The world of college dormitory beds… Not so comfortable isn’t it? And mattresses are definitely used. Worse, standard dorm beds look a bit longer or taller than regular twin mattresses.

As a freshman entering college, be sure to have these essentials prepared:

• A good set of bed sheets. Your parents should be aware of what size to purchase. They know that college dorms usually have taller mattresses, at least five inches longer than standard twin sizes. Bargain stores have a lot of properly fitting sheets with simple but decorative designs. They’re mostly of good quality but hoard as much as you need of those made with 200 thread count at least.
• A dust mite protector like a mattress cover or mattress encasement. You will definitely need this as college dorm beds are haven for dust mites. Choose hypoallergenic ones, mattress covers usually are anyway. They are also washable via machine, so it’s easy to care for it.
• A mattress pad for comfort. College dorm beds may have mattresses that are old and lumpy. Adding an extra pad on top should solve the problem of becoming comfortable. Don’t go for cheap ones for this. At least get one that’s trusted when it comes to durability.

Frequent traveler Frank Giotto designed this convenient rest pack he calls the Mini Motel, over frustration brought about by staying overnight at the airports.

The Mini Motel comes complete with air mattress, pillows, bed sheets, reading light, alarm clock, earplugs and eye shades and it fits inside the cabin as luggage. It weighs only 5 lb.

I guess one can use this for camping, too.

Check the Mini Motel for $49.50

Because the sheets include an extra elastic hem sewn around the bed’s dimension, these sheets from Tall Paul is actually tailor made for longer mattresses; one that’s custom made for taller people.

The adjustable bed sheet also has wings or “extra fabric on the side hem of a fitted bottom sheet to tuck in so the sheets do not pull out on the sides when the head or foot is elevated.”

The corners are “anchor tiled” meaning “a heavy duty 2” x 12” strip of elastic sewn diagonally across the bottom of every corner of each fitted bottom sheet.”

Via Tall Paul

Not all regular bed sheets fit into an air mattress as they have the tendency to stay out of place. A specially designed air mattress sheet may be needed and most stores don’t carry anaything for those.

Cozy Town Linens though offer specialty air mattress sheets made from 200 thread count poly cotton blend. Made in the USA, they fit into air mattresses 15″ deep, you wouldn’t have to worry about discomfort from sheets that stay out place.

The air mattress sheets are priced between $60 to $90.

I’ve seen beds without the benefit of a mattress cover. Most of these mattresses still look new, except that the holes and stains are dead give-aways to the fact that the mattress isn’t given care. Mattresses are big investments, and as such, they need to be protected and properly cared for.

The top layer of the mattress is the most vulnerable part. It takes everything — bodily sweats and fluids, dust, wear and tear. Providing a decent cover somehow cushions it, making its quality last longer.

Having a mattress cover is also hygienic. If you are sleeping in the same mattress sans the cover for years and years, think of how much bacteria, dust mites, microorganisms and allergens remain and thrive there.

In choosing the right mattress cover, it’s best to go for materials or fabrics which are most absorbent, as it also helps in providing you quality sleep.

Mattress covers could be anything from mattress protectors, bed sets, bed linens, bed sheets, quilts and other types of beddings.

With mattress covers, you get to enjoy your mattress better and longer.

Photo: Pottery Barn Sheets