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Home » 60 Dorm Room Essentials You Need To Have

Dorm · July 29, 2024

60 Dorm Room Essentials You Need To Have

This post shows you 60 dorm room essentials that are serious must-haves for any college student.

60 dorm room essentials every student needs to see

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Setting up your dorm room is an exciting part of starting college, but it can be a bit overwhelming, too. You want your new space to feel cozy, functional, and stylish all at once, but you’re also working with limited space in a dorm room.

You want to make sure you have everything you need, but you also don’t want to waste time and money and space in your dorm with things you won’t use that often.

Here, you will find the ultimate list of dorm room must-haves that any college student could use! Whether you’re a freshman or senior, there is something on this list for you. Or at the very least you can use this list as a dorm packing list to make sure you’re all set!

From bedding and storage solutions to tech gadgets and décor, here’s a list of dorm room must-haves that will help you create a comfortable and efficient living space, making your college experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Dorm Bathroom Essentials

1. No-Slip Towel Wrap for Dorm

Non-slip towel wrap prevents your towel from falling down when you're using a communal space or walking back to your dorm room
buy on amazon

These towel wraps are perfect for dorms when you’re in a communal bathroom or walking back to your dorm room after a shower. They are so handy and way less bulky than a regular towel.

Plus, worrying about your towel falling down is just one less thing for you to think about.

I would either get two of the towel wraps for when one is dirty or in the wash, or bring an extra bath towel or 2.

2. Hair Towel Wrap

Hair wrap turbans are great for wrapping your hair after a shower and keeping wet hair wrapped up and out of the way
buy on amazon

I still use my hair towel turban every time I wash my hair to this day. They’re seriously great at keeping wet hair tied up out of the way.

Plus, they’re so compact and easy to carry, it’s perfect for limited dorm space. I always appreciate that they keep your wet hair securely in place so you can multitask while your hair dries.

3. Shower Flip-Flops or Slides for Dorm

Shower slides are great for walking to and from the dorm bathroom and keep your feet clean in communal showers
buy on amazon

They might not be the most aesthetic sandals you’ve ever seen, but these shower sandals are perfect for dorms because you will likely be walking to and from the bathroom when you shower, and you can wear them while you shower too.

They have holes to let the water drain and they keep your feet clean from communal shower floors so you don’t get the ick.

You could easily use these at the pool or beach too.

4. Shower Caddy for Dorm Bathroom

Mesh shower caddy keeps all of your bathroom toiletries together so you don't have your arms full when youre walking to the showers
buy on amazon

You will save a ton of time and pain in the you-know-what from dropping things with your arms full if you get a shower caddy for your dorm.

They are seriously helpful for bathroom essentials, and you can store your shampoo/conditioner, body wash, body puff, comb, hairbrush, lotion, shavers/shave cream, etc. all in one place.

This one is mesh, so it will let the air through and dry any water that might get in on shower days.

There are also firm plastic shower caddies I haven’t tried but they look great too.

5. Warm Hooded Robe

A warm hooded robe is essential if you like to stay cozy after a shower or live in a cold climate
buy on amazon

A warm robe is a debateable topic, but I think it’s essential for a college student because I got tons of use out of mine nearly every single day and honestly would have died without one.

They’re obviously amazing for walking to and from the shower down the hall, but they’re also great for lounging on chilly evenings, or when I needed to leave my room for a quick chat.

My dorm was REALLY drafty in the colder months, and a robe over my pajamas helped me stay comfy without blasting the heater all evening.

6. Peppermint Toothbrush Protector

Toothbrush protector helps keep your toothbrush clean when you're living in college dorm
buy on amazon

These peppermint toothbrush covers are great when you’re living in a dorm because shared bathrooms can harbor germs and bacteria, and a protector helps keep your toothbrush clean.

Dorm rooms are small, and a protector can help you store your toothbrush in a more organized and compact way, plus keeps it safe from accidental drops or contact with other items in your dorm.

If you frequently visit home or friends, a protector makes it easy to pack your toothbrush without worrying about contamination.

7. First Aid Kit

A first aid kit essential to keep in your dorm room in the event of minor cuts, scrapes, and burns
buy on amazon

This is more of an ‘everywhere’ item than just the bathroom, but I kept my first aid kit with my toiletry items.

It’s easy to forget little things like a first aid kit, but you will probably use it more than you’d expect. I was always the girl with Band-aids and Polysporin for my neighbors!

You need one of these around for treating minor injuries. Having a kit on hand means quick access to bandages, antiseptics, and pain relievers for common problems like cuts, scrapes, and headaches.

8. Hair Tool Organizer

Hair tool organizer keeps your hot tools neatly put away with an area for hair serums and styling products
buy on amazon

Dorm rooms are often tiny, and an organizer keeps your hair tools neatly stored, so you’re not digging through drawers or bags. Plus I liked to save drawer space for other (more important) things in my room.

The holes where you put your hot tools are lined with metal so that you can store everything right after you use them. Keeping hot tools away from flammable items and surfaces is always a good idea, reducing the risk of accidents.

Plus, by keeping your blow dryer, curling iron, and straightener in one place, you avoid a tangled mess and make it easier to find what you need.

I like that it’s so compact you could literally pick it up and bring it to your friend’s dorm if you need to do their hair.

Best Dorm Bed Essentials

1. Best Down Duvet Insert

If you want the perfect plush bed, go for a down duvet insert for all seasons
buy on amazon

If you want to make your dorm bed look like a chic bed in a hotel, go for a down duvet. It makes your bed so plush, you will love it. The price is pretty reasonable considering down duvets are usually a more high-end bedding option.

Get one rated “all-season” so it’s not too hot, unless you live in a really cold climate then get the heavyweight one.

2. Best Duvet Cover

Affordable duvet cover for dorm bed in a variety of colors to match the color scheme of your dorm
buy on amazon

This duvet cover comes with a pillow sham and is under $25! It has great reviews (a lot of them from students too) and comes in a variety of colors.

Maybe I’m just a messy person but I was so glad I got my duvet cover in white – when I spilled some coffee and food it was easy to bleach and I didn’t end up with any stains.

3. Best Comforter for Dorm Bed

Get a cute comforter for your dorm bed in a feminine neutral print
buy on amazon

I absolutely love this comforter set and would have 100% used it when I was in college. The floral print is feminine and pretty, but neutral enough to not clash with the rest of your room.

You can accentuate the pink hues of the flowers with light pink throw pillows, or lean more into the neutral tones with a white or cream throw blanket and pillows.

A delicate floral print is a versatile choice for bedding and does NOT mean you have to put flowers everywhere!

4. Best Sheets for Dorm Bed

Affordable and super comfortable sheets for your dorm bed
buy on amazon

These sheets are two things, 1.) affordable, and 2.) super comfortable! You simply cannot beat this sheet set for the price.

They are basically made for dorm style beds, so XL twin, and reviewers say you can fit them over a foam mattress topper if you’re planning on using one.

If you’re not into white sheets, there is a variety of colors you can choose.

5. Best Complete Dorm Bedding Set Kit

Complete bedding essentials kit for dorm room
buy on amazon

I can’t attest to the quality of this set because I haven’t tried it, but I had to include it because it really is a complete bedding set kit, plus a few extras.

It has everything from a comforter to a laundry bag to a face mask and more. I think if you don’t like shopping around for different items and you just want everything in one go, this looks like a solid set.

6. Waterproof Mattress Protector

A waterproof mattress protector is essential for a dorm room because it keeps a clean barrier between you and the mattress
buy on amazon

If you’re like me and you’re not into the idea of sleeping on a mattress that countless other people have slept on, then you might need a mattress protector for your dorm bed.

It gives a clean barrier between you and the mattress, protecting you from dead skin, dust mites, and all that not-so-fun stuff.

Plus, if you have any spills or stains in your bed, you can just take it off and wash it.

7. Memory Foam Mattress Topper

buy on amazon

A memory foam mattress topper will make your dorm bed extra comfy! If you haven’t tried one before, it adds a new layer of comfort and support especially for the back and hip area when you’re on an older dorm mattress.

You won’t feel any mattress springs in your ribs or hips when you get one of these.

It’s a cost-effective way to enhance the comfort of the often firm and uncomfortable dorm mattresses without buying a new one.

8. Breathable Mattress Topper

Breatheable mattress topper helps make your dorm bed more comfortable and plush
buy on amazon

If you want to add some comfort to your dorm bed but you don’t want to go with memory foam, definitely try out a mattress topper. I actually used one of these in conjunction with the memory foam topper and I loved it! But memory foam isn’t for everyone, so give this one a try.

It adds that extra bit of cushion between you and the mattress without adding much size to the bed, just a softer feel.

If you want to sink into the bed a little, go with the memory foam instead.

9. A Comfy Pillow for Your Dorm Bed

buy on amazon

Definitely bring a good comfy pillow with you to your dorm. Dorm beds can be quite basic and uncomfortable, so a comfy pillow can make a significant difference in making your bed feel more like home.

If you usually sleep with a lot of pillows at home, I would bring two pillows and limit it to that. Dorm beds are pretty small and I found that a lot of my extra pillows didn’t get used and took up space.

10. Cute Throw Blanket

Trendy throw blanket that's stylish and warm so you can use it to wrap up in and as dorm room decor
buy on amazon

It might seem maybe a little frivolous, but I really believe that a cute throw blanket is essential. I used it as a wrap all the time when I was studying! In the winter months it was great to have too.

It’s also handy to have an extra layer for guests during late-night study sessions or movie nights.

Plus the print on this one is super cute! It looks cute draped over a dorm bed or futon.

11. Bedside Caddy or Shelf

Bedside caddy keeps all of your essentials at arm's reach in your dorm bed so you can place your phone, water bottle, melatonin, and more nearby.
buy on amazon

If your dorm bed is high up, you definitely need a caddy or a bedside shelf so you’re not having to climb up and down. Try to check with your dorm or go for a tour and see what kind of bed you’re going to have.

With a high bed, reaching things on a night stand can be inconvenient and unsafe, especially during the night.

A bedside caddy keeps your phone, water bottle, melatonin, books, glasses, and other necessities within arm’s reach.

Bed shelf for dorm beds keeps your essentials close by
buy on amazon

You can also opt for a dorm bed shelf for your essentials. This one has a spot for your beverage cup/water bottle and phone, and two hooks where you can hang items like your dorm keys or headphones.

12. Clip-On Book Light for Bed

Clip on book light lets you read and study in bed
buy on amazon

If you love reading in bed or plan on studying in bed at night, a clip-on book light is super convenient for lighting. You will need either a headboard or a night table near your bed so you have something to clip the light on to.

A book light is extra helpful if you’re sharing your dorm with a roommate, so you don’t have to keep all the lights on to see your book at night.

13. Bed Risers for Low Dorm Bed

Bed risers are handy tools used to elevate your bed, creating extra storage space underneath. They are particularly useful in dorm rooms where space is limited. By raising your bed, you can store bins, luggage, and other items out of sight, keeping your room organized and clutter-free. Additionally, bed risers can make getting in and out of bed easier, especially for taller individuals.
buy on amazon

If your dorm bed is low to the ground, get some bed risers to elevate your bed and create extra storage space underneath. Use underbed storage boxes to store clothes and shoes, or you can store luggage, extra cleaning products, and various other items out of sight.

As a taller gal myself I can attest to the fact that bed risers make getting in and out of bed easier for taller individuals.

Side note: Ideally, try to go for a tour of your dorm before you move to see what kind of bed you have so you can plan what to bring. If you’re unable to do that, email a faculty member with your questions, or search for your school’s message board and ask fellow students.

14. Clip-On Bed Fan

A clip on fan for a dorm bed will keep you cool at the beginning of semester and end of semester when it's hot out
buy on amazon

Dorms don’t have the best air circulation and can get REALLY hot. If you live in a place that gets hot at the beginning of the semester and the end, so in the Summer months, you will need one of these!

15. Under-Bed Storage

Utilize the space underneath your bed with underbed storage bins. They’re flatter and longer so they’ll fit under any furniture that’s lower to the ground – not just beds.

You can store things like seasonal clothes, linens, and cleaning supplies while keeping your space clutter-free.

Neutral underbed storage for dorm room
buy on amazon
Neutral storage for dorm room
buy on amazon

Dorm Kitchen Essentials

1. Keurig for Dorm Room

Keurig is a dorm room essential so you can make your own coffees in your room whenever you want
buy on amazon

If you love a coffee in the morning I would highly highly HIGHLY recommend a Keurig. It’s really handy to be able to brew coffees in your room instead of going to a coffee shop or shared kitchen. It really does save time in the morning!

Also very convenient if you need some caffeine for studying.

If you get a Keurig, you may also need K-cup refills:
– K-cup variety pack
– Starbucks flavored K-cups
– Cinnabon cinnamon roll K-cups
– Chai latte K-cups
– Assorted teas K-cups

2. Kettle for Dorm Room

Kettle glows blue when it's turned on and is affordable and perfect for dorm rooms
buy on amazon

A kettle is a dorm room essential because you can quickly boil water for various needs, and it saves you trips to the communal kitchen.

You can easily make hot beverages like tea and hot chocolate, and you can also use it for foods like instant noodles, oatmeal, or anything that just needs hot water!

It’s nice to have a clean appliance dedicated to your use, which is especially helpful in shared living spaces.

3. Microwave for Dorm Room

Microwave is essential for your dorm room so you can easily heat food up without going to the dining hall
buy on amazon

Some dorms come with a microwave, but if yours doesn’t, I do recommend getting one for your dorm room. It is so handy to be able to heat up foods in your room without having to go to the dining hall each time.

It makes leftovers super easy to reheat, and even little things like warming up a cup of tea that’s gone cold.

Check with your school and see if your dorm comes with a microwave or not.

4. Mini Fridge for Dorm Room

Mini fridge for dorm room you can buy on amazon
buy on amazon

Dorms often come with a mini fridge, so check if yours does before you buy. They can sometimes be old, outdated, and prone to breaking down. Trust me, nothing is worse than spoiled food and the odor that comes with it.

Sharing a fridge with a roommate is definitely do-able, but if you’re planning on making a lot of your own meals, having your own mini fridge might be better so you have enough space for your food and drinks.

If you’re happy with the fridge provided in your dorm, there’s no need to spend extra money, but if you’re after something more reliable or stylish, get a mini fridge that suits your aesthetic.

There’s even cute retro ones that look like the Smeg kettles!

I would also highly recommend a mini-fridge shelf with storage options above or below it too. You can utilize the shelves and drawers for storing additional items like snacks, drinks, paper towels, plates and mugs, or condiments.

Neutral stand for mini fridge in dorm room adds extra storage to your space
buy on amazon
Add extra shelves around your mini fridge for additional storage in your dorm room
buy on amazon
Add storage for your dorm room essentials with a storage cart for your mini fridge
buy on amazon

If you don’t have space for extra shelving, you can also use a mini fridge storage caddy. You simply hang the pockets over your mini fridge and gives you additional storage for little things like condiments, seasonings, and plates etc.

Over the fridge storage organizer for mini fridge in dorm room
buy on amazon

5. Food Storage Containers

Food storage containers are essential for storing food and packing snacks with you for class or to study
buy on amazon

Food storage containers are great both for storing food like leftovers in your mini fridge, and for packing snacks and meals to class and study sessions.

It has 5 pieces so it’s a good amount for storing in a dorm and not overkill.

6. Compact Garbage Can for Dorm Room

buy on amazon

This is something I have personally overlooked and learned the hard way – bring a garbage can with a lid!

You definitely don’t want to do what I did and have to use a plastic bag on a doorknob as a makeshift garbage can until I had a moment to go buy one. Learn from my mistakes!

7. A Couple of Good Mugs

Bring two mugs for your dorm room
buy on amazon

I truly believe that less is more when it comes to dorm essentials – you definitely don’t need a set of 6 mugs. It’s just overkill, and it takes up precious space in your dorm.

I found that 2 was the right amount because I could use one when the other was dirty, if I had a friend over, or microwaving a mug of soup and having the other for my beverages.

60 must-have dorm room essentials you can't live without

8. Dish Set for One Person

Bring dishes and cutlery for one person for your dorm so you're not overwhelmed with a huge set of dishes.
buy on amazon

This set of dishes for one is perfect for a student, and I love the pink stoneware. You want to avoid bringing a huge set of dishes and cutlery with you because you just won’t have space for it all in a dorm room.

Some students like paper plates, and some like real dishware. I liked to have some of each. I would suggest bringing some disposable plates with you too for times when you’re too busy to wash dishes.

9. Cutlery Set for One Person

Cutlery set for one person is perfect for college student
buy on amazon

Don’t forget to bring a small set of cutlery – this set is perfect for students because it’s just a couple of forks, a knife, and spoons, and it has a cute travel pouch.

It’s perfect for those late-night snacks or simple meals when you don’t feel like heading to the dining hall.

This pink cutlery set is a little smaller but it matches the pink stoneware dishes I linked above!

Pink cutlery set for one person
buy on amazon

10. Dish Caddy for Dorm

Dish caddy for bringing dishes to communal kitchen to wash dishes
buy on amazon

You will want to get a dish caddy for when you need to carry your dishes, dish soap, and sponge/dish brush to the communal kitchen for washing.

It’s really a great help for toting dishes and cutlery back and forth from your dorm room to the kitchen. I would definitely recommend it.

11. Travel Mug

Travel mug is essential for students so you can take your warm bevvies with you to go
buy on amazon

I love this slim AeroLight travel mug from Stanley – it holds 16 ounces but it’s slim enough to hold comfortably in your hand, and it fits in standard-sized cup holders.

When I had to be out the door early for work or classes I’d bring a coffee with me in a travel mug and it was a life saver.

12. Stanley Cup

Stanley cup is essential because you can keep your beverages cold and it encourages you to drink more water
buy on amazon

Ok, hear me out: Stanley cups are actually useful for dorm life because A.) they hold more water than a glass so you refill less often, B.) you can bring drinks with you to class/work instead of using vending machines etc, C.) I find that having it around actually encourages me to drink more water throughout the day.

If you don’t like the Stanley or all the hype around them, I can also vouch for the Simple Modern cups. They’re minimalist and modern looking, and they work great. They really do keep your drinks cold (and ice icy!).

Simple Modern cup is great for students because it keeps your drinks cold all day
buy on amazon

13. Water Filter Pitcher for Dorm Room

Water filter pitcher is essential for dorm rooms because it
buy on amazon

Hydration is crucial for health and focus, and I could not have lived without my purified water when I was in college.

Old dorm buildings often have outdated plumbing. These old pipes can sometimes make water taste weird or introduce impurities into the water.

By using a water filter, you can ensure that the water you’re drinking is clean and safe. Filters definitely improve the taste and smell of the water, and make it much more pleasant to drink.

Plus, it saved me money in the long run because I didnt purchase a single bottle of water the entire time I was in college, I swear. I would just refill my water bottle and it was perfect.

14. Reusable Snack Bags

Reusable snack bags are essential for living in a dorm so you can store your snacks and bring them with you to class
buy on amazon

Reusable snack bags are great for throwing in your backpack and bringing to class, or storing smaller leftovers in your mini fridge.

I would bring dry foods in one and more damp foods like baby carrots, sliced cucumber, and fruits in others. If I didn’t eat them all, I would put them in my mini fridge for later and they always held up really well.

If you make sandwiches a lot there are great reusable sandwich bags too.

Dorm Furniture Essentials

1. Small Convertible Sofa Bed

Small folding sofa is great for creating a mini living room in your dorm room, and folds down for an extra place to rest or for movie nights
buy on amazon

To create a sitting area in your dorm, you will need a sofa or couch, but most likely you won’t be able to fit a big sofa in your dorm. This one is on the smaller side and looks perfect for a dorm.

The back part folds down to make a flat surface to rest or nap, or for movie nights.

If you are on the taller side, there are longer convertible sofa beds that could work for you – but be sure to check the measurements where you’d want it in your dorm.

This two-person chair is also a great option if you want something a little smaller:

Double seater comfy chair for dorm room
buy on amazon

2. Storage Ottoman for Dorm

Storage ottoman for dorm room helps store extra items and makes your room look stylish
buy on amazon

When you’re working with a small space, you want to have storage where possible to keep your space organized, and storage ottoman’s do a great job at that.

Plus, they’re cute decor, and it’s extra seating when friends come over – or just a comfy place to kick your feet up.

3. Side Table With Wheels

C-shaped side table with wheels is perfect for a small dorm because it adds extra storage and surface to hold your drinks and food items
buy on amazon

If you have the room, I would definitely suggest a c-shaped side table (on wheels) for the seating area of your dorm room. It tucks in to the side of your futon (or bed depending on the height) and gives you another surface to put drinks or remotes when you’re lounging.

Its design makes it great for the limited space in a dorm. Whether you need a spot for your laptop, a place to eat, or somewhere to put your study notes, this table is so handy.

Plus, it’s on wheels, so you can easily move it around your dorm.

4. Narrow Dresser for Dorm Room

Narrow table for dorm room is perfect for small spaces. It has a built-in phone charger and will fit in small spaces
buy on amazon

This narrow dresser is amazing for a dorm room because it adds storage to a small space. It has built-in USB ports so you can charge your devices.

I would use this as a night stand, narrow side table, storage table, in a closet or a sofa side table.

Closet Essentials for Dorm Room

1. Expandable Shoe Rack

Expandable shoe rack helps keep footwear organized and tidy in your dorm room
buy on amazon

This expandable shoe rack is great for a dorm because you can change its size and it doesn’t require any tools to set up.

I would put it on the floor in my closet to hold shoes and seasonal footwear to keep it all out of the way.

2. Velvet Hangers

White velvet hangers for dorm room
buy on amazon

Did you know that the type of hanger you use makes all the difference? By using thin velvet hangers, you’re saving space in your closet, and the velvet means your clothes won’t slip off the hanger.

A bonus is that when you keep the color and type of hanger consistent, it gives your closet a neater and put-together look. When my closet is visually appealing, I start my day on a slightly more positive note!

These ones are white velvet, but there are several color options available too.

3. Space-Saving Hanger Hooks

Space saving hanger hooks help maximize closet space in dorm room
buy on amazon

These cascading hanger hooks are amazing for saving space!

Every hanger organizer holds 5 garments and you can collapse them vertically. They save a TON of space in a smaller dorm closet.

4. Pants and Leggings Hangers

Neutral colored hangers for pants on Amazon
buy on amazon

These pants hangers are perfect for slacks, jeans, and dress pants. They’re steel so it’s easy to slide the material on and off the hanger.

These come in packs of 2 or 4, and hold 5 pairs of pants per hanger.

They save so much space compared to hanging up each pair of pants individually.

Space saving leggings hanger for dorm room
buy on amazon

If you have a lot of leggings and don’t like how they’re difficult to keep neatly folded in drawers (like I do), these space saving hangers for leggings are a game-changer.

They store up to 20 pairs of leggings per hanger.

5. Hanging Closet Organizer

Hanging closet organizer is great for dorm rooms to maximize your storage
buy on amazon

This hanging closet organizer with removable drawers is great if you’re low on drawer space in your dorm.

I had a hanging closet organizer that wasn’t as good as this one, and I used it to store folded sweaters, pants, and seasonal items.

6. Chic Storage Bins

If your dorm closet has a shelf or interior shelving unit, get the most out of your closet by using storage bins.

Truth be told: storage bins can get messy if they’re not organized. I would suggest using each bin for one similar type of item (sweaters, feminine products, seasonal wear, etc), so everything doesn’t get unorganized and messy.

Bins for dorm room closet organization
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Bins for shelves in closet in dorm room
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Bins for organizing dorm room closet
buy on amazon

Dorm Cleaning and Laundry Essentials

1. 3-In-1 Dirt Devil Vacuum

Dirt devil vacuum goes from regular vacuum to handheld vacuum - perfect for dorms
buy on amazon

This is one of, if not the best, dorm room vacuum out there. It goes from a regular stick vacuum to a small handheld one, which is perfect for crumbs and small clean-ups.

The Dirt Devil is great if you plan on having an area rug in your dorm because you can go from smooth floor to the rug with the push of a button.

The vacuum that’s provided on your floor is likely quite old and they don’t work very well from my experience. (I found they were so old, they flung and scattered more dirt than they picked up)

2. Disinfectant Cleaning Wipes

Disinfectant cleaning wipes are necessary for dorm rooms because it makes surfaces very easy to clean and the packs are easy to store in your dorm room
buy on amazon

Disinfectant wipes are essential for dorm rooms because they kill germs and are great for quick clean-ups of spills and messes, making it easier to keep the dorm clean without much effort.

I would also use them in high-touch areas like doorknobs, desks, and shared bathrooms.

They are very handy for cleaning out your mini fridge too.

Compact wipes like these are great for saving space in your dorm.

3. Mrs. Meyers Cleaning Set

All-natural spray cleaner with microfiber cloth for dorm room
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The Mrs. Meyer’s spray cleaner set is perfect for a dorm room. It has an eco-friendly lemon spray cleaner and a microfibre cloth so you can wipe down surfaces when you need to.

Mrs Meyer’s uses all-natural ingredients so you’re not spraying VOC’s all over your dorm, and it smells GREAT like essential oils.

4. Double Laundry Hamper with Laundry Bags

Double laundry hamper with removeable laundry bags so you can easily bring your laundry to the laundry room on your floor
buy on amazon

A double laundry hamper with removable bags is super handy for dorm life. It lets you separate your lights and darks, making laundry day a breeze.

The removable bags make it easy to carry your clothes to the laundry room without lugging the whole hamper. Plus, it helps keep your dorm room organized and clutter-free.

5. Foldable Drying Laundry Rack

Foldable drying laundry rack is essential for drying delicates in a dorm room
buy on amazon

You might be wondering, why a drying rack? Well, if you have delicate clothes, or expensive leggings like Alo or Lulu that you don’t want to put in the dryer, you can easily pop up the drying rack in your dorm.

It’s perfect for giving your delicates a place to dry instead of leaving them in the communal dryers where they could go missing.

Plus, it folds up neatly when not in use, so it won’t take up much space in your room.

6. Tru Earth Compact Laundry Detergent Strips

Tru Earth dry laundry detergent strips is perfect for living in a dorm because you don't have to store bulky detergent bottles AND they're eco-friendly
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Tru Earth laundry detergent strips are perfect for dorm life, and I use them still to this day in my everyday life. I love that they’re compact and don’t take up space unlike bulky detergent bottles.

Each strip washes a full load of laundry, they smell fresh, and they’re eco-conscious and don’t put chemicals in the water system like regular and pod detergents do.

Plus, they’re pre-measured, so no more mess or guesswork. Just toss a strip in with your laundry, and you’re good to go.

It’s always a good thing to do, to use eco-friendly products, and reduce your environmental footprint when you can.

7. Bathroom Cleaning Supplies

Blueland bathroom cleaner with refills is perfect for dorm room
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If you have your own suite with a bathroom, definitely bring cleaning supplies for that, like a toilet scrubber, toilet cleaner, shower cleaner, and scrub brush.

I highly recommend Blueland cleaners for a variety of reasons. You just buy one bottle and then use the refill tabs, so you’re not buying new bottles of cleaner forever, and the refill tabs are small and easy to store.

Blueland makes everything out of eco-friendly ingredients so you’re not putting chemicals in your space, near your skin, or down the drain into the water system.

If you’re like me and you NEED to deep clean your shower, I also highly recommend an electric shower scrubber brush because it does an amazing job for you. It’s not exactly necessary; you only need to think about bathroom cleaning if you have a private bathroom.

Electric shower scrubber brush for dorm
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Dorm Room Desk Essentials

1. Folding USB Desk Lamp

Folding USB desk lamp for dorm room gives you a place to study and charge your phone at the same time
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Desks are usually provided by your college, and they’re usually on the smaller side, so I would recommend a desk light that doesn’t take up a lot of space so you have more room for your notes and text books.

This lamp folds down and saves space, plus it has USB ports so you can charge your devices while you study.

2. Set of Drawer Organizers

Drawer organizers help keep your dorm desk organized
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Drawer organizers are great for organizing inside your desk with school supplies, and also for bathroom and kitchen drawers.

You can definitely use these long after you move out of your dorm – I think they’re a must for anyone!

3. Weekly Planner

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If you like to visually plan out your week to keep you on track, you will love this large weekly planner.

Digital planners are definitely helpful, but sometimes reading the tasks you wrote can help you remember them more than a phone calendar.

I love the different spaces to write out long-term to-dos and priorities beyond your daily tasks, and the habit tracker at the bottom is perfect for tracking personal daily tasks (i.e: vitamins, workout, etc).

The sheets do not have dates on them, but I like that better! If you decide not to use it for a week, no biggie – you’re not wasting any paper.

Plus, if you have multiple calendars, it can be hard to keep all of your activities straight.

4. Supportive Desk Chair

A supportive desk chair is a serious upgrade for a dorm room - most dorms come with older chairs, and a nice one is a game changer.
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Many dorms come with a desk chair, but they can be outdated and uncomfortable. If you know you’re going to be spending hours working at your desk, you might want to upgrade your chair!

Go for one that’s supportive, adjustable, has wheels so you can move it around easily, and goes with your room decor.

This one is a little over $40 and gets great reviews.

5. Wireless Keyboard and Mouse

Wireless keyboard and mouse setup on a dorm room desk, providing a clutter-free and flexible workspace for a college student.
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A wireless keyboard and mouse are super handy for students in dorms. I use mine still to this day, even when I’m working on laptops. It’s way more comfortable and ergonomic for my hands/wrists.

A wireless setup makes it easier to work comfortably from different spots, whether you’re at your desk, on your bed, or anywhere else.

It’s especially helpful if you like your laptop positioned higher on a laptop stand with your hands lower.

Plus, without the mess of cables, your workspace stays neat and tidy.

If you don’t need a keyboard, you could also use a mouse which to me is much faster than the trackpad on my laptop.

I have this exact Logitech mouse and it’s fantastic:

Sleek wireless mouse on a dorm room desk, offering a convenient and cable-free solution for a college student
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Miscellaneous Dorm Essentials

1. USB Flash Drive for Assignments

Close-up of a USB flash drive, ready for use
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A USB flash drive is super important for keeping important files, essays, assignments, and presentations for easy access. Trust me, you will need one.

You can move files between different computers, which is incredibly useful when you’re working on a project in the library or computer lab.

If you will need to do presentations in class, you can load them on to your flash drive to easily plug into a classroom computer or projector.

It’s also great if you need to share files with classmates if you have group projects.

2. 10-Foot Phone Charging Cable

buy on amazon

A 10-foot phone charging cable is super handy for a student in a dorm room. It gives you the freedom to charge your phone from far away outlets, like when you’re lounging on your bed or working at your desk.

No more being stuck right next to a wall while waiting for your phone to charge!

3. Flat Extension Cord

Flat plug extension cord for dorm room
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One must-have for dorm life is a Flat Plug Power Strip with a 5ft Ultra Thin Flat Extension Cord. My dorm room only had 2 plugs for the entire room, so an extension cord was very necessary!

This handy gadget includes 6 AC outlets and 3 USB ports (including 1 USB-C), offering ample charging options.

I like that it lays flatter and is more compact than a chunky one.

4. Laptop Anti-Theft Lock

Get an anti-theft lock for your laptop, ipad, tablet, or cell phone to keep your valuable items safe
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Dorms are often busy places with many people coming and going, so you’ll want to ensure your valuable items don’t get misplaced or stolen.

An anti-theft lock secures devices to a fixed object, providing peace of mind and ensuring that your expensive tech stays safe.

This is especially useful when leaving devices unattended in shared spaces or during study sessions in common areas.

5. School I.D Holder

School ID holder makes it easier to scan your ID in buildings on campus
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When you’re a student, you often need to carry your student ID for various things like accessing buildings, using campus facilities, checking out library books, and getting student discounts.

An ID holder helps keep your ID easily accessible and secure, preventing it from getting lost or damaged.

Plus, this one zips open and can also hold things like cash, your driver’s license, credit cards, and dorm room key, making it super convenient when you’re on-the-go.

6. Reliable Laptop Backpack

Use a reliable laptop backpack to hold all of your essentials comfortably
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A JanSport laptop backpack is a great choice for college students because it combines durability, style, and functionality (not to mention a great price point). It has padded compartments specifically designed to protect a laptop.

I can attest to the fact that these are durable, they can hold a lot on your busy days, and they have good padding on the straps for your shoulders.

If you don’t want a backpack quite as large, consider the North Face Jester Luxe Everyday Laptop Backpack:

buy on amazon

It’s a little pricier than the JanSport option, but it’s perfect if you want a slimmer backpack that still holds a laptop and has great organization features.

7. Command Hooks

buy on amazon

Since most dorms have strict rules against putting holes in the walls, Command hooks offer a solution for hanging items like posters, string lights, and even small shelves.

They are also great for organizing by hanging coats, bags, bath robes, hats, and accessories, helping to maximize limited dorm space efficiently.

Plus, when it’s time to move out, Command hooks can be easily removed without leaving any residue or damage, so you can avoid any penalties from your dormitory.

This post showed you The Ultimate Dorm Room Checklist – 60 Essential Items!

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Posted By: Justine · In: Dorm

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