Re vacuum bags, I have lots but have found that they work perfectly the first time you use them but almost never when you come to using them again after letting out the air. They just don't reseal properly. Also, if intending that dc reuse at the end of term/year make sure that they are in a property with a vacuum cleaner. Most student flats don't have them (afaik) as this job is done by cleaners. I seem to remember that we had a carpet sweeper in ours (many moons ago).
Ds still not reading incoming email. When lurking I saw that he has been asked to pay his deposit (bleed parents for same) but he is blissfully unaware despite being prompted to check inbox.