The time has come to start preparing for the annual Move-In Day fiasco. For some, shopping for college is a thrill, for others it’s like a trip down death row. This year is different as stores are taking pity on our wallets and on our consciences as products are cheaper and eco-friendly. Here a few tips to keeping those flies out of the wallet and pleasing Mama Nature.

- Craigslist, Craigslist, Craigslist!  - Although there are the occasional creepers on Craigslist, it’s actually a website chock-full of awesome deals and most offers are open to haggling. I will be moving into an apartment this upcoming semester and was in desperate need of a dresser and found one on Craiglist, a lot like this one. 

- Vamp up the old - To personalize the dresser and go for the Shabby Chic vibe, I bought cabinet knobs on sale ($2.95 a piece) at Anthropologie. 

- Recycle your bedding - Instead of getting an entirely new comforter, check out the quilt covers at Ikea ($19.99 for twin-sized beds) and slip that old comforter right in turning your dingy drab bedding into fabulously fab bedding.

- Soak up the sun and save - If you're paying for your utilities bill, you might want to consider solar powered lighting. This cute jar of light (sold at Urban Outfitters for $45) can be charged on a windowsill during the day and deliver solar-charged light by night.

- Washable rugs - Dorm room floors are typically infested with dirt, grime and dust bunnies so floor rugs are always a must. To keep those feet germ-free, furnish your floor with eco-friendly handwoven rugs (sold at Bed, Bath & Beyond starting at $7.99). Although, the website suggests to clean the rugs professionally, I've thrown them into the washing machine without a problem.

So keep those girls and guys down the hall jealous of your chic, green dorm - you'll have a ton of neighbors knocking at your dorm to hang out in your eco-paradise.