Category Archives: College Life

Sleep Tight, Study Right How Sleepwear Affects Academic Performance

As the new school year approaches, parents and students alike are gearing up for a fresh start. While school supplies and study schedules are often top of mind, one crucial aspect that is frequently overlooked is sleep. Quality sleep is essential for academic success, and one simple yet effective way to enhance sleep quality is don the right sleepwear. Let’s explore how comfortable pajamas can play a significant role in improving academic performance.

The Science of Sleep and Learning

Sleep is a vital process that allows the brain to rest, repair, and consolidate memories. During sleep, the brain processes information learned throughout the day, making it easier to recall and apply this knowledge later. Studies have shown that students who get adequate sleep perform better in school, have improved concentration, and exhibit better problem-solving skills.

The Impact on Academic Performance

When students get a good night’s sleep, they wake up refreshed and ready to tackle the day’s challenges. Here are some specific ways that quality sleepwear, by promoting better sleep, can enhance academic performance:

  • Improved Concentration: Adequate sleep helps improve focus and concentration, making it easier for students to pay attention in class and absorb new information.
  • Enhanced Memory: As mentioned earlier, sleep is crucial for memory consolidation. Students who sleep well are better able to retain and recall information, which is essential for studying and taking exams.
  • Better Mood and Behavior: Lack of sleep can lead to irritability and mood swings, which can negatively impact a student’s behavior and interactions with peers and teachers. Quality sleep helps maintain a positive mood and fosters better social interactions.
  • Increased Energy Levels: A good night’s sleep provides the energy needed to participate actively in class, complete homework, and engage in extracurricular activities. Students with higher energy levels are more likely to excel academically and enjoy a well-rounded school experience.

College Students and Dorm Life

Adjusting to college life and dorm living comes with its own unique set of challenges, particularly in maintaining a healthy sleep routine. One simple strategy to improve sleep quality is to wear appropriate and comfortable pajamas. Here’s why this is important for college students:

  • Creating a Sleep-Conducive Environment: Changing into pajamas signals to the brain that it’s time to wind down, helping establish a consistent bedtime routine despite the dorm’s multipurpose nature.
  • Comfort and Temperature Regulation: Dorm temperatures can fluctuate. Breathable, comfortable sleepwear helps regulate body temperature, ensuring uninterrupted sleep.
  • Stress Reduction: Soft, comfortable pajamas provide relaxation and reduce stress before bed, contributing to better sleep quality and improved academic performance.
  • Hygiene and Health: Clean pajamas promote hygiene, prevent skin irritations, and support overall well-being, enabling students to stay focused and energized.
  • Social Considerations: Appropriate sleepwear ensures students are presentable for unexpected social interactions, maintaining comfort and dignity in shared living spaces.

As the back-to-school season approaches, consider the importance of quality sleepwear in your preparations. Investing in comfortable, high-quality pajamas can make a significant difference in your child’s sleep quality and, consequently, their academic performance. By ensuring they sleep tight, you’ll be setting them up to study right and succeed in the new school year.

10 Late Night Snacks for Sweet Dreams and Better Sleep

Late-night cravings can strike at any time, but choosing the wrong snack can lead to sleepless nights. While it’s essential to satisfy your hunger, it’s equally crucial to select snacks that won’t disrupt your sleep. We’ve compiled a list of eight delicious late-night snacks that are not only delicious but also sleep-friendly. Say goodbye to tossing and turning and hello to sweet dreams with these bedtime treats.

Bananas: Let’s start with the classic banana. It’s not just a convenient snack; it’s also a natural source of tryptophan, the amino acid that can lull you into dreamland. Plus, it’s low on the glycemic index, so no sugar rushes to keep you awake. Slice one up or enjoy it as is for a quick and nutritious bedtime treat.

Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt isn’t just a morning thing. It’s packed with protein, and when paired with a drizzle of honey, it becomes a creamy, satisfying treat that keeps your blood sugar steady. The protein in Greek yogurt can help prevent blood sugar spikes, ensuring a peaceful night’s rest.

Cherries: If you’re a fan of fruity snacks, cherries are a sweet option that naturally contains melatonin. Melatonin is the hormone that tells your body it’s time to sleep, making cherries a smart choice. You can have a small bowl of fresh cherries or opt for dried ones for a convenient, sleep-promoting snack.

Oatmeal: Oatmeal isn’t just for breakfast. A warm bowl of oats made with milk is both comforting and sleep-friendly. Oats contain complex carbs that can boost your serotonin levels, helping you relax. You can top your oatmeal with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey for a touch of flavor.

Almonds: If you’re into nuts, almonds are your bedtime buddies. They’re a magnesium-rich snack that can help relax your muscles and improve the quality of your sleep. Just don’t go overboard with the portions; a small handful should do the trick.

Turkey and Cheese: Yes, you read that right. Turkey contains tryptophan, and when combined with a bit of cheese, it makes a delightful duo. Just remember, moderation is the key. You can create a mini turkey and cheese wrap or enjoy them separately for a light, sleep-promoting snack.

Cottage Cheese: Cottage cheese is the unsung hero of late-night snacks. It’s low in fat and high in protein, making it a satisfying choice. Add some fruit or honey for that perfect touch of sweetness. The protein in cottage cheese can help stabilize blood sugar levels, ensuring a peaceful night’s sleep.

Kiwi: Kiwi is a tasty fruit that not only provides a natural dose of vitamins but is also rich in serotonin, which can help regulate your sleep. It’s a low-calorie option that you can enjoy a couple of hours before bedtime.

Warm Milk: A classic choice, warm milk is known for its sleep-inducing properties. It contains tryptophan and can have a soothing effect on your nervous system, helping you relax before sleep. Add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon for extra flavor.

Dark Chocolate: If you’re in the mood for a little sweetness, opt for dark chocolate. It contains less sugar than milk chocolate and offers antioxidants that can be beneficial for your health. Dark chocolate can satisfy your sweet tooth without causing sleep disturbances.

Choosing the right late-night snacks can make a significant difference in your sleep quality. These eight options provide a balance of comfort and sleep-friendly nutrients, ensuring that you satisfy your cravings without sacrificing your rest. So the next time you find yourself craving a midnight snack, reach for one of these options, and enjoy a more peaceful night’s sleep. Sweet dreams!

Creating a Cozy and Comfortable Home Away from Home Dorm Room

As summer days blend into the vibrant hues of fall, it’s time to gear up for an exciting new academic year. College life awaits, and along with it comes the adventure of settling into your very own dorm room. We know leaving the comforts of home can be a bit overwhelming, but don’t worry – we’re here to help you create a cozy oasis right on campus!

Picture this: a dorm room that feels like a warm hug, a familiar nook where you can relax, study, and make unforgettable memories with your new buddies. Yes, we’re talking about turning your dorm into a true home away from home! To get you all set for a successful college experience, we’ve put together a fantastic checklist that focuses on bringing comfort and a sense of belonging to your dorm room. Trust us, you’ll have a blast!

The Ultimate Study Space: Designate a comfortable study area with a plush, ergonomic chair for hours of focused learning. Essential supplies like a desk organizer, post-it notes, pens, and a soft desk lamp create a productive yet cozy environment. A pair of noise-canceling headphones ensures uninterrupted concentration on studies.

Sleep and Relaxation: Let’s turn your dorm room into a cocoon of comfort where shut-eye and comfort are essential for being active and alert in your busy student life. Pajamas will be an important part of your wardrobe (Link to dorm room category if there is one otherwise I think just to the home page) so make sure you have a wide variety of options to choose from because let’s face it…laundry might not always be at the top of your to-do list. So, whether it’s catching up on your favorite shows, hanging out with friends, or simply enjoying some “me time,” PJs will be your go-to companions, and when you pair them with cozy socks, a plush robe and soft slippers you’ll be at the top of your comfort and style game.

Cooking and Dining: Turn your dorm into a culinary haven with essential cooking appliances like a microwave, instant pot (if permitted), small fridge, and coffee maker. These must-haves allow you to whip up simple and comforting meals when dining options are limited. With the right tools, you can recreate your favorite recipes from home, indulging in familiar flavors even while away at college.

Staying Active and Energized: Embrace a healthy lifestyle by bringing along fitness tools that keep you active and energized. Resistance bands, hand weights, a yoga mat, and a medicine ball are perfect for quick and effective workouts in the comfort of your dorm room. For a dose of fresh air, don’t forget to pack a pair of comfortable walking shoes to take relaxing strolls around campus and explore the beautiful surroundings.

Personalizing Space: Infuse your dorm room with your unique personality and style by adding decorative pillows, posters, and wall decor that inspire positivity and creativity. Surround yourself with motivational quotes, artistic prints, and images of loved ones to create a space that feels like your own little sanctuary. Introducing plants and greenery into your living space not only adds a touch of natural beauty but also promotes a sense of tranquility and well-being, making your dorm room a calming oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of college life.

Creating a warm and inviting dorm room ensures you have a sanctuary to relax, recharge, and build lasting memories during your college experience. Embrace the exciting journey of campus living and have a great year!

Five Fabulous Ways to Enjoy Fall Football

Fall is many people’s favorite season. Whether it’s the cooler temperatures, the changing of the leaves, or everything pumpkin spice there’s something about fall that is just warm and inviting. It’s also the time when football returns to stadiums, living rooms, and sports bars all across the country.  Regardless if it’s the Friday night lights at your local high school, supporting your alma mater, or cheering on your favorite professional team, one thing is certain; Americans can’t get enough of this exciting sport!

Going to an actual game and watching in person is something every fan should experience at least once, but it can be very expensive and not practical on a regular basis. It can be just as fun (and with fewer hassles) to get creative on your own and set up the ultimate football lover’s experience. We’ve got 5 great ideas for doing just that!

Outdoor Living Room 1

Set up a backyard living room. Fall temperatures are perfect for hanging out in the backyard with a bunch of snacks, a TV, and your family to watch your favorite team. You’ll get fresh air, you can make all the noise you want, and you don’t have to worry about long bathroom lines! Once the neighbors see how much fun you’re having, don’t be surprised if they bring over their own chairs to join the party!

Homegating

Homegait. One of the best parts about going to the stadium is the pre-game tailgating. The smell of grills cooking and the sound of fans getting ready for the day’s showdown are exhilarating. Recreate that in your own driveway! Invite your friends and neighbors over, set up a big TV, and get the grill going. Make it a potluck where everyone brings their favorite tailgating dish and you’re on your way to a party they’ll talk about all season!

Radio Listen

Listen on the radio. Believe it or not, back in the day, not everyone had a color TV – or A TV for that matter. Take a step back in time and just listen to the game while using your imagination to visualize the action on the field. The announcers that call the games over the radio airwaves are outstanding at making sure you feel the excitement and understand every detail of every play. Make a day of it by taking a drive to see fall foliage while you listen.

Sports bar

Visit a sports bar. There’s something about being surrounded by a bunch of strangers all rooting for the same team that really instills a sense of community. Many sports bars offer drink and food specials so you don’t have to do the pouring or cooking. You can just sit back and watch the plays while others do the work

Family

Have a football pajama party. Weekends are for winding down and there’s no better way to relax than staying in your PJs all day. Order Pizza, plop down on the couch, and get ready for some football. With no distractions, you won’t miss any of the important plays or game winning touchdown!

How do you do football? Tell us here in the comments of head over to our Facebook page and tell us there!

Back to the Dorms: Your 2020 College Checklist

It’s time to start sending your college students back to school. Whereas in most cases students will be returning to campus to restart their education, the college experience overall will be anything but normal. Despite uncertainties about campus life, one thing is sure; everything from classes to social events will be different and your student will have to make the necessary adjustments.

Their living space will be more important than ever before and you want to make it not only comfortable but also practical. To help you plan ahead, we’ve compiled a sort of “go-to checklist” of essentials you should be sending your student back to school with so they can be successful, and adjust to a hybrid academic year.

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Workspace and Supplies: Virtual classes are almost certain to be at least a portion of student learning this year. If the dorm room or apartment your child is living in doesn’t have a desk, you’ll want to make sure that bring one along. And because they will be spending more time than usual at this workspace, a comfortable and ergo-friendly chair will be necessary too. In addition to the furniture, supplies like a desk organizer, post-it notes, pens, a desk lamp, a power strip, and extra batteries are essential to a productive works space. Don’t forget a pair of noise-canceling headphones so they can focus on their studies without interruption.

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Kitchen and Cooking: Dining halls and local eating establishments will have capacity limits and can get crowded during mealtime, so your student will likely be making their own meals much more often. Although you will want to find out what the school allows, most will permit a microwave, a small fridge, a coffee maker, and even a single burner cooktop. Believe it or not, you can do a lot with just a microwave! Make sure they have the right cooking components (utensils, microwave-safe plates/bowls, and pots and pans) to create their culinary delights with as well.

Dorm Kitchen (1)

Sleep and Study Space: As we all know, dorm rooms are far from spacious. With libraries either closed or limiting occupancy, the bed in the room may now also double as a study space. A nice bedding set including a plush mattress topper with a throw blanket will cover the comfort part, but also consider a lap desk, an overhead light, and backrest pillow to make study time most productive.

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Pajamas and Comfy clothes: Spending additional time in the dorm room means there will be more time for casual attire. Pajama sets, lounge pants, PJ pants, and short sets all fit the bill quite nicely. Make sure you have different styles for seasonal temperature changes and variety for at least 2 weeks because doing laundry is typically not a college student’s priority.

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Exercise Essentials: You won’t be able to bring a full gym to school, but a few small pieces of fitness equipment are something every college student should have this year. Because they won’t be walking to class as much and the public work-out areas will be capacity limited- or maybe even closed – students will likely not be as active as they should be. Encourage your student to stay active and provide them with tools to do so. Resistance bands, hand weights, yoga mats, and medicine balls are small and can be stored in a small space. You could also look up some online work-out videos or buy your student a subscription to a website that offers a variety of live online classes. Comfortable walking shoes should also be on the list so during downtimes, they can take a walk, get some fresh air and exercise.

Dorm Room

Room Décor:There’s no place like home never meant more than it does today. Your college student will likely be a bit more homesick this year due to less socializing and get-togethers. Make sure their living space at school is as warm and inviting as possible. A Himalayan salt lamp for example, gives off a warm glow and is also said to have stress-relieving properties and provide a better night’s sleep.  Wall décor, fun accessories, and even plants can really help make a dorm room feel like a second home. As a side note, a vacuum cleaner may be a good idea as well. 

Whether your child is just starting their college career, finishing up, or somewhere in the middle, preparing in advance for the current situation is very important to your student’s success. We wish all students the best of luck in 2020!

Halloween costume ideas with pajamas

10 Best Halloween Costumes Made From Pajamas

How is it already the end of October?! If you’re picking out a Halloween costume by fruitlessly searching for whatever is left in your size, or choosing your kid’s costumes according to whatever is still available with Amazon Prime’s 2-day shipping — you’re not alone!

Even though drugstores started rolling out plastic pumpkins and 20 pound bags of mini candy bars in August (not an exaggeration), those adults and parents who are just slightly less organized still manage to turn the event into a stressful scramble year after year. We’re offering up a solution to this madness: wear pajamas instead.

Why Pajamas Make the Best Last-Minute Halloween Costume

An overwhelming number of Halloween costumes for both adults and children these days are essentially overpriced, cheaply made onesies. Onesies themselves are supposed to be warm winter sleepwear and can be easily zipped over other warmer clothes for a great costume solution. So why not just use the real deal instead? Winter pajamas make great Halloween costumes because they’re semi-homemade, warm, and comfortable. Here are some fun ideas for pajama-inspired Halloween costumes for all ages.

Pajama Halloween Costumes

Easy Pajama-Inspired Halloween Costumes

1. The Lumberjack. Combine your warmest flannel pajamas with a hat, puffer vest, big boots, and a toy axe or faux beard and you’re done! Wear the plaid pajama top and bottoms, or just the top and your most comfortable pair of jeans. 

2. The Big Baby. Want to spend the night in a onesie? Pull on footed pajamas (they come in adult sizes!) and carry a teddy bear with a pacifier clipped to your pajamas. Easy and oh-so comfortable!

holly golightly halloween costume

Nothing says “do not disturb” quite like Holly Golightly’s stylish sleep mask.

3. Holly Golightly from Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Super simple and loaded with sass, adults can wear stylish and flattering pajamas, don a sleep mask, and some ritzy jewelry to play film’s most popular kept woman. Say what you will about Holly, but the woman knew how to lounge. 

4. A Ghost. Halloween and party supply stores may be out of costumes in your size, but they probably have a simple face paint kit or two left. Check out this basic ghost face-paint tutorial and put on a flowing nightgown or cozy white robe for an easy Halloween costume. If it’s chilly, you can wear pants or leggings under your sleepwear! 

5. The Hillbilly. Now is a great time to check out our super fun vintage-inspired flapjack pajamas, in both child and adult sizes. Made of incredibly soft, warm flannel, you’ll be comfortable on even the chilliest fall night. Pair flapjacks with a coonskin cap, boots, and a corncob pipe for a quick “hillbilly” costume.

where the wild things are costume

You have to admit, Max does look mighty comfortable in his pajamas during his adventure.

 

6. Max from Where The Wild Things Are. Yet another simple onesie costume courtesy of everyone’s favorite children’s book. Don a white onesie, purchase an inexpensive gold foil party crown from any part supply store, and find a pin-on animal tale like this one from Amazon.

7. TheCollege Student. Perfect for adults with college-aged kids, dress up as a your son or daughter for halloween in soft, warm flannel pajama pants and and oversized hoodie from their alma matter. Bonus points if you use this pizza tote or takeout purse.

8. Tom Cruise in Risky Business. A super fun costume for both men and women. Slip into a nightshirt, white socks, and sunglasses. Warm up the look on a chilly fall night with nude-colored leggings.

Lost Boys Peter Pan Halloween

The ‘Lost Boys’ would make an adorable and comfortable family Halloween costume.

9. The Lost Boys. If you’d like to get into the Halloween spirit and reach from an obscure, but playful theme, look no further than Peter Pan’s ‘Lost Boys.’ This idea is perfect for a group or family costume. In the Disney original, the kids in the dreamlike world of Never Never Land wore playful animal-themed footie pajamas. Grab a friend with larger Halloween ambitions to be Peter Pan or Wendy.

10. Sleeping Beauty.”  We know Sleeping Beauty as a princess locked away in a tower, waiting for Prince Charming in a full ballgown… but what if we took the phrase more literally? Wear a pajama set fit for royalty and top off the costume with a toy tiara and sash. Cheeky fun!

We hope you enjoy these fun and easy pajama-inspired Halloween costumes for the whole family! For more ideas for Halloween fun, check out The Pajama Company blog at thepajamacompany.com/blog. 

15 Late-Night Snacks You Can Make In A Microwave

Back to College: Late-Night Treats You Can Make in a Microwave

School is back in session. By now you’ve moved into the dorm, unpacked, and are getting settled into your class schedule. Balancing school, your social life, and maybe even your job is a lot to take on. This often leads to evening study sessions, night shifts, or late-night hang outs with friends. Whatever you’re up to in the wee hours, you’re bound to get a craving for a late night snack every now and again.

Don’t let minor details like “not having a kitchen” stop you from cooking up something delicious. Crawl into your favorite pajama pants and give one of these inventive microwave-only recipes a try. We guarantee that you will be equally amazed and satisfied!

Unisex Pajama Pants

Get cozy with a snack and these Unisex Flannel Pajama Pants from Boxercraft.

15 Late-night snacks you can make in a microwave.

1. Chocolate Pudding Cake. Brown sugar in the batter of this classic fudgy cake makes it extra rich and gooey. Swing by your local convenience store and grab your favorite vanilla ice cream to top it with. The longer the cake cools, the more the pudding is absorbed into the mixture. Get the recipe from Food Networkhere.

2. Blueberry Muffin. Fresh “baked” blueberry muffin, cooked in a mug in your microwave! While summer is over, you might still be able to find some reasonably priced blueberries. What we like about this recipe is that it’s actually low-sugar, low-carb, so it’s a lighter choice as well. Get the recipe from The Gingham Apron here.

3. Caramel Popcorn. You read that correctly: perfect caramel popcorn. Hot from the microwave. Each piece of popcorn is guaranteed to be coated with just enough salty sugary sweetness. Best part? Its light and crispy texture. Get the recipe from This Week for Dinner here.

4. Chili Cheese Dip. This is just a friendly reminder that the go-to “microwave classics” are still just as delicious. Whip up a quick 3-ingredient chili cheese dip in a mere 5 minutes. Crack open a bag of tortilla chips and enjoy. Get the recipe from All Recipeshere.

5. Chocolate Chip Cookie in a Cup. That’s right a freshly baked… errr, zapped… ooey gooey chocolate chip cookie, on demand, using nothing but your microwave. The perfect snack to go with a pair of warm footy pajamas and a big glass of milk. Get the recipe from No. 2 Pencilhere.

6. Oatmeal Bars. Great for a late-night snack or a sweet accompaniment to stale coffee, these chocolate-slathered oatmeal bars can be whipped up in just moments. With so few ingredients, it’s pretty easy to keep everything you need on hand. Get the recipe from Taste of Home here.

7. Best Ever Bacon. What about those Saturday or Sunday mornings when you’re craving a hot breakfast but feeling a little… shall we say, under the weather? If you’re not one to make it to the dining hall for breakfast, master this easy how-to for perfectly crispy microwaved bacon. Get the instructions from The Creek Line Househere.

Sushi pajama pants

Unfortunately, you can’t make sushi in the microwave. Satisfy your late-night craving with these sushi flannel pajama pants from The Cat’s Pajamas.

8. Cheesy Vegetable Quiche. Looking for a follow-up dish to go with that perfectly crispy bacon? Why stay in your pajamas and whip up some brunch? These quiche delivers time after time, regardless of the ingredients you choose. Get the recipe from Fresh April Flourshere.

9. Enchiladas. Late night cravings for salty, cheesy, spicy Mexican food can be satisfied with this quick and easy recipe for microwave enchiladas. Ready in just 10 minutes! Get the recipe from Flippin Delicioushere.

10. Chocolate Peanut Butter Mug Cake. This super decadent cake tastes just like a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup and just like the candy, it’s virtually impossible to share. The entire cake is made inside — you guessed it — a coffee mug. Get the recipe from Yammie’s Noshery here.

11. French Toast. Okay, we understand that this one might be hard to wrap your head around but it is possible to recreate French Toast in a microwave… in just 2-minutes! Top with maple syrup and you have a tasty fall treat for any time of the day. Get the recipe from Pretty Prudent here.

12. Peanut Brittle. We agree that at first glance, microwave peanut brittle does sound like it would be a total disaster. However, this recipe turns out beautifully to everyone’s surprise. Just like grandma used to make, but without all the fuss. Get the recipe from Plain Chicken here.

13. Hasty Chocolate Pudding. Have you ever had fresh, hot pudding? It is absolute perfection, especially on a chilly fall night. Pull on your coziest flannel pajamas and curl up with a bowl of this delicious microwave alternative to stove top pudding. Get the recipe from All Recipes here.

14. Scrambled Eggs. Another great side to go with that microwave bacon, scrambled eggs in the microwave is done in as little as three steps and 3 minutes depending on how many eggs you make. Throw in some cheese and green onion if you want to get crazy. Get the recipe from She Pins here.

15. Mac n’ Cheese. This list wouldn’t be complete without the addition of the ultimate late-night craving, mac n’ cheese. This is an awesome recipe for homemade single-serving mac that you can whip up in a coffee mug in the microwave. It’s creamy and delicious and actually better for you than the store-bought microwave variety. Get the easy recipe from Ella Claire Inspired here.

We hope this collection of fun microwave recipes come to your rescue this semester! For more recipes and ideas for fall fun, visit The Pajama Company blog at thepajamacompany.com/blog.

Back to College Pajamas

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

Super Bowl Games You Can Play In Your Pajamas

5 Games to Play During the Super Bowl, If You Don’t Follow Football

Go sports! Do the thing! Make the points! Are you ready to watch that football team that wins a lot play that other team from somewhere else on Sunday? Or is it Saturday? If football isn’t your jam, we feel you. Plenty of people tune in to the Super Bowl (on Sunday) for the big-budget commercials alone.

When you host a Super Bowl party, you inevitably have a mixed crowd. Some partygoers will be avid football fans, others might support a team that didn’t make it, and some people will want to eat bean dip but don’t care about the main event. If you think your guests will be mostly the latter, keep it casual. Throw on your favorite pair of pajama pants and encourage your guests to do the same. Get comfortable and settle in for a relaxed day of games — it’ll give you something to do until until the next commercial!

Super Bowl Pajama Pants

Game day ready in ultra-comfy Boxercraft pajama pants!

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Fall Sleepover Ideas

How to Throw a ‘Pumpkin Spice’ Themed Slumber Party

Three words: pumpkin spice everything. After an absolutely gorgeous summer, fall has finally arrived on the East Coast and temperatures are slowly starting to drop. With school back in session it’s the perfect time for a cozy slumber party, whether you’re in middle school or you’re in college. What better way to celebrate the season than in your favorite pajamas surrounded by all things pumpkin spice?

Not only is pumpkin spice the caffeinated beverage of choice for many this time of year, it creeps into our soaps, candles, and pastries too. The scent makes you feel like you’re hovering over a warm apple pie. To capture this feeling of warmth and comfort we’ve assembled a list of our coziest slumber party must-haves for the perfect fall pajama gathering.

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