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If you’re heading off to college for your freshman year, it’s time to get together your list of dorm room essentials.
In this post, we’re sharing the best classy dorm decorations and essentials for creating a stylish and practical space.
These are the dorm essentials you won’t regret buying! This is your ultimate checklist to organize before the big move in day.
Pajama Set // Sound Machine // Storage Basket // Wireless Lamp // Towel Set // Over The Door Hanger // Laundry Hamper // Power Strip // Shower Caddy // Bath Mat // Under The Bed Storage // Sheet Set
To keep it easy, we’ve broken it down into categories for easy planning and online shopping for any college student. These are the main “elements” of a dorm room and the must haves for each. Let’s get into the best dorm room decor ideas!
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Bedding and Sleep
Let’s start with the area of your dorm room you’ll likely spend the most time – your bed! Chances are, your days will be filled with classes and activities, and you may not spend time lounging in the dorm.
But you are guaranteed to rest your head each night in this space, and a night of good sleep is crucial during those college years.
There are sometimes fire alarms in the middle of the night, so a pajama set is a must.
Dorm buildings usually supply the dorm bed frame and mattress, but you should also bring a comforter, sheets, a mattress topper, and your favorite pillow.
Make the space feel like you, and add a few throw pillows or a cozy blanket to the bed in your color scheme.
For The Bathroom
Whether you have a bathroom in your room or a community style bathroom, these are a few things you’ll need. When it comes to towels, buy more than one set. You don’t want to have to do laundry multiple times per week!
If you have a bathroom in your room, a bath mat or rug is a great way to keep things clean and pretty. It’ll keep the floor dry and add some interest to the space.
If you have a communal bathroom, a shower caddy is a good option and an inexpensive way to make life easier. You always need more space than you realize, so this larger one is great.
Storage Solutions and Organization
A slim laundry basket is going to be essential in a dorm room. Or you can try a laundry backpack! This makes it easy to carry your clothing to the laundry room. The under the bed storage organizer is perfect for extra shoes, linens, or seasonal clothing.
One thing that could be easily forgotten but will be necessary to set up your closet is a good set of hangers.
If you plan to hang any wall decor, you’ll want a pack of these Command strips!
Most importantly, don’t forget to pack basic cleaning supplies, school supplies, and an emergency / first aid kit with any medications. These wicker storage baskets are great for storing supplies like this.
Desk and Study
The other main elements of a dorm room are the desk and office chair. Most dorms come with a desk and chair, but you’ll be responsible for bringing in the essentials and decor.
This trash can works perfectly beside a desk or bed. Don’t forget a power strip cord! You’ll have so many gadgets to charge that this power strip will become your new best friend.
A desk lamp is a must have because dorm lighting is not always the best, especially for late night studying.
Furniture and Decor
Lastly, here are a few larger items you may want to buy to make your life easier. You can repurpose these in a future college apartment, too.
There isn’t going to be a ton of extra space for extra furniture, but small storage ottomans
can serve multiple purposes. They provide extra seating, more storage space, and help tie a theme together.
This over the door mirror will be crucial for saving floor space! If you’re allowed to add curtains, you’ll want to consider blackout for a good night’s sleep.
Depending on the size of your room, you may want to add a mini fridge and small pantry storage with a rolling cart.
Other decor ideas are an area rug, a gallery wall with your favorite photos, string lights, wall art, bulletin board, or photo collages. Happy decorating!
Conclusion
Don’t let the lists of 50+ dorm room items overwhelm you. Sometimes, less is more! These are all of the best college dorm room ideas you’ll need.
Don’t forget that a dorm is a small space. Stick to the basics and carefully pack items you know will make your time at the dorm better. Sprinkle in a few decorative items, and you’ll be good to go.
