Sometimes, it’s hard to part with your teen’s childhood toys, books, and clothes, especially when taking the next step in their young adult life. Once they receive their acceptance letter, this is the perfect time to sort through and clean out your college-bound child’s room.As they pack their luggage and set aside their dorm essentials, create a donation pile and help them clear out any unwanted items in their room.
Start With the Closet
If you don’t know where to start, begin by tackling the closet. Encourage your child to sort through their clothes and donate items they’ve outgrown or haven’t worn in years. Keep only the essentials they’ll need for college, like everyday wear and cold-weather jackets.
Go Through Old Toys
While some treasured items may hold sentimental value, old childhood toys may no longer serve a purpose in your young adult’s life. Donate their used toys safely to organizations in your area that accept gently used items. This way, you can clear out space in their room and give back to your community.
Sort Through Books and School Supplies
Sort out the bookshelves to clean out your college-bound child’s room. Keep a handful of cherished childhood books for memories, and consider donating the rest to local libraries or community centers. Also, dispose of any outdated papers or school supplies, but keep anything they may need for college prep.
Create Memory Boxes
For items they can’t take to college but don’t want to part with, create memory boxes. This way, you can use labeled containers to store keepsakes such as trophies, photos, or childhood artwork. Also, if you find anything worth keeping, consider displaying it around your home on walls and bookshelves to keep you company while they’re away.
Deep Clean the Room
Once the clutter is gone, take the time to give the room a deep clean. Wipe down surfaces, vacuum carpets, and wash any linens left behind. A fresh, clean room gives your kid a welcoming space to return to during breaks.
With this new open space in their room, consider how you’ll keep it occupied while they’re away. Whether you convert their room into a guest bedroom or preserve it just how they left it, be sure to dust and vacuum the area frequently to keep it clean. With these maintenance tips in mind, your child will have a rejuvenated space to return home to at the end of the semester.
