Window blinds and shades will make a big difference in your first off-campus apartment

Moving into your first off-campus apartment is a huge step for any college student, but since finances are usually tight, you're probably looking for a cost-effective way of improving your place. Window blinds and shades will provide privacy, a better night's sleep and help to cut down on utility bills, which will allow you to have more fun next semester.

The bedroom is the best place to start, and getting a good night's rest during finals week is essential. Honeycomb cellular shades with a dual-cell blackout liner will provide a dark environment so you can reach a deeper sleep. These shades will also effectively control air leakage, which will help to nip utility costs in the bud.

If you're just looking for a quick update for the room, while still offering a great deal of privacy, bamboo woven wood shades are the ideal choice. These shades come in a wide range of colors and styles and can be custom-made to fit any window. They will go with just about any decorating scheme, and will add a contemporary twist to your living spaces that won't hurt your wallet.