BY ILANA FRIEDMAN // SEPT. 20, 2012 //

One of the hardest parts of settling back into school is figuring out how to set up your dorm room. Space is limited, but creativity doesn’t have to be.

There are different ways to maximize the space you have in your dorm room. // FOTER.COM //e.

Here are three keys to maximizing your storage space and making your room feel like home.

First of all, 3M products are your best friend. You can buy Command hooks and hanging strips, as well as Scotch mounting putty for very reasonable prices. They can be found at stores like Target, CVS, Walgreens and Walmart, and the campus bookstore also has a small selection. Most of the items retail for less than $10, but prices will vary by location and quantity.

You can use these products to hang towels or to mount bulletin boards, mirrors and posters. They are also the best way to ensure that you won’t be fined at the end of the year for damage to your walls, at least in terms of keeping the paint intact. The rest is up to you.

The small hooks are great for hanging and keeping track of your keys. If you are someone who likes to keep your student ID separate from your keys, you can mount a small envelope or make a small pocket out of paper to place your ID in when it’s not being used. You can also use a combination of mounting putty and a bent paperclip to hang smaller items on your walls.

Also, never underestimate the value of recycling. I’m not just talking about utilizing those pretty blue or green bins that the college gives you. Before you decide to throw something out, see if there is a way to reuse it. For example, cereal boxes can be reused for several different projects, and empty Altoids tins can be used to store smaller school supplies like paperclips and thumbtacks.

Finally, it’s OK to let go. Without adopting this mentality, it’s quite possible that your room can start to look like it belongs on an episode of “Hoarders.” It’s easy to make excuses and stay in denial when holding on to rarely used items, but it’s also easy to cut down on the clutter.

One place to start practicing this way of thinking is with your closet. The best and most effortless way to organize your closet is by using “the hanger trick.” And make sure to take advantage of hanging shoe organizers. They will help to create more floor space and can also be used to store toiletry items and hair products.

By following these easy tips and tricks, you won’t have to lie the next time your parents ask if you are keeping your room clean.