The Boring Box brings students and parents an alternative to having to buy dorm essentials from all over town.

Helene Apostolopoulos, founder of The Boring Box, came up with the idea for the business when her daughter went off to university. Having to run around looking for dorm essentials proved stressful for Apostolopoulos, pushing her to improve the experience for others.

“I just thought – let me see if I can put something together that will help future students and parents like me so that they can enjoy their summer with their friends and family before they make the big transition into post-secondary, and have it be great quality and affordable,” said Apostolopoulos.

The business launched in July 2023 and offers two boxes – the ‘b’ box and the dorm box – to its customers.

The dorm box includes things like flashlight, power cord, and a laundry hamper in addition to the bed and bath essentials offered in the ‘b’ box.

The boxes are collapsible and come with packaging tape such that they may be reused.

“We’re trying to be as environmentally conscientious as possible. Throwing the packaging away is troublesome and unnecessary, so instead you can just use those storage bins for sweater shoes, or however you see fit, and when it’s time for you to move out you just package it all the same way as it came,” Apostolopoulos said.

The Boring Box is planning a giveaway for the students of George Brown College. In collaboration with the Student Association, the business has curated a box specifically for George Brown College students valued at $820.

The giveaway box includes Sony noise canceling headphones, duvet cover and insert, pillow, a cushioned mattress cover, thermal water bottle, and dish set, among other things.

Students will also receive a SA branded swag item with the box.

To win the giveaway, participants must follow @SAGBC and @theboringbox_ on Instagram, like the giveaway post, and comment and tag three friends on the post.

The giveaway contest will run from Sept. 8 to Sept. 15.

The Boring Box also has a general store that sells smaller things like water bottles, first aid kits, plates and cutlery.

Apostolopoulos shared that The Boring Box will be extending to other boxes in the future that cater to other needs of students and parents.

More details about the business can be found on their website.