College Dorm Essentials :: What You Really Need (and Don’t Need)
Welcome to freshman year of college! If you’re moving away, tag your mom in this post. You both need it.
I’m sure by now (I hope) you’ve received a list of dorm living essentials form your school. You’ve studied it, made lists, and shopped for all the things. The excitement is building!
Just remember: What goes into that dorm in August must come out in May.
Don’t make this harder than it needs to be!
Let’s get into it:
Bedding – DUH!
XL Twin sheet sets. Yes, plural. Don’t get put in a situation where you’re washing at midnight on a Sunday. Just change them and do the laundry later.
Comforter or blanket, the choice is yours!
Mattress toppers are a must. Dorm beds are not lux. Get the topper.
Bathroom Essentials:
This depends on how your living quarters are set up. Do you have a community bath down the hall? Or do you have a semi-private or fully private bath (LUCKY!)?
For a community bathroom, you should bring: towels, shower items, shower shoes, a shower caddy to carry it all in, and a robe/slippers. Don’t forget something to hold your ID/room key. Don’t get locked out!
For a semi-private & private bathroom, talk to your suitemates. Split some items. Obviously, bring your own towels, but you could split up any decor, bath mats, and shower curtain obligations.
Kitchenette / Makeshift Food Station:
My daughter’s dorm had a common area with a large countertop so the girls split up the space with countertop appliances such as an air fryer, microwave, and Keurig coffee maker. Since her unit was set up with 4 suitemates (2 in each room), they decided on 2 mini-fridges. Please check your dorm specs for these appliances as there are rules! Don’t forget dish soap and cleaning supplies for dishes, too.
Clothing:
I know that your first thought is, “I need everything!” No, you do not. Your closet is the size of a shoebox and your dresser is more than likely a 3 drawer-night stand situation. You will be going home between semesters. Pack for your region’s weather with a transitional piece or two. You do not need your entire wardrobe.
**Don’t forget rain gear. You still have to go to class in the rain.
Same suggestions goes for shoes. Space is limited. Side note: you could use storage ottomans for multiple uses like shoe storage or a step to get into your bunk. Keep that in mind.
Speaking of storage:
The cube organizers worked really well, as did the three-tiered rolling carts and a collapsible clothes hamper.
Laundry:
Most dorms have laundry facilities. Make sure you are equipped to pay per load with quarters. Although, I think most have a tap to pay option these days. Bring your own detergent and don’t leave your items in the machines!
TV:
If you are sharing a room with a roommate, you probably only need one tv. Coordinate accordingly.
Personal items:
Lastly, bring some personal items from home. Pictures of friends and family and maybe a rug to make that cold floor more cozy. You will see rooms professionally decorated and you will see rooms with just the essentials to get by. Make it your own, but may I suggest setting a budget? While this is an important step to gaining some independence, there is no need to break the bank for temporary housing.
