Essential College Dorm Deals Hand-Picked by House Beautiful Editors

Essential Dorm Room Items You Need for a Successful College Experience

As summer winds down and the back-to-school season approaches, many students are gearing up for a new chapter in their lives: college. Whether you’re a freshman stepping into your first dorm room or a returning student looking to upgrade your space, having the right essentials can make all the difference. From comfort to convenience, we’ve curated a list of must-have items that will help you create a cozy and functional living environment.

1. ABENE Extra Thick Mattress Pad and Pillowtop Topper

“I LOVE that this mattress topper is a combo mattress cover and pad—one is for comfort and one is for protection from moisture and other gross things. It’s just the right size for the dorm TwinXL mattresses, and it’s hypoallergenic. Bonus: It comes vacuum sealed, so we can travel with it to school without it taking up all the car space.”

A good night’s sleep is essential for academic success, and this mattress pad ensures you’ll be comfortable all year long. Its dual functionality protects your mattress while providing extra cushioning.

2. BeeGreen Gray Laundry Backpack

“If you’ve been to school, you know how annoying it is to carry a laundry bag by those two thin rope straps. This one has substantial backpack straps, making hauling it to the laundry room so much easier.”

Say goodbye to dragging your laundry down the hall! This backpack-style laundry bag makes trips to the laundromat a breeze, and it’s stylish enough to carry around campus.

3. Bissell Featherweight Stick Lightweight Bagless Vacuum

“I’m not looking to spend a million dollars on fancy stick vacuums, and this one is a total steal. It also transforms into a handheld vacuum for smaller messes.”

Keeping your dorm clean can be a challenge, but this lightweight vacuum makes it easy. Its versatility allows you to tackle both large and small messes without breaking the bank.

4. BOHON LED Desk Light with USB C+A Charging Ports

“You can find charging lamps everywhere, but I specifically loved that this one came with two different types of chargers (USB and Type C).”

This desk lamp is not just for lighting; it’s a charging station too! With multiple charging options, it’s perfect for keeping your devices powered up while you study.

5. Lightomorrow Large Bulletin Board – 60 x 36 Inches

“In a desperate attempt to keep my son organized, I snagged a massive pinboard that will hold everything from photos to important papers.”

Stay organized and inspired with a large bulletin board. It’s perfect for pinning up reminders, schedules, and your favorite memories from home.

6. Hatisan Portable Shower Caddy

“This shower caddy is massive; it can hold those mega Costco-sized shampoo bottles. It also comes with a hook to hang in the shower, so you don’t have to put it down on a gross shower seat.”

A portable shower caddy is essential for communal living. This one is spacious enough to carry all your toiletries and features a convenient hook for easy access.

Conclusion

Equipping your dorm room with the right essentials can transform your college experience. From ensuring a good night’s sleep to keeping your space organized and clean, these items are designed to make your life easier. So, as you prepare for this exciting new chapter, consider adding these must-haves to your shopping list. Happy shopping, and here’s to a successful school year ahead!