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. 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 (White $58)
• Organic Cotton Bed Sheet Set by Organic Textiles ($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 and body lotion. I also have a few personal care product favorites 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. Send your child off to college with one of these brands:

• Better Life Laundry Detergent contains no harsh chemicals and has a lovely scent that’s not overpowering like so many conventional detergents.
• Molly’s Suds Laundry Powder  is amazing. This detergent doesn’t contain harsh chemicals, dyes and synthetic fragrance, toxins, preservatives, and GMOs.
• GreenShield Organic USDA Organic Free & Clear Laundry Detergent 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 it’s time! My favorite is the S’well Teakwood Water Bottle. The bottle keeps your drinks cold for 24 hours and hot for 12 hours. It’s made from stainless steel and is non-toxic, non-leaching and BPA free. For every bottle sold, S’well will plant one tree through the American Forests Foundation. They are a bit pricey, coming in at close to $40 for a 17 oz water bottle.

I also like the Hydro Flask insulated stainless steel water bottle ($28) which comes in a wide variety of matte colors and the exterior never sweats. The insulated stainless steel water bottle keeps drinks cold for up to 24 hours and hot for up to 6 hours. As added bonuses, Hydro Flask comes with a lifetime warranty and donates 5% back to a charity of your choice.

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 and the price is right ($17).

Do you have any other suggestions for creating a non-toxic dorm room?

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