Essential Dorm Room Items for College Students

"Must-Have College Dorm Essentials for Every Student"

Heading off to college is an exciting time, but it can also be overwhelming, especially when it comes to figuring out what you need for your dorm room. To help you navigate this process, we’ve compiled a list of essential items that every college student should have in their dorm. From practical items like emergency first aid kits and tool kits to fun additions like desk hutch organizers and mini fridges, we’ve got you covered.

1. Emergency First Aid Kit: Let’s 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. 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.

3. 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 its own storage box and 40 common household tools.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. WantuSee 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.

7. 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 sessions and early morning classes.

8. Mainstays Microwave Oven: This cheap microwave will work just fine for popping popcorn and heating up frozen meals in the dorm.

9. 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.

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

11. 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.

12. 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.

13. 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.

14. Beautiful 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!

15. Home Logic 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.

16. 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.

17. Hey Dewy Mini Humidifier: Hundreds of college students sharing a dorm building is fun, but it also means the rooms can get a bit dry and stuffy at times. This portable humidifier is the perfect size for a small dorm and helps soothe dry skin, sinuses, bloody noses, and much more. It’s also a great pick for skincare kings and queens.

18. 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.

19. Sun Zero 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.

20. 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.

These essentials will help make your dorm room feel like home and ensure you have everything you need to succeed in your college journey. Happy dorm room shopping!