Just because your college living space is unsuitable for a federal inmate, (much less two), doesn’t mean you can’t make it green. As summer comes to an end don’t join your college-bound peers in the annual Bed Bath and Beyond scavenger hunt. Do you really need 25 yaffa blocks, or those terry-cloth throw pillows? Avoid useless junk. It will only block the rearview of mom’s station wagon and overcrowd your cell . . . ahem, dorm room.

For small living spaces—and the environment—less is always more. Of course there are a few essentials you’ll need to survive. Sheets, towels, and a desk lamp are necessary, but a mini fridge is indispensable.

Stay tuned! Over the next week I’ll walk you through a comprehensive guide to getting ready for college . . . eco-geek style.

1. Bedding
Whether or not you want to admit (frat boys I’m talking to you) you need sheets. As lazy as you may be, sleeping on a bare mattress is uncomfortable and down right unsanitary. Please buy sheets, but why buy regular sheets when you can buy “interesting sheets”. . . like these (pictured below) made from eco-conscious fibers such as bamboo and organic cotton.

Posted on August 23rd, 2007 by Olivia Zaleski