Fall is right around the corner, and whether you’re heading back to campus or just starting your freshman year, Homespacedecor has everything you need to outfit any college dorm room while staying within your budget. Moms and dads – if it’s your little bird leaving the nest, go ahead and pass this link on to them so they’re ready for their next big chapter. Check out our top dorm room picks and tips below to get on the dean’s list of styles.
Before You Shop
Check with roommates to see who’s bringing larger items like a TV, microwave, and mini-fridge. You’ll have a more flexible budget if you only have to bring one or two of these items instead of all of them.
Look up your room’s floor plan online and read about what’s provided from the school, as well as their list of suggestions and prohibited items. Most rooms have pretty standard dorm furniture including a bed, dresser, closet, desk, and chair for each person. Newer suite- or apartment-style accommodations may also have a bathroom and kitchen, so check what’s included in those rooms to find out what you’ll need to make your space comfortable and functional.
Catch Those Zs
Many rooms have bunk beds or lofted beds, so you don’t have to worry about things like a bed skirt. Dorm beds can take some getting used to, so a mattress pad is a smart choice to add an extra layer of comfort. You’ll also want to be sure to have a set of pillows. It’s also nice to have a throw blanket handy for chillier nights or just some extra warmth while hanging out.
A bed in a bag set makes outfitting your bed easy with a comforter, sheet set, and pillowcases, but you’ll also want to have a spare set of sheets on hand for days when the laundry’s the last thing on your mind. Most schools’ beds are twin XL size, which is longer than a standard twin mattress. Be sure to check with your school to be sure you get the right size bedding.
Chow Down
Whether you have a basic room or a suite, you’ll want to have a good microwave and mini-fridge to keep cold water and your favorite study fuel handy. Some schools include these items standard in rooms, so be sure you need them before purchasing. A small set of dishes and silverware is an environmentally friendly alternative to disposables. If you have a suite with a kitchen, a basic cookware set will be sure you eat well when the dining hall just won’t cut it. You may also want to bring along a coffee maker or slow cooker, but you’ll need to double-check with the school that those items are allowed.
Take a Load Off
The desk chair that comes with your room is great for getting work done, but when you’re ready to relax or have friends over, it’s far from ideal. A Big Joe Dorm Chair is good for reading and binge-watching your favorite TV after homework’s done. Ottomans can double as seating as well. Pick one with storage options to help keep your space tidy. If you have a lofted bed, consider adding a futon below for extra seating and sleeping space – but be sure to check the dimensions to ensure it will fit in your room. And of course, for tailgates, campus events, and larger hangouts, a camp chair is good to have on hand and folds up for easy storage.
Get Squeaky Clean
Ah, the joys of a shared bathroom. It’s not the most glamorous, but having to head down the hall for a shower is much easier with a set of towels, a tote to hold all your toiletries, and a cozy bathrobe. If you’re lucky enough to have a bathroom in your suite, a bath set with a curtain, rugs, and hooks makes it easy to give your bathroom instant style.
Tidy Up
When you’re sharing a small space with roommates, it’s important to keep your own items organized to keep the peace. A colorful storage cart keeps little things handy and can also hold classroom materials while an over the door organizer can be used for much more than shoes. A trunk pulls double duty by making it easier to move in and storing out-of-season clothes or bulkier items.
Of course, you also need to keep your space (and your stuff) clean. We like this laundry kit because it includes a hamper and a drawstring bag, along with other essentials – and some easy instructions if you’re not used to doing laundry on your own. Some schools provide a trash can, but a colorful one with a lid helps keep odors contained and waste out of sight. If your room is carpeted or you’re bringing a rug, a small vacuum is also nice to have around for quick cleaning, but it’s not a necessity as your dorm may have a vacuum available to borrow.
Decorate Great
Dorm room lighting can be a bit unforgiving, and alternative lighting options can help keep your space feeling cozy. A desk lamp is a must-have for classwork. We like this one because it also includes a USB charging port for your phone and long-lasting LED bulbs. String lights are also a popular choice and come in a variety of whimsical options.
Make your space with your décor. Colorful rugs and cool tapestries help your dorm room feel less industrial and reflect your personality. Show off pictures of friends back home or new memories you make with a fun desktop photo display. Remember that you can’t use nails, staples, or pins to hang your wall art, so invest in some damage-free hanging materials. Many schools also let you have a finned friend, and this funky little habitat will make him feel right at home.
Practical Picks
We’re not trying to sound like your mom here, but there are a few extras that are good to keep on hand for your comfort and safety. A small flashlight is essential in the event of power outages – or when you just can’t find your phone and don’t want to wake up your roomie. Keep your room from feeling stuffy with a personal fan, and reach the way back of that top shelf in the closet with a folding step stool. A lockbox for personal items and a first aid kit are also smart to keep around and give your folks a little extra peace of mind.
Get Set for Success
Once your room is set up and you’re all settled in, it’s time for the important part: getting those grades … which means getting to class. A real alarm clock will be sure to rouse you for 8 a.m. lectures, and this one doubles as a Bluetooth speaker so you can rock out when you’re done for the day. Know what’s on your plate with an erasable wall organizer, and get yourself from class to class with a laptop backpack and travel mug.
Off to Campus
Now that you’ve got the big things covered, all that’s left is the small stuff like power strips, extension cords, classroom supplies, and toiletries – and of course all your favorite clothes. Heading to college can be an exciting (and sometimes scary) experience, so we’ll leave you with our best advice: work hard, make lifelong friends, and have a blast.
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