Moving into student accommodation is exciting, but assembling furniture in a new room can feel like a challenge. Whether you are putting together a desk, wardrobe, bedside table or storage unit, a little preparation can make the whole process much easier.
Before you start assembling
Before opening the box, make sure you have enough space to work safely. Clear the floor and protect the surface from scratches where needed. It is also a good idea to assemble the furniture as close as possible to where it will eventually stand, particularly if you are working in a smaller student room.
Check the instructions carefully and identify all the panels, fittings and fixings before you begin. Keep the packaging nearby until you have finished, as smaller parts can sometimes be hiding inside the box.
Read our blog: The essentials before installing your flat pack furniture.
Get your tools ready
Most flat pack furniture comes with the basic fittings you need, but you may also need a few household tools. A screwdriver, hammer, Allen key and tape measure can be useful, depending on the furniture.
Avoid using the wrong size screwdriver or forcing screws into place. If something does not seem to fit, stop and check the instructions rather than applying extra pressure.
Take your time
Flat pack furniture is usually designed to be assembled in a particular order, so follow each step carefully. It can be tempting to tighten every screw as soon as you put it in, but some furniture needs a little movement while you line up the panels.
Once the main frame is positioned correctly, gradually tighten the fixings. Check that doors, drawers and panels are sitting square before completing the final steps.
Read our blog: Furniture Support: How do I solve alignment issues?
Think about your space
Student rooms can be compact, so make the most of the space available. Consider furniture with built in storage, shelving or drawers to keep study and bedroom essentials organised.
Before positioning larger furniture, measure the available space and check that doors, drawers and windows can still be opened comfortably. Avoid placing furniture directly in front of radiators or other heat sources.
If drawers are sticking or not fitting correctly, read our blog: Furniture Support: Why are the drawers not fitting properly?
Keep furniture secure
Once assembled, check that everything feels stable and secure. Tall furniture such as wardrobes and shelving units may need to be secured to the wall, so always follow the manufacturer's instructions and use suitable fixings for your wall type.
Avoid overloading shelves and drawers, particularly with heavy books or equipment.
Read our blog: why your wardrobe might be leaning.
Make it feel like home
Once everything is assembled, you can add the finishing touches. Soft lighting, bedding, cushions, storage boxes and a few personal items can quickly make a student room feel more comfortable and homely.
For more student setup inspiration, see Uni Tech Essentials: What You Really Need for Student Life.
With a little planning and patience, assembling your student furniture does not have to be stressful. Take your time, follow the instructions and check everything is secure before settling into your new space.