmful to your body. When stocking up on bath towels for the dorm room try to buy organic when you can.
I really like Magnolia Organics Bath Towels [15]
Do you have any other suggestions for creating a non-toxic dorm room?
P.S. If you liked this post you might enjoy my FREE Groovy Green Livin Newsletter [16]. Receive new posts and special opportunities delivered right to your inbox! Sign up HERE [16].
