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How to Recreate the Comforts of Home in a Dorm Room

How to Recreate the Comforts of Home in Your Dorm Room

Your first college dorm room is often the first time many you experience the discomforts of adulthood in your young life. You’re crammed into a tiny box with white washed cement walls with a complete stranger. This shared space is a far cry from the comfortable and familiar home you came from.

Many college freshmen end up sending half a carload of stuff back home, overestimating the amount of space they’ll be granted. While it’s important to pack light, and seasonally, there are a handful of items that will make your brief stay in this little cell far more enjoyable.

Unisex Back-to-College Pajama Pants

Boxercraft Red and Black Plaid Flannel Pajama Pant

10 Tips to Make Your College Dorm Feel Like Home

1. Maximize Closet Space

One thing you have at home that you definitely will not have in college is space. Going home for Thanksgiving? Bring your summer wear and forgo packing every little layer you own. When you head home for Turkey Day, plan to check your bag and swap your light clothing for sweaters, jackets, and scarves. Another simple, inexpensive closet solution are vertical hangers — small hanging strips of hooks that allow to hang up to 8 articles of clothing vertically, utilizing all your closet space.

2. Soft Lighting

Rather than make use of the harsh, fluorescent overhead ceiling lights, it’s worth it to make a little room for a nice desk lamp with a “warm” bulb — one that diffuses a warm yellow glow instead of a harsh, bright white glare.

Fuzzy Friends 'Unicorn' Slippers from Aroma Home

Fuzzy Friends ‘Unicorn’ Slippers from Aroma Home

3. Slippers or Slipper Socks

What’s that weird stain on the carpet? Why is the linoleum floor perpetually sandy no matter how much you Swiffer? No need to care if your feet never touch the floor. Even if you weren’t into slippers at home, now is the time. College dorm rooms are notoriously disgusting, collecting decades of grunge that no amount of elbow grease will lift. A comfortable pair of slippers or a few pairs of slipper socks will go a long way.

4. Mattress Pad

No matter what you decide to bring, definitely opt for a high-quality mattress pad — one that will last you the full four years. The mattress you will sleep on is absolutely older than you. Serta makes extra fancy mattress pads that will provide you with a layer of its signature memory foam for a plush sleeping experience. A good night’s sleep is critical to performing at your peak, so don’t pass on this advice!

5. Oversized Coffee Mug

Think about items that could serve multiple purposes. A bowl-like coffee cup will get a lot of use over four years, for way more than coffee. It could also be a ramen bowl, a cereal bowl, hot chocolate mug, a Chex Mix holder, or heck eat a slice of pizza out of it — whatever. One of those and a spoon, fork, and knife are all you’ll need in a limited space.

'Malibu Plaid' Unisex Flannel Pajama Pants from Boxercraft

‘Malibu Plaid’ Unisex Flannel Pajama Pants from Boxercraft

6. Pajama Pants

Pajama pants are not just for sleeping! Keep in mind that you’ll likely be rolling out of bed and sprinting to class in these, so you’ll want to have pajama pants with some style. Check out our back-to-college style guide for inspiration.

7. Induction Cooktop

Many college campuses have banned hot plates, so if you’re craving a hot meal — especially during cold winter months — and the cafeteria isn’t an option, you’re out of luck. Induction cooktops don’t actually get hot. They heat the cookware on top of the cooktop. Now you can enjoy a bowl of ramen without burning the dorm down.

8. Tapestry

Posters are the classic way to cover those unsightly white concrete walls. For a softer homey look opt for a tapestry instead. They come in so many colors and styles that guys and girls with varying tastes can find something that suits them. Tapestries are large expanses of patterned fabric that will immediately soften the look of your dorm room cell, and diffuse that harsh fluorescent lighting.

9. Room Dividing Curtain

Thanks to Amazon, you can easily find 1000 dorm room privacy solutions, including an awkward but efficient twin-sized over-bed tent to zip yourself into. A great solution if you or your parents are handy, is a neutral-colored room-dividing curtain. They come with a heavy-duty tension rod (like a shower rod on steroids) and a heavy fabric that will provide floor-to-ceiling privacy as long as you can hang it between two walls. There are also hospital style room dividers that involve screwing a track into the ceiling. You will want to get approval from both your roommate and your RA before implementing.

'Fluffy Black Sheep' Fleece Robe by Munki Munki

‘Fluffy Black Sheep’ Fleece Robe by Munki Munki

10. Plush Bathrobe

You have no control over the fact that you have to share three grimey shower stalls with 40 other college freshman, but you can control how you feel while you’re walking there! Invest in a plush bathrobe that makes you feel warm, cozy, and comfortable. And shower sandals. Definitely don’t forget the shower sandals…

Embrace every pajama-filled, pizza-laden, coffee-saturated, sleep-deprived moment of your college experience and good luck to the class of 2022! For the latest back-to-college tips, visit us at thepajamacompany.com/blog.

Just Pajama Pants for Back-to-College

Summer Lounging: 12 Mocktail Recipes to Stay Hydrated

It’s August and it’s hot. Long, hot, humid summer days can have the same effect on us as a blistering cold winter day and we go into a hibernation of sorts. We recline on the couch with a good book and the A/C blasting, recline in a rocker on the porch, or find a nice shady spot in the park to take a nap. Summers are ideal for lazy afternoons spent lounging in your flimsiest, featherlight cotton pajamas.

The heat zaps both the energy and the water from our bodies. Even if you’re relaxing in air conditioning, it’s more important than any other time to stay hydrated. This replacing skipping a “refreshing” mojito or ice cold beer with a few glasses of ice water every now and again. If you want to enjoy a seasonally festive beverage while warding off heat stroke, give these healthy mocktail recipes a try.

Munki Munki Champagne Dreams Pajama Set

Munki Munki Champagne Dreams Pajama Set

Healthy and Hydrating Summer Mocktail Recipes

1. Raspberry-Lime Rickey Slushies

This recipe calls for gin, but the liquor can easily be omitted for a refreshing summer mocktail. Raspberries’ juicy, sweet flavor peaks from late june through August, so this sweet frozen treat is in season. Get the recipe from myrecipes.com.

2. Cucumber-Mint Limeade

There are few things more refreshing than the combination of fresh cucumber and cool mint. This limeade recipe leverages both in a perfectly balanced summertime cocktail that’s fit for sipping in a shorty robe on your back porch. Get the recipe from intheraw.com.

3. Green Juice Cocktail

This resort-ready green juice mocktail is from The Ranch, a world-renowned detox spa and fitness center — so pull out your eye masks and unwind. Melon and apple add a natural sweetness, celery and ginger add a detoxifying bite, and sparkling water gives the beverage a cocktail-esque fizz. Get the recipe from Popsugar.

4. Sweet Heat Arnold Palmer

This is a spicy twist on the classic lemonade-iced tea hybrid. The addition of a habanero chile balances the sweetness in this summer favorite. The recipe calls for quite a bit of sugar, so experiment with reducing the amount by at least a third to make it a more healthful beverage. Get the recipe on myrecipes.com.

5. Black Cherry Basil Mocktail

This fruity, refreshing drink takes the edge off even the hottest summer days. The fresh basil offsets the sweetness of the black cherry in this mocktail, creating a killer combination that you won’t be able to stop sipping. Get the recipe from wickedspatula.com.

Munki Munki Strawberry Pajama Set

Munki Munki Strawberry Pajama Set

6. Frosted Strawberry Limeade

Summer is for lounging and it’s also for frozen drinks! Rather than treating yourself to a well-tequila mix in the frozen drink machine at your local watering hole, why not treat your body right with this Frosted Strawberry Limeade. This smoothie, loaded with goodies like frozen strawberries, banana, and cashews, would make for a great meal on a hot afternoon. Get the recipe from Healthy Happy Life.

7. Blood Orange and Ginger Soda

Mint is, without a doubt, one of the most refreshing flavors in anything — especially a cold beverages. The combination of cool mint with the heat of ginger and the sweet tang of blood oranges makes for a perfectly balanced glass. Get the recipe from my recipes.com.

8. Copa Verde Mocktail

This is another mocktail that could double as lunch on a sweltering summer day. Avocado, fresh herbs, and refreshing lime are blended and spiked with ice cold club soda for a healthy, delicious treat. Perfect for sipping in your favorite summer pajamas on a Saturday night in.  Get the recipe from The Merry Thought.

9. Tomato Peach Spritzer

You read that correctly. This is probably what “V8 Splash” was going for when they launched their brand… Veggies and fruits combine in this surprisingly delicious mocktail. Tomatoes, peaches, ginger, and ginger ale make this drink an ode to summer. Get the recipe from Vegetarian Times.

10. Ginger Beer Mojito

Enjoy the mojito without the hangover. This recipe calls for rum but it can easily be omitted. The key to making this recipe work is high quality ginger beer. Fentiman’s is a great brand. Get the recipe from Gimme Some Oven.

11. Aqua Fresca Trio

These are the perfect drinks to serve at a summer afternoon gathering or non-boozy brunch. Loaded with colorful fresh fruit, these mocktails as a beautiful as they are delicious. Whether you choose the strawberry lemon fizz, citrus peach spritzer, or coconut raspberry lemon, each of these options has Summer written all over it. Get the recipes from Healthy Happy Life.

12. Strawberry Orange Mango Kombucha Mocktails

Using kombucha instead of alcohol makes this drink immune-system-and-belly-friendly, since the brew is packed with probiotics. Mangoes are also loaded with healthy, delicious fiber. This is truly a mocktail you can feel great about. Get the recipe from The Roasted Root.

For more summer recipes and ideas for fun in the sun visit The Pajama Company at our blog, thepajamacompany.com/blog.

Cool Cotton Pajamas for Summer

11 Best Summer Beach Reads

11 Best End-of-Summer Beach Reads

It’s never too late for rest and relaxation. We may have past summer’s halfway mark, but there is still plenty of time squeeze in a “beach read” (or a “rainy summer afternoon in your pajamas” read). If you’re the type of reader who reads in short, sporadic bursts — instead of cover-to-cover in a week or less, consider short stories.

Short stories aren’t just for kids and teens. There are many classic and contemporary short story collections that allow readers to complete a narrative in one sitting. These are our favorite short story collections for your end-of-summer beach read.

Munki Munki Blue Pajama Set

Munki Munki “Deep Sea Whales” Cotton Jersey Classic Pajama Set

Best Short Story Collections for Your Next Beach Read

1. Runaway by Alice Munro (2004)

This list is starting out strong: Munro won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2013 for her extraordinary work as “master of the contemporary short story. She also won the 2009 Man Booker International Prize for her lifetime body of work and has been called the modern-day Chekhov. Runaway is among her best collections, effortless shifting across decades. Munro has the remarkable ability to convey an entire life in a few pages.

2. Pulse by Julian Barnes (2011)

Barnes is best known as a novelist and won the Man Booker Prize in 2011 for The Sense of an Ending (sensing a theme here?). His collection of short stories, Pulse, is brilliant — steeped in social nuance and colorful details. Two particularly excellent examples from this collection are “Complicity,” about the start of a love affair, and “East Wind,” about a relationship between an estate agent and a foreign waitress. Perfect content for a beach read.

3. Kiss Kiss by Roald Dahl (1960)

Everyone knows his peerless children’s books, but did you know that Roald Dahl writes adult fiction that is equally vivid and… well… wicked and a little unsettling? The stories in Kiss Kiss are brilliantly unnerving and considered a “masterclass” in the form. This collection is is a wonderful way to see Dahl in a new light.

4. This Isn’t The Sort of Thing That Happens to Someone Like You by Jon McGregor (2012)

Set in the UK — in Norfolk and Cambridge — this collection of stories will haunt you for months. McGregor has a knack for elevating everyday occurances, turning them into small, perfectly rendered pieces of art. As one review in the Guardian noted, “The stories wrap themselves around the wholly disconcerting premise that catastrophe can rear up in anyone’s life without warning.”

5. Tenth of December by George Saunders (2013)

Winner of the Folio Prize for fiction, Saunders is, according to Entertainment Weekly, “the master of joy bombs: little explosions of grin-stimulating genius that he buries throughout his deeply thoughtful, endless entertaining flights of imagination.” Written with a mix of humor and humanity, this collection is ideal for readers who want to smile and be moved.

The Cat's Pajamas Pink Shorts Set

The Cat’s Pajamas Women’s Tahiti Palm Knit Shorts Set

6. A Life of Adventure and Delight by Akhil Sharma (2017)

Like Alice Munro, Akhil Sharma has also been likened to Chekov. A truly epic writer, Sharma’s stories in this collection feature Indian protagonists, both in India and abroad, carefully exploring complex relationships with their families, partners, and selves in flawless short form.

7. Will You Please Be Quiet, Please? By Raymond Carver (1976)

Carver’s classic 1970s collection is perfect for people who like a writer who uses one word instead of 12. Known for his short, punchy prose, Carver conveys in a few words what many novelists take several pages to express. In stories such as “Fat” and “Are You a Doctor?” he writes with flat understatement about suburban disenchantment in mid-century America. This particular collection was shortlisted for the National Book prize and was written during what Carver called his “first life,” when he nearly died of alcoholism.

8. There Are Little Kingdoms by Kevin Barry (2007)

If you’ve ever read Kevin Barry’s work before, it’s clear that he takes joy in story-telling — a joy that is palpable in his writing. It’s well, fun, to read authors that are clearly having fun. While the stories themselves are not always “joyous” — there are plenty of tales of lost souls and misfiring Irish families and friendships — this is funny, stirring writing from a unique talent.

9. Interpreter of Maladies by Jhumpa Lahiri (1999)

Another prize winning read. This collection of nine stories by Lahiri won the Pulitzer Prize shortly after it was published and was named New Yorker’s debut of the year. The New York Times described the stories as containing an “uncommon elegance and poise.” The narratives explore the Indian-American immigrant experience and the alchemy of love and relationships.

10. A Selfie As Big As the Ritz by Laura Williams (2016)

Get lost in this contemporary collection by Laura Williams, a smart and funny writer who uses details that other writers would overlook, losing their punch. One critic wrote, “I admire that at the core of each story, Williams sticks to the familiar. Her writing however, her style, are anything but.” The stories aren’t a stretch and are easy to grasp, but presented in a new and entertaining format. Especially relatable for readers of a younger generation, but timelessly enjoyed.

11. The Love Object by Edna O’Brien (2014)

Edna O’Brien is a critic favorite and considered one of the great modern Irish writers. This collection spans five decades of brilliant short story writing from O’Brien whose prose style is among the most celebrated of any living author. Her characters range from lonely nuns to single mothers to modern millionaires and are consistently remarkable. Perfect stories for the beach, on the couch, or if you’re tucked in bed for the night with a cup of tea. Good luck putting this one down.

For more ideas for rest and relaxation this summer, visit The Pajama Company at our blog, thepajamacompany.com/blog.

Cool Cotton Pajamas for Summer

7 Tips for a Restorative Summer Staycation

It’s fun to dream of vacations on warm, distant shores, but the reality for most is that these vacations are too expensive. You still deserve time off to recuperate from workplace stress, even if you’re unable to “get away.”

In fact, a staycation — taking time off, but staying at home — is arguably more relaxing and restorative than traveling. You do not have to schedule transportation, pack, spend time in crowded airports, or deal with the frustration of delayed flights. Here are our tips for making the most of your precious downtime.

Rest, Relaxation, Pajamas: How to Plan a Summer Staycation

1. Complete Your ‘To Do’ List

The key to a successful staycation is to take steps to ensure that you will use this time to relax, not catch up on chores. Pile of dishes in your sink? Dirty laundry? Lawn need mowing? Clean your home in advance and take care of any other nagging items. You should be resting, not powering through a task list a mile long! Imagine that you are leaving for a vacation and get everything out of the way so you can relax.

2. Unplug and Power Down

No email for you! Whether you’re on a staycation or a vacation, power down and unplug all of your devices. At the bare minimum, set specific times each day when you’re allowed to glance at your phone or return calls. Save work email for work. This is your time to focus on you.

3. Plan Your Activities in Advance

To prevent yourself from slipping into old habits, plan out each day of your staycation. Are there days when you’ll be mostly at home? What are you going to watch on Netflix? What book are you going to read? Or are you going to get out and about? Museum visits, hiking trails, a yoga class? Pretend you’re a travel agent and create an itinerary for yourself. This will make your staycation feel “official” and keep you from using this time to catch up on work.

Boxercraft Women Shorty Robe

Shorty Robe from Boxer craft

4. Dress for the Occasion

No staycation is complete without the appropriate loungewear: pajamas, bathrobe, slippers — you know the drill. We might be a tad biased, but comfortable clothing is not an option! When you’re relaxing in your home, you need to lounge in spa-like comfort. Your pajamas should be made from soft, cool cotton. Bathrobes should be big, warm, and fluffy. Your slippers should make you feel like you’re walking on pillows. We’re supposed to dress how we want to feel, so dress comfortably.

5. Explore

Just because you’re on a staycation, doesn’t mean you have to stay in your house. Depending on how much time you can take off, plan a few outings. Think about nearby museums, historic sites, art galleries, hiking trails, beaches, or scenic drives. Sometimes we take our own surroundings for granted because they will “always be there.” Get out and explore your immediate world. You might be surprised what you find.

6. Bucket List

A fun idea for a staycation is to do that one thing you’ve been meaning to do. Get back into painting. Read a series of classic novels. Take a cooking class. Meditate. Write. Learn Italian. This is a great time to start a passion project and really devote yourself to it. Having hobbies and learning new skills increases our happiness.You’ll return to work feeling light and energized.

Cat's Pajamas Toile Pajama Set

Safari Toile Luxe Pima Cotton Set by The Cat’s Pajamas

7. Simply Rest

This sounds simple, but is often the hardest thing for us to do. Use this time to go to bed early, sleep in late, take naps, and spend plenty of time doing nothing. Take long baths and lounge in your pajamas. Go to a park and soak up some sun. Make sure your brain gets plenty of down time too. We live in a world that encourages us to be stimulated constantly. You’ll feel much better after you take a little break.

For more ideas for rest and relaxation this summer, visit us at thepajamacompany.com/blog

Cool Cotton Pajamas for Summer

11 Best Summer Sleepover Ideas

11 Summer Sleepover Themes

School is out and the kids are home! By now you have probably compiled a list of summer boredom busters or are desperately searching for easy ideas to entertain your kiddos. Whether they are at home or bouncing in between daycare or summer camp, you’re going to have to burn that energy every weekend!

The best way to get kids to wear themselves out is with each other. Why not team up with other parents and take turns hosting sleepovers throughout the summer? The kids will have a blast and the parents will get a break. Here are a handful of simple summer sleepover ideas for guaranteed pajama fun!

Big Feet Kids Pajamas for Sleepovers

Kids Dinosaur Union Suit from Big Feet Pajamas

Best Summer Sleepover Themes

1. Under The Sea

Do you have a “Little Mermaid” at home? If so, you can’t go wrong with a classic princess theme with an under sea twist. Strategically hung blue, green, and gold streamers will create a magical kelp forest. Play Caribbean music and games, like limbo. Give the kids crowns and tritons so they can pretend to have underwater adventures! Of course, when it’s time for a movie, only one will do.

2. The All-American

What’s more American than hot dogs and apple pie? Baseball. Set up T-ball for little ones in the backyard and serve up dogs, fries, and apple pie (store bought is great — we won’t tell!). After the kids put on their pajamas, pop in The Sandlot for evening entertainment. Good all-American fun.

3. Christmas in July

Kids love this surprising, topsy turvy theme! Great for a heat wave, pull out some Christmas decorations and embrace winter in July. Lower the A/C and pull out lots of snuggly blankets, twinkle lights, and hot chocolate. Have the kids watch Elf or Frosty the Snowman in their flapjacks — a guaranteed giggle fest!

4. Roughing It

Kids love to play pretend. Set up a tent in the backyard so they can “go camping.” Roast marshmallows over the grill to make s’mores. Play flashlight tag and tell scary stories. When movie time rolls around, have them bring their sleeping bags inside and watch Open Season.

5. Berry Bake-Off

Berries are finally in season! Take the kids strawberry or blueberry picking or just pick up a few cartons in the store. Look up an easy no-bake recipe for little ones to try, like whipped cream berry parfaits, or make hand pies with older kids. The goodies will be a fun treat to enjoy during an evening showing of Ratatouille.

Munki Munki Goldfish Pajamas for Sleepovers

Goldfish Long John Set by Munki Munki

6. Waterpark

Create a water park in your backyard using sprinklers and a slip n’ slide. The kids will wear themselves out quickly running around in the sunshine. They’ll be more than ready to curl up in their pajamas and watch Finding Nemo at the end of the day!

7. Garden Party

If there’s one thing kids love, it’s getting their hands dirty! Inexpensive pots, soil, plants, and seeds will provide lots of gardening fun! Pick up popsicle sticks and have the kids make and decorate tags identifying the name of their plant. Consider fall plants that the kids can start sprouting now and plant later at home. After they’ve washed their hands and put on their PJs, pop in Zootopia (the main character’s parents are farmers!) or James and the Giant Peach.

8. Moana Dance Party

Two themes in one! It’s hard not to boogie to the incredible Moana soundtrack. Create a Pandora station based on the music and the station will automatically play similar kid-friendly tunes. Throw in grass skirts, leis, glow bracelets (for bioluminescence in the “Realm of Monsters”) and you’ve got yourself a super fun dance party! Be sure to show the movie at the end of the day after the kids settle down.

9. Pirates of the Caribbean

Kids love a scavenger hunt! Set up a pirate themed treasure hunt in your backyard. Consider small toys and chocolate gold coins as the big prize! “Capture the Flag” is another great option. The kids will have a blast swashbuckling in pirate hats with foam swords. When it’s time for bed, show Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean or for little ones, the animated classic, Peter Pan.

10. Pool Day

For the tween set who is “too cool” for themes, consider a “pool day.” There are many inflatable pool options that are great for lounging in. Set up magazines, sunblock, music, water guns, or nail polish for a relaxing day of fun in the sun. Depending on age, movie options could include Hotel Transylvania, Dunstin Checks In, or Blue Crush.

11. Frozen Karaoke Party

For the kids who can’t get enough music, how about a karaoke party with a Frozen theme? Kids karaoke machines are relatively inexpensive or you could just play fun Disney soundtracks on Pandora or Spotify. Once the kids are in their jammies and tucked in for the night, play Frozen for one more round of sing-along fun.

For more ideas for summer family fun, visit The Pajama Company at our blog, thepajamacompany.com/blog.

15 Summer Boredom Busters for Kids

15 Summer Boredom Busters for Kids

“I’m bored!” says every child three days into their summer vacation. While it’s not our job as parents to be cruise directors, here we offer alternatives to the default response of “Go outside and play!” Unlike elaborate Pinterest-inspired activities, we tried to keep this list to activities that most children could do without too much adult intervention. Of course, please use your best judgement when selecting activities that are both safe and age appropriate for your kiddos!

Screen-Free Summer Activities for Kids

1. Water Balloon Fight

Why a water balloon fight vs. a squirt gun fight? Time! The kids will have a blast filling and making the balloons… which also incidentally kills more time. If you’re worried about clean up and the environment, know that you can find biodegradable water balloons — 500 for less than $10!

2. Sidewalk Chalk Obstacle Course

Have your kids devise an “obstacle course” with sidewalk chalk. It could be one that they skip, hop, and jump through or use with their bikes, trikes, or scooters. This activity is a great way to get them to use their imagination and get some exercise!

3. Sprinkler Fun!

Sprinklers are a classic summer boredom buster for kids! A great alternative to splashing in a pool, running through a sprinkler will amuse your kids for hours, especially when you combine the activity with others like water balloons and squirt guns. Inexpensive and quick to set up, apart from supervision, this activity takes minimal effort.

4. Sun Tea

Sun tea is a quick and easy activity that is especially amusing for the younger set. Select a tea with a vibrant color, preferably a fruit tea, like passionfruit, peach, or mango. Place several of the bags in a large, clear, glass pitcher or mason jar for a big batch. Fill it up with water and set it in the sun to “brew.” After an hour of playing, the kids will return to find a brightly colored pitcher of tea waiting for them — made by the sun!

5. Plant and Bird Identification

Plant identification is a great activity for younger children who are excited about reading and science. Give them a plant or bird guide that is specific to their region and encourage them to find and identify different birds, flowers, shrubs, or trees in either their backyard or a local park. Increase the “science” factor by giving them magnifying glasses or binoculars to examine their finds with more detail!

Summer Boredom Busters for Kids

Can’t go camping without the right gear! We love these matching Lazy One flapjacks!

6. Backyard Camping

Can’t drive out to the wilderness for the weekend? Camp in the backyard! Have the kids set up a tent, wear their favorite pajamas, and sleep outside in the great outdoors. Even if they’re not keen on spending the night outside, they’ll have a blast pretending to camp all day long. Perfect for kids who enjoy imaginative play.

7. Nerf Blaster Target Practice

If your kids love Nerf blasters, set up “target practice” outside. Give them plastic cups to stack and knock over. Another option is to have them draw and hang paper targets. If they’re of the age where they enjoy competition, encourage them to keep score and practice their math skills while they’re at it!

8. Dominoes

Another old school rainy day classic, find dominoes and teach your kids how to set up trails of falling dominoes. Look at YouTube videos of dominoes falling to get inspiration for epic examples of what people have created. Take videos of the final result and maybe post it on the web for other domino enthusiasts to enjoy!

9. Make Popsicles

Popsicle molds are pretty common these days and can purchased on Amazon or in stores like Target or Walmart. While there are a lot of “recipes” for popsicles that involve fresh fruit and a blender, simplify the activity by purchasing an armful of fruit juices. Have kids combine their favorite juices into fun new flavors!

10. Crayon Rubbings

Send your kids outside with pad of paper and a box of crayons. Show them how they can make “rubbings” of their favorite leaves and flowers to create fun and original artwork. Simply place the leave under a piece of paper and lightly add pressure with the crayon to create an imprint of what is beneath. Works best when you take the wrapping off the crayon and rub lengthwise.

11. No-Bake Baking

It’s too hot outside to turn on the oven! Search the web for “no-bake desserts.” Since these recipes don’t involve an oven, they’re often easier for younger children to make from start to finish. Great for building kitchen skills and confidence!

12. Make Collages

Drawing, coloring, and painting are a great way to pass the time. If you have a lot of magazines and junk mail, give the kids some age-appropriate scissors (or help them cut!) and encourage them to enhance their artwork by collaging.

13. Squirt Gun Painting

Using squirt guns, water, and food coloring, your kids can make paintings outside. Set up large pads of paper at a distance and fill various water guns with different colored water. Let them fire away and create!

14. Water Xylophone

Fill several tall glasses with various amounts of water. Using a spoon, tap each glass. Show your kids how filling the glasses with more or less water creates a different sound. This is a fun way to experiment with music in your kitchen!

Summer Boredom Busters for Kids

This goldfish pajama set from Munki Munki is perfect for playing in pillow fort!

15. Living Room Fort

In many regions, summer has no shortage of rainy days! When your kids are trapped inside, let them build the living room fort of their dreams: no chairs, bedding, or pillows are off-limits! They’ll have a blast building the cozy castle of their dreams. Later that night, host a family pajama party in their “new home inside of home.”

For more ideas for summer family fun, visit The Pajama Company at our blog, thepajamacompany.com/blog.

9 Surprising Things That Are ‘Made in America’

The Fourth of July is right around the corner! Celebrate America’s Independence Day with these fun ‘Made in America’ facts. Contrary to popular belief, there are many, many brands and products that are still manufactured right here in the good ol’ US of A. As an informed consumer, it’s a good idea to understand where the products you purchase come from and who they support. Take a look at the list below — we’re sure some of these brand names will surprise you!

Daisy Alexander Pajamas are Made in America

Daisy Alexander pajamas are Made in America.

Products You Never Knew Were ‘Made in the USA’

1. Crayola Crayons (and everything else!)

The crayons that you grew up with and love are still made in the USA. Crayola has expanded into thousands of other kid-inspired art supplies that go way beyond washable crayons, markers, and pencils. However, the company is still known for its iconic crayons — and Crayola certainly makes a lot! Crayola makes 650 crayons per minute and over 13.5 million each day!

2. Duraflame Logs

If you don’t have a fireplace or go camping, you might not know this, but Duraflame is the household name in the firelog market (yes… there is a firelog market). These handy logs are great for those of us who want to enjoy the warmth and beauty of a crackling fire without all the kindling, shredded newspaper, and sooty hands. Duraflame’s manufacturing plants in California and Kentucky employ 200 Americans, who make 14,000 miles of firelogs each year!

3. Post-Its

Post-Its that you buy in the US and Japan are 100% ‘Made in America.’ In fact, the Post-It became so popular that in 1985 3M, the company who owns the Post-It brand, ceased manufacturing copiers and overhead projectors to become the chief manufacturing plant for sticky notepads — talk about going all in! Today 3M sells more than 4,000 unique Post-It products in over 120 countries and employs over 35,000 people.

4. Pyrex Glassware

Corning, based in Corning, New York, started making Pyrex nearly 100 years ago. When the company sold Pyrex to another corporation in 1998, many feared that the American product would be manufactured overseas. Much to everyone’s surprise, World Kitchen ensured that Pyrex oven-safe glassware would continue to be manufactured in the same Pennsylvania plant where the product has been created since the 1940s.

The Cat's Pajamas Made in USA

The Cat’s Pajamas has been making products in the USA for two decades.

5. The Cat’s Pajamas

For 20 years, The Cat’s Pajamas, an eclectic California-based pajama company, has been making their fun and luxurious pima cotton PJs in the USA and shipping them around the world. Proudly “California Top to Bottom,” the company’s designers, textile artists, and the people who sew every stitch are based in California.

6. KitchenAid Mixers

Yes, the most iconic American kitchen appliance is still 100% manufactured in America. KitchenAid Mixers were known for their signature cherry-red hue, but are now manufactured in a rainbow of colors and shipped around the globe. The product has been made in the same Greenville, Ohio plant since 1941. The plant employs over 700 people and can turn out up to 7,000 mixers per day!

7. Sub-Zero Refrigerators

Another kitchen mainstay, especially in luxury homes, the Sub-Zero Refrigerator has been manufactured in Madison, Wisconsin since 1945. Since Wolf Appliance acquired the family-owned business, they kept the plant in Wisconsin and opened up two more in Kentucky, employing 1,000 more people!

8. Wilson Footballs

Does this get any more American? Wilson footballs, the American football, still makes its leather game balls at a dedicated facility in Ada, Ohio. The facility makes 700,000 footballs per year — all by hand! Wilson is the official game ball supplier to the NFL. Something to think about as your throwing a ball around during your Fourth of July barbeque!

BedHead Pajamas Made in America

BedHead pajamas have been made in California for 20 years.

9. BedHead Pajamas

Another 20-year old brand, BedHead pajamas founder Renee Claire has been personally designing each collection for the company since its inception. 100% made in the USA, BedHead pajamas are designed and sewn in California. The brand is fun, flirty, and relaxed. A perfect embodiment of the laid-back Cali lifestyle.

All of us at The Pajama Company wish you and your family a safe and happy Fourth of July! Like many Americans, we look for opportunities to support the American worker and American entrepreneur. We’re proud to tell our customers about the brands we carry that produce 100% of their merchandise in the United States.

For more inspiration for family activities, summer recipes, or fun gift ideas, visit us at thepajamacompany.com/blog.

Pajamas Made In America

What to Wear Camping

11 Must-Have Summer ‘Glamping’ Essentials

“We should go camping!” exclaims your friend / roommate / significant other and before you know it (before you’ve had your coffee) you shout, “YES! We should TOTALLY go camping!” Three clicks and a rental car later, you made plans to spend the weekend in the great outdoors.

Sleeping under the stars… or on the ground in a hot tent surrounded by bugs… isn’t for everyone, but glamping certainly is. Glamping is short for “glamorous camping” and the concept inspires even the most hardened indoor cats to venture into the wilderness. The idea behind glamping is to make the experience as relaxing and restorative as a night in a hotel. Here’s how.

11 Must-Have Summer Glamping Essentials

Turn Camping into ‘Glamping’ with the Right Gear

1. Effective “Dry” Insect Repellent

If you’re not a fan of the outdoors, this is not the time to try an “all natural” bug spray made of essential oils and unicorn tears. This is the time to stock up on products like OFF! Deep Woods Dry. Bug spray may not sound like “glamping” gear, but the less time you spend tending to mosquito bites and swatting at gnats, the more time you spend enjoying the outdoors. Dry repellents last for 8 hours, aren’t greasy like typical sprays, and are safe to use on your clothing and tents! Make your weekend a bug-free zone.

2. Starter Logs

It’s cute that your partner wants to show you how they learned to make a fire in Scouts over 20 years ago… but on the off chance they’re a little rusty, pack starter logs. Starter logs will have you enjoying perfectly toasted marshmallows in a matter of minutes. Brands like Enviro-Log are safe for the environment and burn clean without all the chemicals.

3. “Fold and Go” Propane Camping Grill

You won’t want to start a bonfire every time you want to enjoy a hot meal. Make mealtime easier with an inexpensive, lightweight “fold and go” propane grill. They pack away neatly, are easy to carry in a backpack, and simple to clean and maintain. These grills are the difference between eating a granola bar for breakfast or savoring a hearty meal of bacon and eggs.

4. Reliable Cooler for the Champagne

With the right cooler or ice chest, you can keep food cold for up to 4 days! Don’t limit yourself to canned food, dry goods, and water. Pack your favorite meats, cheeses, and beverages and enjoy them all at a refreshing temperature. You can’t go glamping without the mimosas!

Light Summer Pajamas

It’s heating up! We adore this cotton pajama set from The Cat’s Pajamas.

5. The Perfect Camping Pajamas

You won’t feel glamorous sliding into your sleeping bag wearing the the same T-shirt you’ve been wearing all day, smelling of sweat and bug spray. Drift off to sleep in a silky, lightweight pajama set that will breathe through even the most humid summer nights. Check out our most popular light, breezy summer pajama sets for inspiration.

6. Air Mattress, Blankets, and Plenty of Pillows

Even the cushiest sleeping bag won’t save your spine from the uneven dirt floor beneath your tent. Splurge on a battery-operated pump for an air mattress. Go ahead and bring sheets, blankets, and plenty of indoor and outdoor pillows to turn your tent into a cozy den of comfort. Don’t forget LED-powered lanterns and battery-operated fans for an extra-luxurious experience.

7. Dry Shampoo and Other Creature Comforts

If your campsite is especially “rustic,” you’re going to need to pack basic creature comforts to live your glamping dream. If there is no running water, bring plenty of moist wipes to freshen up between deodorant applications. Wash your hair with a luxurious dry shampoo before bed, so you can hit your pillow with that “fresh blowout” feeling.

Give a Bathrobe and an At-Home Spa Day for the Holidays 2017

Kashwere Super Soft Shawl Collared Robe

8. A Plush, Luxurious Bathrobe

Even without running water, you can feel instantly cozy in the soft, cocoon-like arms of a high-end bathrobe. Wrap up in your robe at the end of the day, while you read in your tent. Be comfortable during cool early mornings, snug in your robe, sipping coffee brewed over an open flame. The perfect bathrobe instantly elevates any outdoor experience from camping to “glamping.”

9. Entertainment of Every Kind

We know, we know. You’re outdoors, so you should be stargazing and hiking and frolicking in fields with fawns and singing birds… but two or three days in the woods can get a little dull. There’s nothing wrong with bringing a fully charged tablet and watching a movie in the comfort of your pillow-stuffed tent. Of course, bring plenty of board games, card games, books, or magazines for non-electronic entertainment too!

10. The Hammock

Can you really call it “glamping” without a hammock? Don’t forget this absolutely essential piece of glamping equipment. Hammocks are the best way to lounge outdoors. They are easily packed and easily installed between two trees at any campsite. You can even find folding hammocks that pop up independently, without screwing bolts into trees.

11. Elevated S’Mores

We have nothing against Hershey’s, but if you want to take your camping experience from rustic to elegant, start with the s’mores. Instead of the standard Hershey’s milk chocolate, try incorporating bars of artisan chocolate with your graham crackers and toasted marshmallows. Artisanal chocolates come in flavors like candied orange peel, spiced chili, cinnamon, and lavender. This is a simple way to add a touch of luxury to any gathering around a bonfire.

For more ideas for outdoor fun for the whole family, visit us at thepajamacompany.com/blog.

The Absolute Best Last-Minute Father’s Day Gift Idea

If Father’s Day snuck up on you (again), don’t panic! While you might not be able to snag a reservation at a steakhouse this late in the game, you can give dad a gift he’s guaranteed to love: the gift of relaxation. If dad works all day and picks up a second shift as Superdad all night — cooking dinner, helping with homework, wrangling kiddos at bathtime, or scaring away monsters under the bed — he’ll appreciate having the house to himself in his favorite pajama pants on Sunday.

Here’s The Pajama Company’s simple five step guide for planning the best “day off” for dad. No advanced reservations required!

Kasher Super Soft Collared Robe from Pajama Company

Kashwere Super Soft Bathrobe — featured on Oprah’s Favorite Things!

How to Plan the Most Relaxing Father’s Day for Dad

1. Give the gift of comfort!

Let dad know your plans for Father’s Day the night before. Then surprise him with something comfortable to spend the day in. He’ll want to put his feet up, so consider a luxurious bathrobe, pajama pants, fun pajama set, or silly T-shirt — a thoughtful little present he can lounge in all day long.

2. Make a plan for the kids.

Have a late breakfast together, so dad can sleep in. The kids will be eager to give dad their gifts and he’ll get plenty of Father’s Day hugs before you depart for the day. Plan to spend the afternoon out. Take the kids to a playdate, the park, a movie, an arcade, to visit their grandparents… anything to keep them busy for the day so dad can have the house to himself on Father’s Day.

3. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner is served.

What’s Father’s Day without steak? Steak and eggs for breakfast sounds super fancy, but it’s a surprisingly quick and easy meal to make. Other easy breakfast ideas: Easy Steak & Egg Bake or this epic “breakfast hoagie” that can be made on a baguette to feed a family! Since you’ll be out for most of day, keep it simple and have all his favorite sandwich fixings ready to go in the fridge: cured meats, cheeses, quality bread, and all the toppings! For dinner, consider firing up the slow cooker or reheating a no-fuss pre-made dish like baked ziti, chili, or a frozen pizza.

Dad T-Shirt for Father's Day

A super T-shirt for Superdad! This fun shirt from LA Imprints makes a great Father’s Day gift. Only 8 left!

4. Everything within arm’s reach.

For an extra-thoughtful touch, set up his favorite spot on the couch so everything is within arm’s reach: his favorite drink, slippers, an assortment of snacks, books, magazines, newspaper, and the remote of course! Be sure to include a comfy pillow and a blanket as well. If you want to be cute, throw in an eye mask for that inevitable afternoon nap! He’ll appreciate that you remembered his faves and went the distance to ensure a day of complete relaxation.

5. Dinner and a movie.

When you return from your day out, simply reheat dinner and settle in with newly “zenned-out” dad. Continue the pampering and let him pick a movie for the family to watch or pick a game for a game night. If you opted not to give him a gift yet, this would be the perfect time to surprise him with matching family pajamas (the family that lounges together…). Whatever you choose to do on Sunday evening, spending a relaxing night with his favorite people beats a crowded steak house every time. For more gift ideas or inspiration for family activities, visit us at thepajamacompany.com/blog.

Father's Day Gift Ideas from The Pajama Company

7 Father's Day Activities for the Whole Family

7 Father’s Day Activities for the ‘Fun Dad’

This Father’s Day, we’re celebrating Fun Dads! There are dads and then there are fun dads. Fun dads have an extra cheesy dad joke for every situation. They make matching family T-shirts, show off their dance moves when they chaperone prom, and get overly competitive on game night (especially during high-stakes Candyland). There’s no rope swing too high, no rollercoaster too fast, and no such thing as too much ice cream for these “big kids.”

Show the ‘fun dad’ in your life how much you appreciate his willingness to go the extra mile to bring a smile to his kid’s faces. On Father’s Day, tackle these activities with same childlike enthusiasm that he would.

Father's Day Gift Ideas

Munki Munki Dino Bikes Matching Pajama Set

Fun Father’s Day Activities for the Whole Family

1. Cornhole Tournament

For the competitive dad who likes to spend time outside, spice up your father’s day BBQ with a cornhole tournament. A cornhole set makes a great gift for the dad who likes to host friends and neighbors while he grills. Invite other dads in the neighborhood over to celebrate. If cornhole isn’t his jam, consider other classic lawn games like ladder toss, horseshoes, or croquet.

2. Roller Rink

Give him the gift he really wants: the chance to embarrass his kids in public. Take dad back to middle school and plan a family trip to a roller rink. Cheesy pop music, bright lights, and a disco ball are all a ‘fun dad’ needs to get his roller-groove on!

3. The World’s Largest…

Is dad the one who can’t go on a road trip without stopping at every advertised attraction? Whether it’s a national historic site or the largest ball of yarn, indulge his childlike curiosity by finding your nearest, weirdest, wildest roadside attraction and take the family on a mini road trip. Get dinner in the town or city you’re visiting and toast his adventurous side!

Father's Day Activities He'll Love

Show your love for Star Wars in this matching Munki Munki R2D2 Pajama Set.

4. ‘Dad Movie’ Marathon

What’s his poison? Spaghetti westerns? 80’s classics? Die Hard? Cheesy horror movies? Show your love for dad by enduring three of his absolute “worst” favorites. In addition to popping popcorn, have a selection of classic movie theater snacks on hand like Milk Duds, Raisinettes, and Dots. If you want to really knock his socks off, present the family with matching pajamas so you can lounge in style!

5. Trampoline Park

For the families with little ones, trampoline parks are guaranteed to tire them out! Trampoline parks are large indoor spaces covered in wall-to-wall trampolines. Many have separate areas for adults and older kids and little ones. Take the family for a day of jumping around. You’ll be surprised by how much fun you have!

6. Arcade

For the fun dad who is a gamer at heart, visit an arcade on Father’s Day. He’ll love getting competitive with his favorite little buddies. There are plenty of ‘Chuck-E-Cheese’ alternatives these days. For example, Dave and Buster’s is a chain restaurant and sports bar with a ‘Friday’s’ feel that also has arcade games. This way mom and dad can take a break from gaming and enjoy a drink while the kids keep themselves amused!

7. Outside-the-Box Mini Golf

Did you know that mini golf isn’t mini golf anymore? While the classic shoot-a-golfball-through-the-windmill is a blast, now there are a lot of variations on the family favorite. You can play indoor glow-golf, virtual golf, or go to a new kind of driving range called ‘Topgolf’ where you can rent a bay by the hour and enjoy cocktails, food, and games.

At the end of an exciting day of celebrating and family fun, dad’s going to want to relax. Surprise him with a new robe or a comfy pajama set before he settles in for the night. For more gift ideas or inspiration for family activities, visit us at thepajamacompany.com/blog.