Cleaning Supply Checklist for College Students

Sending your child off to college is a proud and exciting milestone, but let’s be honest, it also comes with a little worry. You’ve taught them how to study, manage their time, and cook a few meals… but how about keeping their space clean?

Whether it’s a shared dorm room or their first apartment, one thing is certain: the messes will come. And when they do, your student will be glad you packed them the tools (and the know-how) to handle it.

To help, we’ve created a simple, parent-approved checklist of cleaning supplies and instructions every college student should have to stay on top of everyday messes.

 

Essential Cleaning Supply Checklist

These basics will cover most of what they’ll encounter, from dusty dorm shelves to spilled coffee on apartment counters:

Surfaces & General Cleaning

• All-purpose cleaner (spray bottle)
• Disinfectant wipes (quick for desks, doorknobs, etc.)
• Glass cleaner (for mirrors, windows, and screens)
• Paper towels or cleaning cloths (washable microfiber works great)
• Small duster or dusting wand
• Magic Erasers (great for scuffs and marks on walls or shoes)

Floor Care

• Mini vacuum or handheld vacuum (for dorms)
• Broom and dustpan (for apartments with hard floors)
• Swiffer or mop (if space and flooring require it)

Bathroom Basics

• Toilet bowl cleaner + brush
• Bathroom disinfectant spray
• Shower scrubber or sponge
• Grout-safe mildew spray (if applicable)

Laundry Care

• Laundry detergent (pods or liquid)
• Stain remover spray (for accidents and last-minute fixes)
• Dryer sheets or dryer balls
• Laundry bag or basket

Trash & Odor Control

• Small trash bags (fit for dorm bins)
• Air freshener or odor absorber (especially helpful in shared spaces)

Simple Cleaning Tips to Share With Your Student

1. Make a Weekly Habit

Doing a little each week prevents everything from piling up. Set a day for laundry, wipe down surfaces midweek, and take out the trash before it overflows.

2. Wipe as You Go

Spilled something? Clean it now. A quick wipe with a paper towel or disinfectant wipe goes a long way in keeping things under control.

3. Laundry Rule of Thumb

If it’s been worn twice (or smells like it has), it’s time to wash it. Don’t mix lights and darks if you don’t want everything turning gray.

4. Bathrooms Need More Than Just a Rinse

If they’re sharing a bathroom, they should disinfect surfaces weekly and scrub the toilet every 5-7 days. It’s a small step with a big impact.

5. When in Doubt, Read the Label

Whether it’s a cleaner or a laundry product, instructions matter. Using too much or the wrong type can do more harm than good.

Peace of Mind for Parents, Independence for Students

Packing the right cleaning supplies (and a bit of guidance) is one of the best ways to set your child up for success this school year. It helps create a clean, healthy environment where they can focus on studying, growing, and enjoying the journey.

At Peerless, we’ve helped families keep their homes clean for generations. From emergency cleanups to everyday care, we’re here as your trusted cleaning experts whether your student’s home is across town or across the state.

Wishing all students and families a safe, successful start to the school year. And remember, clean habits start at home.