Living on campus means showering in the dorms, maintaining your own growing and personal care supplies (Mom won’t be buying your toothpaste anymore), and keeping on top of the best grooming and shower supplies — without breaking the bank. What do you absolutely need to have in your shower caddy and what can you forego? Do you really need seven different types of hair gel? What kind of shower sandals is best? Where do you hang your poof? Personal grooming takes on a whole new meaning at college, so prepare yourself.

• Size Matters: Dorm rooms are small, so every square inch counts. Too much only leads to clutter and confusion — make a list and bring only what is needed.
• Shared Space: Living in close quarters with total strangers can be a lot of fun, but it also requires some planning and preparation. Sharing a room is one thing, but sharing a toothbrush is quite another. Avoid unpleasant mishaps and inadvertent mix-ups by selecting easy-to-identify items in bright colors or patterns.
• Community & Co-Eds: Part of college life is making new friends and being part of a great community of scholars, athletes and others that share your interests. It also means meeting a lot of people unexpectedly when your roommate drops by with a few friends or you just happen to have a fire drill at 2 a.m. Keep a few quick fixes on hand so you’re always prepared to look great in two minutes or less. You never know who you might meet!

When it comes to bathing and basic daily preparation, the list might appear intimidating. But don’t worry — chances are you already own many of these items and the majority of the remaining items are affordable. Use this quick checklist to take care of all your bath needs:

• Flip-Flops or Waterproof Sandals: For use in the shower and swimming pool, these are a “must have” for every dorm dweller. The last thing you need is an ugly case of athlete’s foot during midterms.
• Shower Caddy: Conveniently carry soap, shampoo and other shower-related items. Search for a distinctive color to make it easy to identify your personal grooming set then stock it full of soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, shaving accessories and other personal care items.
• Microfiber Towel or Hair Wrap: These super absorbent towels are a great way to get dry fast on those busy days without dripping through the hallways.
• Bath Sheets, Washcloths and Fluffy Scrubby: Just because you live in a dorm doesn’t mean you have to spend the next four years scrimping. Bring along a few plush bath sheets and super-soft washcloths or a posh scrubby. It’s a good idea to have a few spares on hand to last until the next laundry day.

While it might be tempting to try something new, it is actually a good idea to stick with tried and tested beauty products before leaving for college; it helps reduce the risk of allergic reactions or other potential problems associated with change. Whenever possible, bring things from home or purchase the same brands and products you have used in the past.

• Hair: Comb, brush, hair dryer, curling iron and gel might be all you need, but a cap or quick clips for the gals never hurt anyone. With a little practice you can fall out of bed and make it to class on time without anyone ever knowing you were asleep just 10 minutes ago.
• Grooming: Deodorant, shaving products, body lotion, sunscreen, tanning lotion and toothpaste are essentials. In fact, it’s a good idea to keep extra on hand just in case new roommates weren’t quite as prepared.
• Cosmetics & Fragrances: Bring along your favorite perfume, cologne and cosmetics with a variety appropriate for sports, formal and day-to-day casual wear.
• Miscellaneous: Lint brush, tissues, extra clothes hangers and disinfectant wipes can do wonders.

And don’t forget these medicine cabinet essentials: prescription medications, vitamins and over-the-counter drugs that you may take, such as allergy relief, aspirin or other common items. It’s also a good idea to have a copy of your medical records sent to the student health center or other medical provider in advance.