College Dorm Room Essentials You Don't Want to Forget

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So, you've been dreaming of heading off to college and creating your own space for a while now, right? Well, the time has finally come to check off that list and add things to the cart. When it comes to college though, back-to-school shopping looks a little different. If you're moving into a dorm for the first time, you’re not just picking up new notebooks and pens, (don’t forget those either) you’re adding bed sheets and a mini fridge to the list, among other things. When it comes to creating the perfect dorm life, you've come to the right place to find all the essentials.

Whether you’ve landed a single room or you’re sharing a space with new people, you’re going to need a few things fit for a dorm. Storage solutions are a must along with bundles for the bathroom and a few items to make the space feel more at home. Why not make college cozy?

If you’re feeling stressed about your packing list, start with just one item and go from there. As a recent college grad, I can still remember all the things I bought and didn’t need, and the items I didn’t buy and had to go searching for later. To make it easier for you, we've curated the perfect dorm checklist. We checked with current college students and scrolled through aaaall the TikTok dorm videos to find the latest must-haves for your space this year.

You've got this!

Folding Storage Ottoman

Multi-purpose, storage, and space saver? Say less. This storage ottoman doubles as a seat, step stool, and secret storage container making it essential for dorm life.

Wooden Desk Hutch

In a small dorm, every bit of space matters. This desk hutch fits right on top of your student's desk so they can store extra books, decor, and more.

Linenspa Memory Foam Mattress Topper

Listen, college is filled with fun moments and late night study sessions. That means your sleep is the utmost importance. Upgrade that dorm mattress with a memory foam mattress topper and thank us later.

Mini Fridge with Freezer

A mini fridge with a freezer is a must! You may think you can avoid frozen meals and ramen noodles, but sometimes that is exactly what you need. And of course space for those fruits, veggies and leftover pizza.

Charging Catchall Lamp

This lamp does it all. It fits perfect on a small desk for studying or getting ready, organizing school supplies, and of course keeping that phone charged.

Insulated Curtains

Not only do curtains add a homey touch to the dorms, they can help cover up a lot! These insulated curtains help reduce light, heat, and noise — perfect for a busy campus! They're also great for covering open shelves, closets and separating spaces.

Essential Oil Diffuser

Many dorm buildings don't allow candles, but having a cozy scent is a must. Grab an essential oil diffuser to keep things smelling fresh and clean even when you may not have cleaned in three weeks.

Holmes WI-FI Digital Tower Fan

This oscillating fan is a game changer for a hot and stuffy dorm. We specifically love this one from Holmes because you can connect it to an app on your phone. Turn it on and change the settings right from your phone whether you're studying at your desk or taking an afternoon nap.

Swiffer PowerMop

Chances are part of the dorm has hardwood floors or probably tile. In college things get messy. And while you think water and paper towels will do, they will only last you so long.

Whitmor Hanging Shoe Shelves

College teaches you a lot, including how to get creative with storage. Sure, you can use this hanging organizer for all your shoes in the closet. You can also use one for clothes, sweatshirts, and pajamas. It's also good for things like towels and toiletries.

40-Piece Tool Kit

Moving out of the house and into a dorm means you're going to have to figure a few things out for yourself. Be prepared with this handy tool kit that comes with it's own storage box and 40 common household tools.

Levoit Air Purifier

Despite all the sweet memories you'll be making in your dorm, sometimes it can get a little stuffy in there. An air purifier will help clear the air of allergies, mold, dust and much more.

Stainless Steel Trash Can

If you think a tiny trash can or leftover Walmart bag will suffice for that dorm room trash, think again. Go ahead and get a sturdy trash can that will last the year and won't have to be taken out every single day. Because let's face it, no college student is taking their trash out every day.

Pura Smart Fragrance Diffuser

If your dorm building smells like someone has been living in it for 30 years, and they probably have, keeping some of your fave scents on hand is the perfect way to upgrade it to a cozy space. The Pura Smart diffusers are controlled through an app so you can be sure it's admitting your fave scent right when you wake in the morning, go to sleep at night, or are coming back from class.

Amazon Basics 3-Tier Rolling Cart

This storage cart will be a life saver to store extra food and snacks, cleaning and laundry supplies, or even books and decor. And the best part? It comes in four different colors to fit your style.

Rubber Sandals

Walking around those old floors calls for some comfy shoes to wear around the building, especially if there are communal bathrooms. This pair has rave reviews on Amazon so you know they're good.

Tri-Fold Lighted Vanity Mirror

A personal mirror is always a good idea to have on hand. But especially when living in a dorm room and sharing a mirror with other people. Buying my own personal mirror was a game changer when I shared a bathroom with three other girls.

Clorox Cleaning Bundle

Meet your new bestie, the Clorox Cleaning Bundle. Having cleaning supplies on hand is a must, but space is limited. So, a good multi-purpose cleaner is going to be your best bet. We love that this bundle comes with Clorox wipes too for those quick to clean messes.

Brita Water Filter Pitcher

If there's enough space in the mini fridge, grab a water filter. Many dorm buildings are pretty old, which means they're filled with history and sweet memories... and also old pipes. Grab the Brita filter and thank us later.

Mesh Shower Caddy

A mesh shower caddy like this one is going to be way easier to manage than a hard plastic one. You can hang this one up and store it easier, plus, it dries quicker if it gets wet.

Compact Stacking Storage Drawers

Whether you use these clear drawers for clothes, accessories, or bathroom items, they're going to come in handy. You can store them separately or stack them on top of each other for extra space.

Touchscreen Air Fryer

If your dorm has the space, an air fryer is going to be a life saver! Upgrade those dorm room meals and leftovers with one of these bad boys on hand. Plus, everything from Drew Barrymore's Beautiful line is, well, beautiful!

Monthly Calendar Dry Erase Whiteboard

College gets busy. Keep up with all your happenings and school assignments with one of these. You can't blame not remembering to open your planner if it's staring at you on the wall.

Emergency First Aid Kit

Let face it, you are going to get sick or need a bandaid more than once while living in a dorm. Having this on hand will keep you from having to make an emergency trip to the pharmacy and won't take up too much space.

2 Pack Power Strip

No need to fight over outlets. This pack of power strips with an extra long cord will keep the peace and allow you and your roommate to charge all of your electronics.

Bedside Caddy

Keep all the essentials in reach with this bedside caddy. It's great for charging your phone at night or keeping a bottle of water close by.

Dorm Room Bed Skirt

Hide all that under-the-bed storage with a bed skirt. This one is make for a Twin XL bed and is extra long to accommodate for risers.

Magic Hanger

Those dorm closets just aren't big enough to hold all the clothes you can't live without. These hangers will help you maximize your closet space.

Brita Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle

You can have ice cold filtered water anytime with this Brita water bottle. If you're trying to save room in your fridge, opt for this water bottle that you can carry to class.

Hand Held Fabric Steamer

Keep your clothes wrinkle free without a bulky iron and ironing board. This steamer is dummy proof and compact, making it perfect for dorm living.

Handheld Vacuum Cleaner

This handheld vacuum will help you keep your dorm clean and cockroach free without taking up too much space. A single charge will last 10 hours and you won't have to worry about cords getting tangled or not reaching far enough.

Adjustable Bed Risers

In a dorm room, storage space is a luxury. With these adjustable risers you can utilize the space under your bed for storage or even create a sitting area.

Keurig K-Mini Plus Coffee Maker

Calling all coffee lovers. This mini Keurig is the perfect size for the dorm and it will come in handy during late night study session and early morning classes.

Classic Bath Towel Bundle

Every college kid needs a good set of matching towels. This set will last you all 4 (or 5) years plus some.

DampRid Moisture Absorber

Don't wait until after your first dorm room mold sighting to buy these. Hang one in your closet to breathe better, keep the mold away, and save your clothes.

Twin XL Comforter

You definitely won't want to forget beddings. This comforter comes in a few colors and you can throw it in the washer and dryer.

3M Command Utility Hooks

Whether you're hanging purses, keys, or decorations these command hooks will come in handy and won't damage your dorm walls.

Rolling Laundry Hamper

This clothes hamper with wheels will make the trek to the laundry room so much easier. It is sturdy, lightweight, and features a folding handle to save space.

Microwave Oven

This cheap microwave will work just fine for popping popcorn and heating up frozen meals in the dorm.

Microfiber Sheet Set

No need to splurge on sheets that you may only use for a year. This sheet set is wrinkle resistant and durable enough to survive the dorm laundry facilities.

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