mallardproperties

First Apartment Essentials: What UO Students Actually Need for Move-In Day

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 07:00:00 GMT

Your first off-campus apartment near the University of Oregon is exciting… until you realize you own approximately zero useful household items.

No worries. Every student goes through it.

This guide covers the first apartment essentials UO students actually use after move-in day — not random stuff marketed to college students that doesn’t actually serve you.

Looking for Off-Campus Housing Near UO?

Browse Mallard Properties’ townhouse-style rentals near the University of Oregon. All of our units are just blocks to the U of O campus, and come with private, quiet entrances (no noisy hallways!). Plus, we make renting easy with friendly, responsive management and clean, well-maintained units.

Check out our available rentals page for current pricing, availability, photos, and video walkthrough tours. There are NO application fees when applying.

Move-In Day Essentials

Before unpacking everything else, make sure you have:

Water bottles
Snacks
Phone charger
Toilet paper
Trash bags
Cleaning wipes
Paper towels
Basic toolkit
Shower curtain
Bedding

You’ll want these accessible immediately.

Not buried inside mystery Box #17.

Cleaning Supplies You’ll Actually Use

Keeping your apartment clean is WAY easier than trying to deep-clean months later before move-out.

Helpful basics:

Dish soap
Multi-surface cleaner
Vacuum or broom
Mop
Toilet cleaner
Sponges
Laundry detergent
Kitchen trash bags

PRO TIP: Store wipes and cleaning spray somewhere visible so quick cleanups feel easier.

Bathroom Must-Haves

Most students forget at least one of these:

Toilet plunger
Shower liner
Bath mat
Hand soap
Extra towels
Hair trap for shower drain

Hair traps are ESPECIALLY worth it because they help prevent expensive drain clogs.

Kitchen Basics

You do not need a fully stocked Pinterest-worthy kitchen. We know those gorgeous 7-piece eco-friendly non-stick cookware sets are totally swoon, but in truth, you don’t need them.

Start simple:

1 Frying pan
1 Pot
Plates & bowls
Cups
Silverware set
Can opener
Oven mitts
Food storage containers

That’s enough to survive college cooking.

Safety & Maintenance Essentials

A few small items can save you major stress later:

Flashlight (your phone works, but proper flashlight is much brighter)
Extra batteries
Basic screwdriver set
Command hooks
9-volt batteries for smoke detectors

You should also know:

Where your breaker panel is
How to reset a GFI outlet
How to submit maintenance requests

Check out our Maintenance Help Video page for helpful DIY fixes to common maintenance issues.

Make Cleaning Easier on Future-You

One of the biggest mistakes first-time renters make?

Letting small messes build up over time.

Simple habits make a huge difference:

Wipe counters regularly
Vacuum weekly
Run bathroom fans during showers
Take trash out often

Your future self (and your security deposit) will appreciate it.

And keep in mind: Your first apartment doesn’t need to be perfect. You’ll figure things out as you go.

Start with the essentials, stay organized, and focus on creating a space that feels comfortable, functional, and like home.

Looking for Off-Campus Housing Near UO?

At Mallard Properties, our off-campus, townhouse-style rentals near the University of Oregon are designed for students looking for more privacy, better value, and the convenience of walking just blocks to campus.

Check out our available rentals page for up-to-date availability, pricing, photos, and video walkthrough tours.

You can also check out our Rental Process Overview and FAQs pages for more detailed answers to questions about leasing, policies, and more.

How to Keep Your Apartment Carpet Clean (Without Losing Your Deposit)

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 07:00:00 GMT

UO college apartments go through a lot. Muddy shoes. Coffee spills. Late-night snacks. Random stains that somehow appear out of nowhere.

Keeping your apartment carpet clean doesn’t have to be difficult — and a few simple habits can help protect your security deposit.

Here’s how UO students can keep carpets clean, and avoid carpet cleaning charges. Small habits now can save you stress (and money) later. Especially during move-out season.

Townhouse-Style Living Near the University of Oregon

Explore Mallard Properties’ rentals with private entrances and residential-style living just blocks from the U of O campus. Whether you’re a student or young working professional, our homes provide a quiet, “home” like experience.

Check out our available rentals page for up-to-date pricing, availability, photos, and video walkthrough tours today. There are NO application fees to apply, and our friendly local management makes the entire leasing process stress-free and easy!

Vacuum More Often Than You Think

One of the easiest ways to protect carpet is regular vacuuming.

Dust, dirt, and grit get trapped deep in carpet fibers and slowly wear them down over time.

Try to vacuum:

At least once per week
More often in high-traffic areas
Around entryways and living rooms especially

If you have roommates, creating a simple cleaning rotation helps a lot.

Don’t Rush While Vacuuming

Quickly running a vacuum over the surface doesn’t fully remove dirt.

For best results:

Move slowly
Vacuum each section multiple times
Use overlapping passes
Use attachments near walls and corners

This helps lift dirt hiding deeper in the carpet.

The #1 Rule for Spills: Act Fast

When something spills:

Clean it immediately
Blot instead of rubbing
Use a white towel if possible

Rubbing spreads stains and can damage carpet fibers.

The faster you clean it, the better chance you have of fully removing it.

Easy DIY Carpet Spot Cleaner

For many common stains, try:

1 tsp mild detergent
1 tsp white vinegar
1 quart warm water

Steps:

Blot excess liquid first
Apply cleaning solution
Blot with clean towel
Repeat if needed
Let dry completely
Vacuum afterward

This often works for:

Coffee
Food spills
Dirt
Mud

How to Handle Common Carpet Stains

Mud

Let mud dry first before cleaning. Trying to wipe wet mud usually spreads it further.

Red Wine

Cover with salt after blotting to help absorb moisture before cleaning.

Wax or Gum

Use an ice cube to harden the material before gently lifting it from carpet fibers.

Avoid Overusing Carpet Cleaning Products

A lot of commercial carpet cleaners leave behind residue that attracts even more dirt later.

If using store-bought cleaners:

Test a small hidden area first
Use lightly
Avoid soaking the carpet

Sometimes simple solutions work best.

Don’t Forget About Odors

A simple trick: Vacuum a small amount of baking soda to help freshen carpets and reduce stale smells.

Especially helpful in shared student housing.

Professional Carpet Cleaning Matters

Most rentals require professional carpet cleaning before move-out (including Mallard Properties).

Rental carpet cleaning machines usually do not count as professional cleaning, and additional carpet cleaning charges for spots, animal stains, and urine enzymes may be added.

Keeping carpets clean throughout the year makes move-out cleaning much easier — and may help reduce deductions from your deposit.

Walk to Campus. Come Home to Quiet.

At Mallard Properties, our off-campus townhouse-style rentals are just blocks to the University of Oregon campus. Whether you’re a student or young working professional, our homes are designed for more privacy, fewer shared spaces, and a calmer place to live.

Check out our available rentals for pricing, availability, and video walkthrough tours today!

You can also check out our Rental Process Overview and FAQs pages for more detailed answers to questions about leasing, maintenance, policies, and more.

How to Avoid Rental Scams When Searching for Off-Campus Housing Near UO

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 22:47:18 GMT

Mallard Properties is proud to be trusted by UO students

Trying to find off-campus housing near the University of Oregon can get stressful fast — especially if you’re moving to Eugene from out of state.

Between Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, random group posts, and fake listings, it’s not always easy to tell what’s legit and what’s a scam.

Recently, a student posted in the University of Oregon Student Housing & Apartments Facebook group asking how to avoid rental scams while searching for housing remotely.

A few students immediately recommended reaching out to Mallard Properties because of their positive experiences renting with us.

We’re incredibly grateful for that trust — and it inspired us to put together this guide to help students avoid some of the most common rental scams happening right now.

Common Rental Scam Red Flags

The rent looks way too cheap

If a listing seems dramatically cheaper than similar rentals near UO, there’s usually a reason. Scam listings often use unrealistically low pricing to attract fast responses.

You’re asked to send money immediately

Be cautious if someone asks you to:

Wire money
Send deposits through payment apps
Pay before touring or verifying the property

A legitimate property manager should be able to provide documentation, answer questions clearly, and explain the rental process.

The listing feels vague or copied

Watch out for listings with:

Very few photos
Generic descriptions
No floor plans or video tours
No business website or verified contact information

They pressure you to act fast

Scammers often create fake urgency:

“Someone else is about to take it”
“I’m out of town, but mail the deposit”
“You need to pay today”

Competitive rentals near the University of Oregon do move quickly — but legitimate companies should still communicate professionally and transparently.

How to Protect Yourself When Searching for Housing

Research the company online

Before applying, search for:

Google reviews
Social media presence
A professional website
Verified contact information
Real property photos and tours

Ask for a video walkthrough

If you’re moving to Eugene from another state, video tours can help you feel more confident about the property before applying.

At Mallard Properties, our available listings include:

Listing photos
Video walkthrough tours
Floor plans
Current pricing
Availability dates
Detailed amenities

Read everything carefully

Before sending deposits or signing documents:

Review lease terms
Verify pricing
Ask questions
Confirm who manages the property

If something feels unclear or rushed, pause and double check before moving forward.

Why Local Management Matters

One of the best ways to avoid rental scams is to work with an established local property management company.

At Mallard Properties, we’re Eugene locals and University of Oregon alumni ourselves . We live and work here, and we understand what students are looking for when searching for off-campus housing near UO.

We offer:

Transparent pricing
NO application fees
Clear, prompt communication
Friendly, caring management
An online tenant portal to request maintenance and make rent payments
Clean, well-maintained units
Spacious town-house style units
A stress-free experience, from move-in to move-out

Most of our residents are UO undergrad and graduate students, Lane Community College students, and young professionals looking for a quieter, more residential living experience near campus.

Tips for Students Moving to Eugene From Out of State

If you’re renting remotely, here are a few ways to make the process smoother:

Start your housing search early
Keep screenshots and written records
Ask for video tours
Avoid sending money without documentation
Read leases carefully
Stick with verified local companies when possible

And most importantly: trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is.

Looking for Off-Campus Housing Near UO?

Browse Mallard Properties' available rentals near the University of Oregon. We offer townhouse-style homes with private entrances, no noisy hallways, and residential-feel close to campus.

All of our rentals are just blocks to campus (some just 1 block away!) and are truly walkable if you don't have a car. Plus, we offer NO application fees and will pro-rate your rent for move-in.

You can also check out our Rental Process Overview and FAQs pages for detailed information on leasing, deposits, maintenance, amenities, and more.

Questions? Feel to free to give us a call anytime: (541) 465-3825

Do UO College Students Need Renters Insurance? Here’s Why It’s Worth It.

Fri, 01 May 2026 07:00:00 GMT

Moving into off-campus housing near the University of Oregon is exciting — until you realize your landlord’s insurance does not cover your personal belongings.

A lot of students assume renters insurance is optional or unnecessary… until something gets stolen, damaged, or flooded.

Renters insurance is usually affordable and can help protect your stuff, your finances, and your peace of mind while living off campus in Eugene.

Keep reading to learn about the benefits, cost, and real-life use-cases of renters insurance.

Looking for Off-Campus Housing Near UO?

At Mallard Properties, we offer townhouse-style rentals just blocks from the University of Oregon. Whether you’re a freshman, grad student, or young working professional, our rentals offer quiet, private entrances— so you can avoid the noisy dormstyle apartment towers with long hallways and elevators.

Check out our current available rentals below for pictures, video walkthrough tours, pricing, amenities, and more. There are NO application fees to apply!

What Does Renters Insurance Actually Cover?

Renters insurance helps cover the cost of replacing your personal belongings if something unexpected happens, including:

Theft
Fire or smoke damage
Water damage
Certain natural disasters
Vandalism

That means things like your:

Laptop
Phone
TV
Furniture
Clothes
Bike
Gaming setup

…may be covered depending on your policy.

Real-Life College Student Examples

Your Apartment Gets Broken Into

If someone steals your laptop, backpack, or electronics, renters insurance may help pay to replace them.

Without renters insurance? You’re responsible for the full cost.

There’s a Kitchen Fire in the Building

Even if the fire wasn’t your fault, smoke and water damage can ruin furniture, clothes, and electronics.

Some renters insurance policies may also help pay for:

Temporary housing
Hotel stays
Food expenses while repairs are happening

Your Stuff Gets Stolen From Your Car

Some policies may also cover items stolen from your vehicle, including:

Luggage
Backpacks
Electronics

Always check your specific policy details.

How Much Does Renters Insurance Cost?

Most student renters insurance policies are surprisingly affordable.

Pricing depends on:

Coverage amount
Deductible
Location
Insurance provider

We recommend contacting your auto insurance provider to see if they can offer you a multi-line discount.

Is Renters Insurance Required?

At Mallard Properties, renters insurance is required (as of 2025) but we strongly recommend it for anyone living off campus near the University of Oregon.

Unexpected things happen, especially in shared housing environments.

Renters insurance helps protect both your belongings and your financial future.

Tips for Choosing a Policy

When comparing policies:

Look for replacement cost coverage
Check deductible amounts
Ask whether roommates need separate policies
Make sure electronics and bikes are covered

Many insurance companies also offer:

Online quotes
Student discounts
Bundled pricing with auto insurance

Living off-campus gives you more freedom and independence — but also more responsibility.

Renters insurance is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself while living in UO off-campus student housing.

A small monthly payment now could save you thou sands later.

UO Off-Campus Housing That Actually Feels Like Home

From duplexes and triplexes to single-family home rentals, Mallard Properties offers UO off-campus housing designed for more privacy, less noise, and an easier leasing experience.

Browse current pricing, photos, floor plans, and video tours online today.

You can also check out our Rental Process Overview and FAQs pages for more detailed answers to questions about leasing, policies, and more.

How to Keep Springtime Ants Out of Your Apartment in Eugene, Oregon

Sat, 21 Mar 2026 07:00:00 GMT

Spring is a beautiful time in Eugene, Oregon. But every year, students start noticing the same thing:

... the ants have arrived!

If you live in off-campus housing near the University of Oregon, warmer weather can quickly bring unwanted kitchen visitors — especially in shared housing.

Keep reading to learn how a few simple habits can help prevent ants before they become a bigger problem.

And if you already have ants, don't panic. We'll help you get them out of your rental!

Eugene Locals. UO Alumni. Student Housing Made Simple.

At Mallard Properties, we’ve been helping UO students and young working professionals find off-campus housing near the University of Oregon campus since 1993. We’re proud to offer quiet, townhouse-style units, transparent pricing, and responsive local management.

Check out our available rentals page for current pricing, availability, photos, video walkthrough tours, and more. There are NO application fees, and our friendly office staff makes the entire leasing process smooth and easy.

Why Ants Show Up in Apartments

Ants are usually looking for:

Food
Water
Crumbs
Sticky surfaces
Trash

Even small messes can attract them.

And in busy college rentals, it’s easy for dishes, trash, or food containers to pile up during midterms or finals week.

The Best Way to Prevent Ants

Keep Dirty Dishes From Sitting Out

One of the fastest ways to attract ants: a sink full of dishes.

Try to:

Rinse dishes quickly
Load dishwasher regularly
Avoid leaving food overnight

Take Out Trash Frequently

Overflowing garbage cans attract pests fast.

Especially:

Food waste
Soda cans
Delivery containers

Taking trash out regularly makes a huge difference.

Wipe Down Counters & Floors

Crumbs and sticky spills are basically ant invitations.

Focus on:

Kitchen counters
Dining tables
Floors
Around trash cans

Why Dishwashers Actually Help

Running your dishwasher regularly:

Removes food smells
Prevents food buildup
Keeps dirty dishes out of the sink

Plus, your dishes usually come out cleaner when the dishwasher isn’t overloaded.

Already Have Ants?

Don’t panic.

One product many people use successfully is liquid ant bait.

It attracts ants, which then carry the bait back to the colony.

NOTE: You may temporarily see MORE ants at first before they disappear. That’s normal. Just wait and let it do its thing.

When It May Be Time for Pest Control

If ants continue despite cleaning and prevention efforts, professional treatment may be needed.

Keep in mind:

Pest treatments often require major cleaning beforehand
Residents may be financially responsible if poor housekeeping caused the issue
Always check with management before hiring vendors or pest control companies

Apartment Cleaning Habits That Help Most

Ant problems are common in Eugene apartments — especially as the temperature warms up.

But small habits can make more of a difference than expensive sprays.

Clean counters regularly
Don’t leave food out overnight
Empty trash often
Sweep floors weekly
Clean up spills quickly

Staying proactive can usually prevent small issues from becoming major infestations.

UO Off-Campus Housing Designed for Real Student Life

Whether you’re an undergraduate, grad student, intern, or young professional, Mallard Properties offers truly walkable rentals just blocks from the UO campus. Our townhouse-style units offer privacy, quiet, and the comfort of a residential home feel.

Check out our available rentals for up-to-date availability, pricing, photos, and video walkthrough tours.

You can also check out our Rental Process Overview and FAQs pages for more detailed answers to questions about leasing, maintenance, and more.

How to Prevent Mold in Your Apartment During the Oregon Rainy Season

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 07:00:00 GMT

Living in Oregon means getting used to rain.

Like... a lot of rain.

And during colder, wetter months in Eugene, moisture buildup inside apartments can quickly lead to mold and mildew if you’re not careful.

Most lifestyle mold issues are preventable with a few simple habits.

If you’re living in off-campus housing near the University of Oregon, here’s how to help keep your apartment dry, clean, and comfortable year-round.

And if you're having issues, Mallard Properties is here to help you mitigate.

Check out our Maintenance Help Videos page for common DIY fixes to many student housing issues, including mildew prevention.

Moving to Eugene for School or Work?

At Mallard Properties, we make finding off-campus housing near the University of Oregon easier with transparent pricing, online applications, and local management you can actually reach.

All of our rentals are actually walkable to the U of O campus (some just 1 block away!) and our townhouse-style units are designed for quiet, residential living.

Check out our available rentals page for current availability, pricing, amenities, photos, and video walkthrough tours.

Why Mold Happens in Apartments

Mold and mildew thrive in:

Moisture
Humid air
Poor airflow
Damp surfaces

Common areas include:

Bathrooms
Windowsills
Closets
Laundry areas
Kitchens

Living in Eugene means moisture is part of life — especially during the rainy season.

So, let's take a look at how to mitigate it.

Use Bathroom & Kitchen Fans

This is one of the easiest ways to reduce moisture.

Always run fans:

During showers
While cooking
During laundry when possible

Fans help remove humid air before condensation builds up.

Keep Air Circulating

Good airflow helps prevent moisture from getting trapped.

Helpful tips:

Leave interior doors open when possible
Avoid pushing furniture directly against walls
Leave small gaps for airflow around belongings

Even a few inches can help.

Keep Heat Set to At Least 60°F

Cold apartments tend to hold moisture longer.

During colder months:

Keep heat set to at least 60°
Avoid shutting heat completely off during breaks

This helps dry moisture in the air and reduces condensation.

Watch Windows & Windowsills

Condensation on windows is common in UO off-campus rentals in Eugene.

If you notice moisture:

Wipe windows and sills dry regularly
Raise blinds slightly for airflow
Avoid blocking vents or heaters

Small steps help prevent mildew buildup over time.

Check Your Dryer Vent

If your dryer vent disconnects, warm moisture may stay trapped inside the apartment.

Periodically make sure:

Vent hose is connected properly
Air is venting outside correctly

This helps reduce excess indoor humidity.

What If You Already See Mold?

Small areas of lifestyle mildew can often be cleaned with approved mold-cleaning products.

But if you notice:

Water leaks
Persistent moisture
Bubbling paint
Major mold growth

…report it immediately.

Leaks and moisture problems can lead to serious damage if ignored.

Check Out Mallard Properties Maintenance Videos

Not sure how to handle common apartment maintenance issues?

Our Maintenance Help Videos page includes walkthroughs for:

Bathroom mildew prevention
Garbage disposal fixes
Breaker resets
GFI outlets
Washer & dryer tips
And more…

These videos may help you avoid unnecessary service call fees.

Looking for Quieter Off-Campus Housing Near UO?

Skip the crowded apartment towers and explore townhouse-style rentals just blocks from the University of Oregon. Our properties offer private entrances, more personal space, and a quieter residential feel — all with transparent pricing and no application fees.

Plus, we keep our homes well maintained, and our maintenance team is quick to respond, so you’ll never have to worry about getting help when needed.

UO Winter Break Housing Tips: How to Protect Your Apartment While Away at College

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 22:19:10 GMT

Headed home for winter break? Before leaving your off-campus rental near the University of Oregon, it’s important to take a few simple steps to help protect your home away from home.

Every year, college students return from break to issues like:

Frozen pipes
Stolen packages
Water leaks
Unlocked doors or windows
Dead batteries in smoke detectors
Maintenance emergencies that could have been prevented

The good news: most of these problems are avoidable with a quick pre-break checklist.

Keep Your Heat On

Even if you’ll be gone for weeks, don’t turn your heat completely off.

Cold temperatures can freeze pipes and lead to serious water damage.

Before leaving:

Set your thermostat to at least 60°F
Open cabinets under sinks so warm air can circulate around pipes

This is especially important during Eugene winter weather and colder overnight temperatures.

Lock Everything Before You Leave

This sounds obvious, but it’s one of the most common issues during school breaks.

Before heading out:

Lock all windows
Lock doors and deadbolts
Close blinds if valuables are visible
Secure bikes and electronics

If possible, leave a light on or use a timer so your home doesn’t appear vacant.

Pause Deliveries & Mail

Overflowing mail and packages make it obvious nobody is home.

Before leaving town:

Pause USPS mail delivery
Stop newspaper subscriptions
Hold package deliveries if possible

If you’re ordering gifts online during break, consider shipping them to your family home instead.

Ask Someone to Check In Occasionally

If you have a trusted:

Friend
Roommate
Neighbor

... ask them to occasionally check on your place while you’re away.

Even a quick visit can help catch issues early if something unexpected happens.

Don’t Forget About Rent

Winter break doesn’t pause your lease agreement.

If you’ll be traveling:

Schedule online payments ahead of time
Or submit rent before leaving town

At Mallard Properties, residents can also submit online maintenance requests and access their tenant portal remotely during break periods.

Submit Any Required Vacation Notices

Some property management companies (including Mallard Properties) require notice if all residents will be away at the same time.

Submitting a vacation notice helps management:

Monitor vacant units
Respond faster during emergencies
Protect properties during extended breaks

Check your lease or resident resources before leaving campus.

Looking for Off-Campus Housing Near UO?

At Mallard Properties, we provide off-campus housing just blocks from the University of Oregon. Our townhouse-style properties are designed for students and young professionals looking for a quieter, more residential living experience.

Check out our available rentals to see current pricing, availability, video walkthrough tours, and more.

Moving Into Off-Campus Housing Near UO? Here’s Your Stress-Free Move-In Checklist

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 07:00:00 GMT

Moving into your first off-campus apartment or townhouse near the University of Oregon is exciting… but also kind of chaotic.

Between packing and figuring out utilities, move-in week can feel overwhelming fast.

Whether you’re relocating from another Oregon city or moving to Eugene from out of state, this guide will help make your move smoother, less stressful, and way more organized.

Looking for Off-Campus Housing Near the University of Oregon?

At Mallard Properties, we offer townhouse-style rentals with private entrances and a more quiet, “home” like feel, just blocks from the U of O campus.

We’re Eugene locals and UO alumni who can help you navigate the competitive rental market. Check out our available rentals page below for transparent pricing, video walkthrough tours, and up-to-date availability.

There are NO application fees to apply, and we make the entire leasing process easy with online document sharing and e-signatures.

Before You Move

Book Important Services Early

The closer it gets to September move-in season in Eugene, the busier everything gets.

If needed, schedule moving trucks or movers early.

And most of all, don’t wait to sign a lease agreement. UO off-campus housing rentals fill up FAST, so we recommend securing your home between mid-January and spring, well before the fall move-in season.

Update Your Address & Utilities

Before move-in:

Submit a USPS address change
Set up utilities
Transfer or cancel old services
Schedule internet installation early

Common Eugene utilities include EWEB (for power), NW Natural Gas (for gas), and Xfinity for Internet.

Check out our Resources page for links to more utility providers, including furniture rental companies.

And keep in mind that some of our rentals come with utilities like water, sewer, and garbage included!

Declutter Before Packing

Moving is the perfect excuse to get rid of stuff you don’t actually use.

Donate or sell:

Old clothes
Extra furniture
Random kitchen gadgets
Decor you no longer want

The less you move, the easier move-in day becomes. Plus, decluttering is kind of fun, if you’re into Marie Kondo’s “sparking joy.”

Packing Tips That Actually Help

Pack One Room at a Time

Trying to pack your entire apartment all at once = instant chaos.

Focus on one room at a time to stay organized and avoid burnout.

Label Your Boxes Clearly

Future-you will thank you.

Label boxes with:

Room name
What’s inside
“Fragile” if needed

PRO-TIP: Want to re-use your boxes? Don’t take your sharpie pen to the box itself. Instead, tape a piece of paper to the side and write your description on it. That way you can remove and leave the box clean for the next time you need to move.

Use Towels & Blankets as Padding

Last time we checked, a roll of packing paper was 14 whole dollars at big box stores. Woof!

Save money on packing paper and bubble wrap by using:

Towels
Hoodies
Blankets
Pillows

Perfect for protecting dishes and electronics.

Keep Important Items With You

Pack a separate “first night” bag with:

Chargers
Medications
Toiletries
Water bottles
Snacks
Change of clothes
Important documents

Trust us — you do not want to dig through 12 boxes looking for toothpaste at midnight.

Move-In Day Tips

Make Your Bed First

After carrying boxes all day, the last thing you’ll want to do is assemble bedding.

Set up your bed early so you can crash immediately later.

Bring Basic Cleaning Supplies

Even professionally cleaned apartments benefit from a quick wipe-down.

Helpful items:

Paper towels
Sanitizing wipes
Trash bags
Dish soap
Vacuum or broom

Don’t Forget a Toilet Plunger

Nobody thinks about this until it’s urgently needed.

Buy one before move-in day.

Seriously.

Living With Roommates? Communicate Early

Before moving in together, discuss:

Cleaning expectations
Shared supplies
Guests
Quiet hours
Parking
Utility splitting

Clear expectations now = fewer roommate issues later.

The process may feel stressful at first, but a little planning makes everything easier. And once the boxes are unpacked, you’ll finally get to enjoy having your own space in Eugene.

Renting Near UO Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated

At Mallard Properties, we keep the leasing process simple with online applications, no application fees, transparent pricing, and trusted, local support when you need it.

Whether you’re a UO student or working professional, check out our available rentals page today for up-to-date pricing, availability, photos, and video walkthrough tours, and find your new home-away-from-home today!

You can also check out our Rental Process Overview and FAQs pages for more detailed answers to questions about leasing, maintenance, and more.

Garbage Disposal Not Working? Common Fixes for UO Student Rentals

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 07:00:00 GMT

Garbage disposals are one of those things you don’t think much about… until they stop working.

If your garbage disposal is clogged, humming, draining slowly, or causing your dishwasher to back up, don’t panic.

We’ll show you how to fix it in a few simple steps. We’ll also share some good habits to help prevent drain clogs, dishwasher backups, and expensive maintenance charges

Because nobody wants to deal with sink problems during finals week!

Looking for Quiet, UO Off-Campus Housing?

At Mallard Properties, our townhouse-style rentals near the University of Oregon offer private entrances, residential surroundings, and a quieter alternative to traditional student apartment living.

Plus, our maintenance team is quick to respond to requests, so you never have to worry about getting help when needed.

Check out our available rentals page for up-to-date pricing, availability, photos, and video walkthrough tours today.

Watch Our Video Tutorial on Fixing Garbage Disposals

At Mallard Properties, we’re proud to offer fast response times on maintenance requests that come through our Tenant Portal.

But we also want to help you fix things yourself when possible, saving you time and a potential maintenance charge.

Garbage disposal issues tend to come up frequently, so we’ve put together a DIY video for residents.

Take a look: How to Fix a Garbage Disposal

If the problem still persists, please submit a maintenance request through your Tenant Portal and we’ll respond to you as soon as possible.

What NOT to Put Down a Garbage Disposal

To help you avoid garbage disposal issues, here’s a list of what to avoid putting these down the drain:

Grease or cooking oil
Potato peels
Pasta or rice
Bones or fruit pits
Coffee grounds
Egg shells
Celery or fibrous vegetables
Plastic, metal, or glass

These can clog pipes, dull blades, or jam even the strongest garbage disposals.

Why Your Dishwasher Might Not Drain

Here’s something many renters don’t realize:

If your garbage disposal is clogged, your dishwasher may stop draining properly too.

That’s because both systems are often connected to the same plumbing line.

If you notice:

Standing water in dishwasher
Slow sink drainage
Disposal humming but not spinning

…there may be a clog in the disposal or drain line.

How to Use Your Garbage Disposal Correctly

Always Run Cold Water

Before turning on the disposal:

Start a strong stream of cold water
Keep water running while grinding food
Continue running water for several seconds afterward

Cold water helps oils and grease stay solid long enough to flush through pipes instead of coating them.

Add Food Slowly

Do NOT dump large amounts of food down all at once.

Feed small amounts gradually so the disposal has time to grind properly.

How to Clean a Garbage Disposal Naturally

Want your sink to stop smelling weird?

Try this simple cleaning method:

Add ½ cup baking soda
Pour in 1 cup white vinegar
Let sit for a few minutes
Flush with boiling water
Run cold water and disposal
Add a few citrus peels for freshness

Easy, inexpensive, and way better than chemical-heavy cleaners.

When to Submit a Maintenance Request

If your disposal:

Will not turn on
Continues clogging
Leaks
Smells burned
Causes repeated plumbing backups

…it may be time to contact us for help. Submit a maintenance request through your Tenant Portal . We’re quick to respond!

You can also check out our Maintenance Help Videos page for other tips that may help you avoid other maintenance problems.

Student Housing Near UO Without the Stress

Explore Mallard Properties’ off-campus rentals with NO application fees, easy online rent payments, and fast maintenance request support through our Tenant Portal .

View available properties , pricing, and move-in dates online today.

You can also check out our Rental Process Overview and FAQs pages for more detailed answers to questions about leasing, maintenance, and more.