College Bound in 2025: Tips for Keeping Your Dorm or Apartment Clean & Organized

Heading off to college is one of the most exciting transitions of your life—but it can also be one of the messiest. Between classes, part-time jobs, late-night study sessions, and spontaneous trips with friends, keeping your dorm room or apartment clean can quickly fall to the bottom of your to-do list. Yet, a tidy living space isn’t just about looks—it can improve your focus, reduce stress, and even help you stay healthier.

If you’re a student in Indianapolis heading to IUI, Butler, or Marian University—or moving into a shared apartment near Broad Ripple, Castleton, or downtown—you’re about to juggle independence, academics, and a busy social calendar. With a few smart habits and a little help from The Dust Devils, you can keep your space clean without it eating into your precious free time.

Here are our top tips for maintaining a clean, organized space all semester long.

1. Create a Realistic Cleaning Routine

College life is unpredictable—so your cleaning schedule needs to be realistic, not perfect. Instead of overwhelming yourself with the idea of cleaning “everything” every day, focus on small, consistent actions. Make your bed each morning, wipe down your desk before studying, and dedicate 15 minutes twice a week to quick resets.

Dust Devils Pro Tip: Pick two “anchor days” each week (maybe Sunday before classes and Wednesday midweek) for mini clean-ups. Put on music, set a timer, and stick to the basics—trash, surfaces, and floors. You’ll be surprised how much better your space feels.

2. Declutter Before It Piles Up

Dorm rooms and small apartments fill up fast. Between free event T-shirts, extra notebooks, and random snacks from late-night runs, clutter can sneak up on you. Make it a habit to do a quick declutter session every couple of weeks.

Dust Devils Pro Tip: Try the “One In, One Out” rule. If you bring something new into your space—whether it’s a hoodie from the campus bookstore or a new coffee mug—something else needs to go. It’s the easiest way to keep your limited space feeling fresh and functional.

3. Use Storage Creatively

When you’re working with limited square footage, smart storage is your best friend. Use bed risers to create extra space underneath for bins, invest in a hanging shoe organizer (it works for snacks too!), and use wall hooks for bags and jackets.

Dust Devils Pro Tip: Keep your most-used items within arm’s reach and store seasonal or less-used items in labeled bins. You’ll spend less time hunting for things and more time enjoying them.

4. Make Cleaning a Group Effort

If you have roommates, cleaning should be a team sport. Create a chore chart, rotate responsibilities, and communicate openly about shared spaces like kitchens and bathrooms. This keeps resentment from building and prevents anyone from doing all the work.

Dust Devils Pro Tip: Treat cleaning time like a mini social event—order pizza, blast a playlist, and knock it out together. You’ll get the job done faster and have fun doing it.

5. Keep a “Reset Kit” Handy

Instead of digging for supplies when you spill coffee on your desk or drop popcorn under the bed, keep a small “reset kit” nearby. Stock it with disinfecting wipes, a handheld vacuum, paper towels, and a multi-surface spray.

Dust Devils Pro Tip: Keep this kit somewhere visible. When it’s easy to grab, you’re more likely to do a quick clean instead of letting small messes pile up.

FAQs for College Cleaning Success

How often should I clean my dorm room or apartment?

Aim for small daily habits (like making your bed and wiping down surfaces) and deeper cleaning once a week. Consistency is more important than perfection.

What’s the easiest way to keep shared spaces clean with roommates? 

Communication is key. Set expectations early, assign rotating tasks, and agree on basic rules like “clean as you go” in the kitchen.

How do I manage cleaning with such a busy college schedule? 

Use short bursts of cleaning—10–15 minutes at a time—and pair them with existing routines, like tidying your desk before studying.

Is it worth hiring a cleaning service as a college student? 

Absolutely—especially if you live in an off-campus apartment. Services like The Dust Devils can handle deep cleaning so you can focus on your studies and social life.

What should I clean the most often? 

High-touch surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and your desk should be cleaned frequently. These spots collect germs fast, especially during cold and flu season.

How do I keep my space smelling fresh? 

Regularly empty the trash, wash bedding weekly, and open windows for fresh air. Adding a small air purifier can also help in dorms or older apartments.

Why Choose The Dust Devils for Your College Cleaning Needs

Whether you’re moving into a freshman dorm at Butler, renting a first apartment in Broad Ripple, or living in a shared house near the University of Indianapolis, The Dust Devils can help you keep your space clean, comfortable, and guest-ready. We know college life is busy, so our flexible cleaning services are designed to fit your schedule and budget. From deep house cleanings before move-in to monthly refreshes, we take care of the mess so you can focus on making the most of your college experience.

📅 Ready for a stress-free semester? Book your college cleaning with The Dust Devils today at www.indydustdevils.com and keep your space in top shape all year long!