Prep Yourself for Dorm Life

I’ve been to two graduation parties this month, and that can only mean one thing – college classes will be starting very soon. Back when I was moving into the dorms I wish there had been a more comprehensive list of things I would actually need and use, so I’ve rounded up some items that I’d grab the second time around. (You know, as a creepy 38-year-old dorm dweller.)

 

A small console to hold the television (if you’re bringing one) on top and kitchen essentials and food below (if you don’t have a kitchen).

Some favorite art so that your walls don’t feel bare, especially if they’re of the cinderblock variety.

Over-the-door hooks for bathroom towels, robes, purses, etc.

An external backup drive for music and important things you have on your computer. Trust me!

A 20-piece set of silverware for when you’re not eating in the cafeteria.

A floor length mirror, I like this over-the-door one with extra storage inside for jewelry.

Versatile clips that work for chip bags and hanging art alike.

A cozy throw for late nights or homesick days.

A mattress pad of some sort because extra long dorm room beds are the opposite of comfortable.

 

Under the sink storage if you have your own en suite bathroom because space will be at a premium.

An adjustable closet extender to add an extra row of hanging space for your clothes.

Some sort of shelving (if your room doesn’t have any provided) to hold books, etc.

Storage like these wire baskets for everything from snacks to accessories.

Headphones to block out your roommate, for the walk to class, and a million other things.

Two sets of soft bedsheets, I definitely recommend a spare just in case.

A few throw pillows to lean up against on your bed.

A squishy bathmat to soak up all that extra water on the floor post shower.

Command Strips for everything because most dorms hate nails with a passion.

 

A bath caddy to schlep to the shower if you’re living that community bathroom life.

Kitchen towels for when your four dishes get dirty.

If you have the room for a chair I really like this folding butterfly one that can be stashed when not in use.

I recommend four bath towels and two face towels – one set in the laundry and one in rotation.

Small locking storage containers for any leftovers you might have.

Though it’s easier to buy paper plates, I’d opt for plastic ones that can be recycled at the end of the year.

Same goes for bowls.

Pick up a few ceramic mugs for early mornings and late nights that demand caffeine.

Plastic cups, too!

 

A tray isn’t a necessity, but it is nice to have one around to control dresser clutter.

A can opener.

If you have linoleum or cement floors in your room you’re going to want a rug next to your bed.

Most dorm room come with a desk, but if not I really love this simple one that can go along with you to your sophomore year.

Pot holders are now part of your life.

As is a drying mat or rack for dishes.

Pick up a small trashcan or two for your desk and kitchen area.

Bedside organizers are so smart – grab one to hold your phone while it’s charging at night along with your favorite magazines or books.

Again, rugs are your friends!

 

A desk lamp for study sessions or late night reading is a must.

Or go with something more standard like a small table lamp that can be reused after you move out.

A coffee maker, a French press, some sort of coffee producing device is non-negotiable.

A laundry basket with handles that will hold at least two weeks of clothes and is easy to carry.

A few decorative glasses or containers to hold toothbrushes, hair elastics, etc.

More hooks! Think vertically when it comes to storage as well as horizontally.

Pouches are great for organizing within your school bag and purse.

I suggest a mid-weight comforter or duvet that will be cool enough when you move in this summer, but that can be layered with a blanket or two come winter for added warmth.

Like this blanket.

 

While candles are usually considered taboo for their open flame, grab some incense and room spray for when your space gets a little funky and stagnant.

Well-designed notebooks make classes that much more interesting.

A trusty wireless speaker.

A few water bottles to fill and carry to class, I like this collapsable one that can be sized to different quantities or squished entirely.

There’s nothing wrong with having a tiny nightlight to help find your way at night, especially if it also functions as a charger!

Reusable snack bags to stash in your school bag.

A shower organizer, because two to four roommates have more bath products that you imagine.

This little hanging pocket organizer would be great hung next to the door to hold your keys.

A fun mirror with storage underneath for makeup or jewelry.

 

Take along a few picture frames for pics of you and your high school BFFs.

Storage boxes for desk supplies, jewelry, skincare products, etc.

A water filtration pitcher and refill filters is a must.

A shower curtain you all agree on and a few liners as well.

Utility carts are super versatile – use it to hold food, kitchen necessities, bathroom things and more.

You may not need them that often, but a small ironing board and iron should be going with you.

Slim hangers so you can pack all the more into that little closet.

A power strip for all of your technology.

A small lidded garbage can for the bathroom, next to the toilet.

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