Moving into university accommodation is a big step, and for many students, it’s their first experience of living away from home. While this newfound independence is exciting, it also comes with responsibilities. Learning how to live with other people, manage shared spaces, and stay on top of your academic work can be challenging. That’s why we’ve compiled this comprehensive list of household tips to help you transition smoothly into student life.
Student houses and university halls often develop a reputation for being messy. The truth is, without a system in place, chores can quickly pile up. One of the best ways to stay on top of cleanliness is by creating a cleaning rota. This ensures that everyone has a fair share of responsibilities and that tasks are not neglected. However, it only works if everyone sticks to it consistently.
Before you move, take some time to familiarise yourself with the basics of cleaning. Knowing which cleaning products are best for various tasks is essential. Using the wrong products could damage surfaces or be ineffective. Our article on The Best Way to Clean Your Bathroom is a great place to start.
It’s also wise to prepare for the less glamorous aspects of shared living. Invest in household gloves and durable bin liners. You’ll likely be faced with some unpleasant cleaning tasks at some point, and these essentials will make your life a lot easier. When it comes to taking out the bins, try to do it regularly to avoid overflowing waste and unpleasant odours.
If there's one thing that surprises new students, it’s how quickly the washing up can build up. It’s easy to say, “I’ll do it later,” but before you know it, the kitchen is full of dirty dishes. Make it a habit to wash your dishes straight after using them. Not only will this keep your kitchen more hygienic, but it also shows respect for your housemates.
Need a refresher on proper washing-up techniques? Our Guide to Doing Dishes has got you covered. Also, bear in mind that space is often limited in student kitchens. A collapsible dish rack can help with drying your dishes and can be easily stored when not in use.
One essential skill to learn before heading off to university is how to do your own laundry. Understanding how to sort clothes by colour, what temperature to use, and which detergents to use will help you avoid ruined clothes and expensive mistakes.
Most university halls have shared laundrettes, so it’s helpful to have a laundry basket or bag with handles to make carrying your clothes more manageable. Try to schedule your laundry to avoid peak times when everyone else might be using the machines.
Student accommodation is often prone to damp and poor ventilation, which can make drying your clothes indoors difficult. If you have access to outdoor drying space, use it as often as you can. When drying indoors, ensure the room is well-ventilated. Open windows and consider using a fan or a dehumidifier to prevent mould build-up.
Limited space is a common issue in student rooms. Smart storage solutions can help you make the most of the space you have. Under-bed storage containers are a great way to store out-of-season clothes or extra bedding. They keep things out of sight and free up room in your wardrobe.
Decorative storage boxes are another useful solution. Not only are they practical, but they can also help personalise your space and make it feel more like home. Use them to organise your desk supplies, toiletries, or study materials, and your room will stay neat and functional.
Moving to university is a big life change, but with a little preparation, you can make the transition much easier. Learning the basics of housekeeping, from cleaning and doing laundry to staying organised and respectful of shared spaces, will set you up for a more comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Don’t forget to check out our Student Bedroom Essentials to ensure you’re fully prepared for the year ahead. With the right mindset and a few practical tips, your university accommodation can feel like a second home in no time.
