The FSU Winter Break Apartment Checklist: What to Do Before You Go Home
The semester is over, and it’s finally time to head home for the holidays. For FSU students, winter break is a much-needed chance to relax and recharge. Before you take off, running through a quick winter break apartment checklist for your new place at NxNW can save you from major headaches later.
A little prep before your departure helps prevent common issues like pests, surprise utility bills, and maintenance emergencies. This guide covers everything you need to secure before you head out. Looking for fun before you go? Check out these holiday events in Tallahassee.
Key Takeaways
- Clean & Unplug: Do a deep clean of your apartment, focusing on the kitchen, and unplug non-essential electronics to save power and reduce risks.
- Prevent Pests & Pipes: Get rid of all perishable food and trash to avoid an infestation. Set your thermostat to around 60-65°F to keep pipes from freezing.
- Secure Your Belongings: Lock all windows and doors, bring valuables home with you, and make sure any incoming packages are accounted for before you leave.
- Communicate: Let your roommates know your travel plans and double-check that the leasing office has your emergency contact info.
The Pre-Departure Tidy: Kitchen and Bathroom Checklist
Getting your kitchen and bathroom in order is the first step to ensuring you don’t come back to strange smells or unwanted pests.
Kitchen Deep Clean
- Toss any perishable food from the fridge and pantry that will expire while you’re away.
- Empty all trash and recycling bins and take them to the designated community dumpsters to prevent pests and odors.
- Wipe down all countertops to get rid of crumbs or spills. Make sure all dirty dishes, pots, and utensils are washed and put away.
- Run the garbage disposal with a few ice cubes and citrus peels to clear it out and freshen it up.
Bathroom Shutdown
- Put away any damp towels or rugs to stop mildew from growing. This is a perfect time to do one final load of laundry.
- Tidy up your personal items and give the sink and counter a quick wipe-down.
- Check for any small leaks from the toilet or sink. If you notice a drip, let maintenance know.
- For more tips, check out this guide to a deep clean before break.
What to Pack vs. What to Leave
Deciding what to take and what to leave can be tough. Here’s a quick comparison to help you make a choice.
| Item Category | What to Pack for Break | What to Leave in Your Apartment |
|---|---|---|
| Electronics | Laptop, phone, chargers, headphones, portable gaming devices | TV, large game consoles, desktop computer, printer |
| Clothing & Linens | Weather-appropriate clothing, special occasion outfits, toiletries | Most of your wardrobe, bedding, towels, and shower curtain |
| Personal Items | Driver’s license/ID, passport, medications, house keys | Textbooks, school supplies, decor, and most kitchen cookware |
| Valuables | Expensive jewelry, sentimental items, portable speakers | Furniture (bed frame, desk), large rug, most accessory items |
| Food & Kitchen | Reusable water bottle, favorite non-perishable snacks | Sealed, non-perishable pantry items, spices, and kitchen utensils |
Packing & Securing Your Personal Space
Living with roommates means you have to lock down your personal space. A little smart packing and securing can give you peace of mind while you’re gone.
Smart Packing for Winter Break
- Figure out what you absolutely need to bring home. Don’t forget essentials like your laptop, phone charger, medications, and ID.
- Use this opportunity to swap out seasonal clothes. Pack your warmer clothes if you’re heading somewhere colder.
- Need some ideas? Here is some winter break packing list inspiration and our own college packing list.
Securing Your Bedroom and Valuables
- Make sure all your bedroom windows are closed and locked. For extra privacy, close the blinds.
- Take expensive or sentimental belongings with you. This includes things like jewelry, portable gaming devices, or your passport.
- Tidy your desk and common areas. A clean space makes it less obvious if anything is missing and helps deter theft by keeping valuables out of sight.
Utilities, Appliances, and Maintenance: The Final Walkthrough
This final check is your best defense against high energy bills and maintenance emergencies. A quick walkthrough can save you a lot of trouble.
Energy and Appliance Management
- Unplug all non-essential electronics and gadgets. This means your TV, game consoles, chargers, toaster, and coffee maker.
- Pro Tip: Do not unplug your refrigerator or other major appliances that need to run 24/7.
- Do a final sweep to turn off all lighting in your bedroom, bathroom, and common living areas.
- You can find more of FSU’s energy-saving reminders on their blog.
Preventing Maintenance Issues
- Pro Tip: To prevent pipes from freezing in a rare cold snap, set your thermostat to a steady 60-65°F. Never turn it completely off.
- Open the cabinet doors under the sinks in the kitchen and bathroom. This lets warm air circulate around the plumbing.
- Before you walk out the door for the last time, do one final walkthrough of the entire apartment to make sure you’ve covered all your bases.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long is winter break at FSU?
FSU’s winter break typically starts after final exams conclude in mid-December and runs until the first week of January. Always check the official FSU academic calendar for the exact dates for the current year.
Should I unplug all my electronics before I leave?
You should unplug all non-essential electronics like TVs, chargers, game consoles, and small kitchen appliances. This saves energy and prevents potential power surge damage. Leave major appliances like your refrigerator plugged in.
Do I need to shut my utilities off before I go home for break?
No, you should not shut off your main utilities like electricity or water. However, you should adjust your thermostat to an energy-saving temperature (around 60-65°F) and ensure all lights and faucets are off.
Should I do a deep clean of the apartment before I go home?
Yes, doing a thorough clean before leaving for winter break is highly recommended. It prevents pests, eliminates odors, and ensures you return to a tidy and welcoming space.
Have a Great Break, Seminoles!
Following this winter break apartment checklist ensures your return to Tallahassee is smooth and stress-free. Have a safe and happy holiday break! If any emergencies come up, remember that the NxNW leasing office and maintenance team are here to help. You can reach the office at (850) 613-9856.
For more helpful info, check out these freshman survival tips.
