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What College Kids Actually Need in 2025: A Parent’s Guide to Dorm Life

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If you went to college in the 1990s or early 2000s, your dorm essentials probably included a landline phone, a stack of CDs, and maybe a lava lamp if you were feeling adventurous. Fast forward to 2025, and dorm life has evolved. Today’s students are navigating shared spaces, hybrid classes, and a whole new level of tech dependency. The lava lamp might still make an appearance, but now it syncs with their phone.

If you’re helping your kid pack for college, here’s what they actually need—and what they’ll likely ignore after the first week.

Tech First, Always: Forget the desktop computer and printer combo. Today’s students rely on laptops, tablets, and cloud storage. A good pair of noise-canceling headphones is essential, especially in shared rooms or study lounges. Portable chargers, smart plugs, and LED desk lamps with USB ports are practical additions. Pack extra charging cables, because they will lose at least one.

Comfort Is King: Dorm beds are still glorified cots, but students have figured out how to make them livable. Mattress toppers, body pillows, and blackout curtains are standard. A cozy throw blanket adds comfort during late-night study sessions or movie nights. Soft textures, calming colors, and anything that makes a small space feel personal will go a long way.

Communal Living Requires Strategy: Shared bathrooms haven’t changed much, but students are more prepared. Shower caddies, flip-flops, oversized towels, and robes that double as hallway coverage are smart choices. A laundry bag with backpack straps makes hauling clothes easier. Cleaning supplies like disinfecting wipes and a small vacuum are often overlooked but incredibly useful.

Dorm-Approved Appliances: Most dorms allow a mini fridge and microwave, and some permit coffee makers or electric kettles. These are game-changers for students who want to avoid the dining hall or just need a late-night snack. A fridge stocked with drinks, fruit, and leftovers quickly becomes a dorm staple. Check with the school’s housing guidelines before buying, but these items are usually safe bets.

The Lounge-Ready Wardrobe: Your student might pack “real clothes,” but what they’ll actually wear most of the time are PJ pants, loungewear, and casual layers. College fashion today is all about comfort that still looks presentable. Soft joggers, loose-fitting tops, and zip-up hoodies work for class, the dining hall, or hanging out in the lounge.

PJ pants, in particular, are a dorm essential. They are not just for sleeping—they are for studying, relaxing, and even running down to grab a package. Look for styles that are breathable, easy to wash, and versatile enough to wear outside without a second thought.

Packing for college in 2025 is less about tradition and more about practicality. Focus on comfort, convenience, and the reality of communal living. And yes, pack lots of PJ’s. They will be worn more than you think.

How to Create the Ultimate Pajama Inspired Gift Basket

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Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, sending a housewarming surprise, or prepping for the coziest holiday season ever, a pajama-inspired gift basket is the ultimate way to say “I care about your comfort.” It’s thoughtful, customizable, and just indulgent enough to feel like a little luxury. Here’s how to build one that feels personal, pampering, and perfectly pajama-themed.

Start with the star of the show: the pajamas. Choose a pair that suits the recipient’s style. Think buttery-soft modal for the minimalist, playful prints for the extrovert, or classic cotton for the comfort purist. Fold them neatly and place them at the center of your basket. If you want to elevate the experience, consider adding a matching robe or sleep mask to round out the set.

Include a candle or two to set the mood. A cozy night in isn’t complete without ambient lighting. Opt for a calming scent like lavender, sandalwood, or chamomile. If you want to go the extra mile, choose a candle with a crackling wood wick or a sleek reusable container. It’s not just about the fragrance—it’s about creating a sensory experience.

Add cozy socks or slippers. Think plush, fuzzy, or even weighted. Include a pair that complements the pajamas or adds a pop of texture. If your budget allows, swap socks for soft house slippers to make the basket feel even more luxurious.

Include bath salts or soaking essentials. Bath salts, bubble bath, or even a shower steamer can bring a spa-like touch. Look for ingredients like Epsom salt, essential oils, or dried botanicals. Package them in a glass jar or muslin pouch for a handmade feel that adds charm and thoughtfulness.

Personalize with thoughtful extras. A mini book of poetry or short stories can add a literary touch, while herbal tea sachets or a cute mug invite quiet moments. A handwritten note with a cozy night-in playlist adds warmth, and a silk scrunchie or hair wrap offers a practical yet stylish detail. These small extras help transform the basket from a simple gift into a curated experience.

Presentation matters. Choose a woven basket, decorative box, or reusable tote to hold everything. Line it with tissue paper or a soft throw blanket. Arrange items with care, placing the pajamas in the center and tucking smaller items around them. Finish with a ribbon or tag for a polished final touch.

A pajama-inspired gift basket isn’t just a present. It’s an invitation to slow down, snuggle up, and savor the moment. Whether you’re gifting it to a friend or treating yourself, it’s comfort, curated.

Bringing Nature Inside with Shinrin-yoku at Home

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You might’ve heard the term forest bathing floating around lately. It sounds kind of luxurious, maybe even a little mysterious. It’s a wellness trend that started in Japan, called shinrin-yoku. And no, there’s no bathtub involved. The practice is all about slowing down and soaking in the natural world with all your senses. It’s not about going for a hike, counting steps, or checking off a self-care box. It’s about letting the textures, scents, and quiet sounds of nature calm your mind and body.

People are talking about it more because, honestly, everyone’s feeling a little frazzled. Shinrin-yoku offers a gentle reset. Not with effort or planning, but with presence. The good news? You don’t need to wander through a forest to feel its effects. You can recreate the mood at home, in your own space, with some simple shifts that feel surprisingly comforting.

Start with light. Think about that soft, dappled sunlight you get under tree branches. You can mimic it indoors using sheer curtains, natural shadows from plants, or warm string lights. The goal is not brightness. It’s atmosphere. A glow that’s easy on the eyes and soft on the spirit.

Then add texture. Nature is layered and imperfect, and your space can be too. Try a bamboo mat under your feet, a linen pillow on your favorite chair, or a woven basket holding pinecones or books. Even just adding a vase with backyard greenery or a found branch makes a difference. These touches ground your space and gently shift its energy.

Sound and scent are worth tuning into. Play a forest-inspired soundtrack in the background — birds, breeze, or trickling water. Let it become part of your surroundings. Add a woodsy candle or a few drops of pine or cedarwood in your diffuser. If there’s a summer storm, crack a window and let nature take over for a while.

And then, comfort. Pajamas absolutely play a role here. The softer, the better. Breathable fabrics can help your body relax and remind you that you don’t need to be anywhere else. Whether you’re sipping something warm, journaling, stretching on the floor, or simply sitting with stillness, pajamas turn those minutes into a moment. They set the tone without saying a word.

Shinrin-yoku at home is casual, intuitive, and completely yours. There’s no wrong way to do it. Light a candle. Sit by a plant. Listen to the rain. Take a deep breath and do nothing at all. It counts.

If summer feels fast and loud, this is your invitation to slow down. Build a patch of peace right where you are. Your mind will thank you. And your pajamas? They’re more than cozy. They’re part of the ritual.

How to Stay Cool All Day and Sleep Better at Night

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Hot days don’t just make you sweat—they wear you down. Staying cool in summer isn’t just about comfort, it’s about working with your body so you can feel good from morning all the way to lights-out.

It starts early. Your body temperature is at its lowest first thing in the morning, which is why those early hours feel a bit more bearable. It’s the perfect time to check off errands or head to naturally cooler spots like the grocery store, farmers market, or even the mall before the rush. A glass of water before coffee helps kickstart your internal cooling system, and wearing loose, light-colored clothes gives your skin a head start against rising temps. And what you eat matters too—heavy breakfasts can raise your core temperature, so fresh fruit or something cold and simple can set a better tone for the day.

By afternoon, things heat up fast. Your body tries to keep you cool by sweating—but that only works if the sweat can evaporate. Tight clothes or synthetic fabrics? They just trap the heat and leave you stewing. If possible, plan your day around shady spots and air-conditioned hideaways: a stroll through a shaded park, a visit to the library, or even ducking into a café with a good fan and better iced tea. If you’re heading to the beach or pool, timing and breathable cover-ups are everything—and don’t underestimate the power of a good umbrella for extra shade. Keep caffeine to a minimum (yep, it actually bumps your body temp), and break up outings so your body gets chances to cool down.

Evenings can be deceiving. The sun’s gone, but buildings, sidewalks, and patios radiate heat well after dark. That said, it’s still a great time to unwind—just pick your cool corners wisely. Catch a movie in an air-conditioned theater, have dinner on a shady patio, or hang out on the porch with your feet up and a fan nearby. A lukewarm shower (counterintuitive, but it works) can help your body shift into chill mode, and cooling your pulse points—like wrists, neck, or ankles—with a damp cloth is a quick and simple trick that actually works.

And finally: bedtime. Your body wants to drop its core temperature to help you sleep, but a hot bedroom—or clingy clothes—makes that tough. This is where your pajamas come in. Breathable fabrics like bamboo viscose, cotton, or anything moisture-wicking can make a big difference. They don’t just feel cool—they help your body regulate heat more naturally, so you can fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.

Cooling down isn’t one big moment—it’s all about little choices throughout the day. And when you close it out in soft, breathable sleepwear that works with your body, you’re setting yourself up for the most comfortable sleep of the season.

The Case for a Midday Siesta and Why Southern Cultures Have Been Right All Along

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Summer afternoons have a way of slowing everything down. The heat settles in, the energy dips, and suddenly the idea of pushing through the afternoon slump feels more like wishful thinking than a real plan. While some rely on iced coffee or sheer determination, others have mastered the art of the midday reset. The siesta isn’t just about catching up on sleep. It’s about working with the natural rhythm of the day instead of fighting against it.

Taking time to pause in the afternoon isn’t just a tradition. It’s backed by science. Studies show that a short break, whether it’s a full nap or just some quiet time, can boost focus, improve mood and help with memory retention. It’s no coincidence that some of the most laid-back yet productive cultures embrace this routine. When temperatures rise and productivity dips, instead of forcing their way through exhaustion, they take a step back, regroup and return refreshed.

Finding the right napping setup makes all the difference. A short nap can be refreshing, but anything too long might leave you groggy instead of energized. The environment plays a big role too. Shade is essential for those who love outdoor lounging. A hammock under a tree, a shaded patio or even a reclining chair by an open window can help create the perfect spot. If the indoors feel more inviting, keeping the room cool and dim helps signal the body that it’s time to relax.

And then there’s what you wear. It’s easy to overlook, but the right loungewear can make a huge difference in whether it’s a restful break or a sweaty toss-and-turn session. Breathable fabrics keep things comfortable and lightweight pajamas designed for warmer temperatures help regulate body temperature so you wake up refreshed instead of overheated. A loose-fitting pajama set or an airy robe can turn a simple midday reset into a truly relaxing experience.

The best part of embracing a midday break is that it doesn’t have to mean actual sleep. Sometimes just stepping away from screens, noise and constant stimulation is enough to feel recharged. Whether it’s fifteen minutes of quiet time, stretching in a sunny spot or simply lounging with a book, siesta culture is about making space for rest when it’s needed most.

Southern cultures have had this figured out for ages. Instead of pushing through exhaustion, they prioritize balance and give the body time to reset. Maybe the rest of the world should start catching up too.

Morning vs. Night – When Do You Feel Most Yourself?

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Some people wake up ready to take on the day, while others come alive the moment the sun goes down. Whether you’re a morning person who thrives on a fresh start or a night owl who finds inspiration after dark, the time you feel most like yourself says a lot about how you operate.

The Morning Energy

Morning people love that quiet, peaceful feeling before the world wakes up. Everything feels fresh, full of possibility, and a little more in their control.

For early risers, routines make all the difference. A slow coffee moment, a sunrise walk, or tackling the biggest task of the day before distractions set in—it’s all about setting the tone. And let’s be honest, lounging in comfy pajamas before fully diving into the day is the ultimate win.

Studies even suggest that morning people tend to make healthier decisions throughout the day. With sleep cycles aligned to daylight, they get more done, feel more energized, and naturally keep their momentum going.

The Night Energy

Night owls, on the other hand, tap into their creativity when the world is quiet. Whether it’s deep conversations, binge-watching a new show, or working on a passion project, everything just flows better at night.

Late-night people love the freedom of no interruptions, no expectations—just space to think, dream, or unwind. And since lounging is a key part of nighttime bliss, a great pair of pajamas makes those midnight moments even better.

Research suggests that night owls tend to be more creative and adaptable. Their brains don’t hit peak performance until later in the day, meaning some of their best ideas happen long after sunset.

Finding Balance in Your Rhythm

Most people fall somewhere in between. You might love slow mornings but also crave peaceful nights. The key is figuring out when your energy is strongest and leaning into it.

If mornings fuel you, embrace them—start the day with something that makes you feel good, whether it’s reading, journaling, or simply enjoying a little extra time in your softest pajamas before the chaos begins. If nights feel more like you, make space for creativity while keeping your sleep schedule in check so exhaustion doesn’t creep in.

Whether you wake up with the sunrise or stay up past midnight, the best part is knowing when you feel most yourself—and enjoying it fully, pajamas included.

The College Homecoming Reset and Navigating the Shift from Dorm Life to Home

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College students spend months in a world of independence, messy schedules, and caffeine-fueled study sessions. Then, in what feels like an instant, they’re back home where bedtime is noticed, dishes are expected to be washed, and their childhood bedroom suddenly feels both familiar and foreign. For parents and students alike, this transition can be surprisingly emotional.

The Dorm-to-Home Transition: What Changes?

Returning home after a semester away isn’t just a physical shift, it’s a reset in routines, expectations, and even identity. College fosters independence, where students manage their own schedules, meals, and sleep habits without much interference. At home, the dynamics shift, often unintentionally, back to high school norms.

Suddenly, mealtimes are structured, mornings start earlier, and parents wonder why their kid who used to wake up at 7 AM is now rolling out of bed at noon.

Why Sleep Schedules Are All Over the Place

College sleep habits are a science experiment gone rogue. Between late-night study marathons, social events, and the occasional 3 AM existential crisis, students quickly adapt to erratic sleep patterns that rarely align with typical family routines.

Parents may notice their child stays up impossibly late, sleeps in long past breakfast, or dozes off mid-afternoon like a jet-lagged traveler. It’s not laziness, it’s just their body recalibrating from months of unpredictable sleep.

Comfort and Familiarity: The Role of Pajamas in the Reset Process

One way to make the transition less jarring is to create an environment that feels welcoming but doesn’t force a hard reset. Encouraging comfort-focused habits like slower mornings, softer routines, and the freedom to recharge can help bridge the gap.

For many students, lounging in familiar, cozy pajamas becomes an unconscious signal that home is a place to rest. Whether it’s staying in comfy sleepwear a little longer in the morning or swapping dorm sweatpants for softer, more breathable pajamas, these small choices help them ease back into home life without feeling like they’ve lost their independence.

Plus, let’s be honest. There’s something nostalgic about wearing pajamas that once felt too “uncool” in high school but now embody pure relaxation after a semester of shared laundry rooms and scratchy twin XL sheets.

How Parents Can Make the Transition Smoother

  • Don’t rush them back into structured routines – their sleep cycle needs time to adjust.
  • Let them embrace home comforts – a fresh set of pajamas or cozy loungewear can subtly signal relaxation.
  • Encourage little luxuries that feel personal – whether it’s upgrading their bedding, setting up their favorite breakfast, or letting them sleep in without guilt.
  • Adjust expectations gradually – the college version of your child is different from the high school version. Let them redefine home in a way that makes sense for them.

The return home after college isn’t just about location, it’s about mindset. Parents and students alike can benefit from easing into the transition, embracing flexibility, and finding new rhythms that work for everyone. And sometimes, that starts with simply letting them stay in pajamas a little longer… a small luxury that feels like home.

Mother’s Day Traditions for Every Generation

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Mother’s Day is more than just a date on the calendar—it’s a chance to honor the incredible women who shape our lives. Whether you’re celebrating mothers, grandmothers, or mother figures, creating traditions that span generations can make the day even more meaningful. Here are some ideas to inspire lasting traditions that everyone in the family can cherish.

The Gift of Time One of the most valuable gifts you can give Mom is your time. Start a tradition of spending the entire day together as a family. Whether it’s sharing a meal, going for a walk, or simply sitting and reminiscing about cherished memories, this tradition transcends material gifts. For larger families, consider hosting an annual Mother’s Day gathering where multiple generations can connect and celebrate the matriarchs of the family.

A Stroll Through the Years Another meaningful tradition is to celebrate Mom through the lens of family history. Pull out old photo albums, home videos, or treasured keepsakes. Let each generation contribute their stories and memories, creating a shared narrative of love and gratitude. This simple yet profound activity helps younger family members understand their heritage while fostering a deeper appreciation for the women who came before them.

Mother’s Day Breakfast in Bed This classic tradition never goes out of style. Start the day by treating Mom to a homemade breakfast served in bed. Enlist the kids to help with preparing pancakes, cutting fresh fruit, or brewing her favorite coffee. Add a personal touch, like a handwritten note or a flower from the garden. It’s a tradition that kids and adults alike can have fun participating in.

Acts of Kindness, Big and Small Use Mother’s Day as an opportunity to spread kindness, mirroring the nurturing spirit of mothers everywhere. Families can come together to do good deeds, such as planting flowers in the community, donating to a local shelter, or volunteering. Involve the younger generation to teach them the value of giving back.

Pajama Family Photos For a unique and playful tradition, consider a family pajama photo shoot. Choose matching or themed pajamas and capture candid, joyful moments together. Over the years, these photos will become cherished keepsakes, documenting the growth of your family and the love you share. Companies like The Pajama Company make it easy to find comfy, stylish options for the whole family!

Pass Down Mom’s Wisdom Create a ritual of sharing wisdom each Mother’s Day. Moms and grandmas can reflect on life lessons and favorite memories, offering insights to younger generations. Pair this with a journal where these words of wisdom are recorded, turning it into a treasured family heirloom.

By starting new traditions or reinvigorating old ones, Mother’s Day becomes more than a single moment—it transforms into a legacy of love and togetherness, carried forward year after year. From a heartfelt breakfast to matching pajamas or a family history walk, these traditions ensure that every generation feels connected and appreciated.

Astrology & Sleepwear: Find the Pajamas Written in the Stars

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Have you ever considered that your zodiac sign might influence more than just your personality and day-to-day decisions? From the way you unwind to the textures and fabrics that make you feel truly relaxed, astrology could play a role in your sleepwear choices. Whether you’re a bold Aries who thrives on statement-making pajamas or a dreamy Pisces who craves silky comfort, your celestial energy says more about your bedtime vibe than you might think.

Let’s explore how your star sign connects to the perfect pajamas for your lifestyle!.

Fire Signs: Aries, Leo, Sagittarius – The Bold & Fiery Dreamers Fire signs are passionate, confident, and always looking for ways to express themselves. Even in their sleepwear, they bring an element of flair—no plain pajama sets here! They lean toward bold prints, luxurious fabrics, and designs that reflect their vibrant spirit. Suggested Sleepwear: Satin sets with animal prints, rich jewel-tone robes, or bright short sets. Aries loves striking reds, Leo radiates gold and sunshine hues, and Sagittarius thrives in deep purples and adventurous patterns

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Earth Signs: Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn – The Comfort Seekers

Grounded and practical, earth signs prioritize comfort and high-quality fabrics that align with their love of luxury and nature. They need soft, durable sleepwear that feels as good as it looks. Suggested Sleepwear: Organic cotton pajama sets, rayon or bamboo fabric loungewear, oversized sleep shirts, and neutral-toned pieces like sage green, warm beiges, and deep chocolate hues. Taurus adores silky elegance, Virgo appreciates practical sleepwear with clean lines, and Capricorn loves timeless designs that never go out of style.

Air Signs: Gemini, Libra, Aquarius – The Free Spirits

Air signs are creative and effortlessly stylish, often seeking sleepwear that’s as versatile as they are. They want something that’s comfortable enough to sleep in but chic enough to lounge in for hours. Suggested Sleepwear: Silky button-down pajama sets, breezy linen comfort, trendy jogger-style pajama pants, or mix-and-match sets that suit their mood. Their color palette? Think fresh pastels, airy whites, and electrifying blues. Gemini loves patterns that keep things fun, Libra gravitates toward aesthetically pleasing sleepwear, and Aquarius embraces modern, unconventional designs.

Water Signs: Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces – The Dreamy Souls

Deeply intuitive and emotional, water signs thrive in soft, comforting textures that help them fully embrace relaxation. Their sleepwear should reflect their love of nostalgia, mystery, and gentle, flowing designs. Suggested Sleepwear: Flowing nightgowns, plush robes, pajama sets in calming shades of blues, lavenders, and deep, moody tones. Cancer finds comfort in cozy materials, Scorpio loves a hint of dramatic flair, and Pisces surrenders to dreamy, whimsical textures like silk and velvet.

Align Your Sleep Style with the Stars

Your zodiac sign isn’t just about personality traits—it’s a gateway to understanding how to create a truly comfortable, restful environment that reflects your natural energy. Whether you embrace fiery confidence, earthy grounding, airy creativity, or water-like tranquility, your perfect pajamas are waiting to bring celestial harmony to your nighttime routine.

So, what’s your sign? And more importantly—are your pajamas matching your cosmic destiny?

April’s Book Club Picks: Stories to Curl Up With

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April is here, bringing us the promise of blooming flowers and the occasional interruption of April showers. What better way to embrace this season of unpredictable weather and tranquil evenings than by getting lost in a good book? Whether you’re cuddled up in your favorite corner on a rainy afternoon or unwinding after a refreshing spring evening walk, these book club picks are sure to keep you company while you’re snug in your coziest pajamas.

1. For the Rainy Days: Immersive Reads to Transport You When the rain is tapping on your window and the sky is wrapped in gray, there’s no better time to curl up with a story that sweeps you away. Consider diving into an enchanting fantasy novel that feels as magical as spring itself—books like The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern or A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness. For those who prefer a dash of suspense, a gripping thriller like The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides will make the rainy hours fly by. Pair these reads with the softest pajamas for maximum coziness, and let the stories take you far from those stormy skies.

2. Spring Evenings: Light and Heartwarming Stories As the days grow longer and the evenings become pleasantly cool, settle into lighter fare that echoes the renewal of the season. Contemporary novels like Beach Read by Emily Henry or The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion offer humor and romance that feels perfectly suited to the gentle buzz of springtime. These heartwarming tales are ideal companions to a breezy evening spent with a cup of chamomile tea and your favorite comfy loungewear.

3. Keeping Busy with Meaningful Reads For those moments when the April rains keep you indoors for longer stretches, why not keep your mind engaged with a captivating nonfiction book? Titles like Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer or Atomic Habits by James Clear are perfect for learning something new while you relax. Tackling these books can be as fulfilling as planting a garden or mastering a craft, and they’ll keep your thoughts blooming even when the weather isn’t cooperating.

The Perfect Complement to Your Reading Sessions What’s a good book without the perfect cozy setup? Make your reading ritual extra special with plush blankets, a steaming mug of tea, and your go-to pajamas—the softer, the better. Not only do they add to the comfort factor, but they also make the transition from day to night seamless, ensuring you’re ready to fall into bed after a few too many chapters.

April is a time for renewal, and there’s no better way to refresh your mind than by diving into a compelling story. So whether you’re escaping into fantastical worlds, laughing through romantic mishaps, or exploring life’s deeper questions, let your April book club picks inspire moments of joy and relaxation all month long. And yes, pajamas will always be the unsung heroes of your reading adventures.