08/31/2026
Before you start loading the car: a few things I’d think about for my college kid that probably aren’t on the standard dorm checklist.
As a naturopathic doctor and a mom, these are some of the practical things I’d consider beyond the sheets, shower caddy and mini fridge.
1. AIR PURIFIER
If your child has allergies, asthma or is sensitive to dust, consider a HEPA air purifier. Dorm rooms can be dusty, and you have little control over what was in the room before them.
2. HUMIDIFIER
Dorm heating and AC can make the air surprisingly dry. A small humidifier may help with dry skin, lips, nose and throat. Just make sure they’ll actually clean it regularly.
3. MATTRESS COVER
Put a mattress protector on before the sheets. If your child has dust-mite allergies, consider an allergen-barrier encasement.
4. WATER
A water filter/purifier can make staying hydrated easier. Not because dorm water is necessarily unsafe, but because if they don’t like the taste, they may simply drink less.
5. SLEEP
New roommate. Noisy hallway. Different schedules. Late nights. Early classes.
A sleep mask, earplugs or white-noise machine can be surprisingly valuable.
6. “MOM ISN’T HERE” KIT
Think thermometer, basic first aid, their usual medications, allergy medication, electrolytes and blister care.
7. SMALL VACUUM
Dust, crumbs, hair and allergens happen. A small handheld or stick vacuum is much easier to use in a dorm room.
8. HAVE THE CONVERSATION
Make sure they know where the campus health centre is, where the nearest pharmacy is, who to call if they’re sick and when they should seek medical care.
Because you’re not just packing a dorm room.
You’re giving them the tools to take care of themselves when you’re not there.
From one mom to another: save this before you load the car.
StudentWellness
