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Your dorm is where you spend a lot of your time, from late-night study sessions to binge-watching TV with your besties and, of course, catching some z’s. And that means it should be a place you feel comfortable in!
When you first enter your dorm room, it might be hard to envision it becoming your home away from home. Let’s be honest: the white cinderblock walls, fluorescent lighting, and classic blue mattress aren’t exactly… inviting. But by planning ahead — and packing the right things — you can transform your dorm into a space that’s comfortable, stylish, and functional.
Not sure where to start? We’ve got you covered with our fave dorm decor essentials from the Better Homes & Gardens collection at Walmart to add to your packing list!
CHair
Most dorms come with limited furniture — usually a bed, a desk and desk chair, and a dresser or wardrobe — which doesn’t give you a ton of options for seating. Bringing an extra chair for your room creates additional space for studying, relaxing, and hanging with friends. And who wouldn’t want to curl up in this extra cozy style?
Better Homes & Gardens Mira Swivel Chair, $248
SHEETS
While sheets might not be the most exciting things on your dorm shopping list, they are one of the most important. You’ll (hopefully) spend 8 hours every night sleeping between your sheets, so be sure to choose some that are breathable, soft, and easy to wash.
Better Homes & Gardens 400 Thread Count Hygro Cotton Bed Sheet Set, $45
MAKEUP MIRROR
If you live in a dorm with a shared bathroom, chances are your desk will end up doubling as your makeup and skincare station. So, turn your makeshift vanity into a functional space for creating stunning ~lewks~ by adding a light-up makeup mirror.
Better Homes & Gardens Freestanding Round LED Lighted Vanity Mirror, $35
FULL-LENGTH MIRROR
Speaking of mirrors, a full-length mirror is also a must-have for any dorm room. Not only will it give you a spot to do your daily fit check before you head out the door, but an oversized style can make your room feel a little bigger, too.
Better Homes & Gardens Metal Oversized Full Length Mirror, $93
SIDE TABLE
Dorms don’t typically come with side tables for your bed or futon, so bringing your own can be super helpful. We love an option that offers extra storage space for pillows and throw blankets.
Better Homes & Gardens Storage Round Nesting Tables, Set of 2, $68
DESK LAMP
Like we mentioned before, there’s a good chance your desk will end up doubling as your beauty counter and a study spot. Whether you’re making flashcards or giving yourself a mani, a desk lamp will help illuminate your workspace (and make your life *so* much easier). Plus, you can save valuable outlet space by choosing a desk lamp with a built-in outlet for charging your devices.
Better Homes & Gardens Gold Desk Lamp, $40
DRAWER ORGANIZER
Fashion girlies know that fitting all of your clothes in a dorm closet or dresser can be tough. That’s why drawer organizers are a lifesaver. From socks to crop tops, they’ll keep your clothes tidy and organized, which makes getting ready easier, too.
Better Homes & Gardens Underbed Storage & Drawer Organizer Set, $23
COMFORTER OR QUILT
Want to make your dorm bed as cozy as your bed at home? A comforter or quilt is the perfect finishing touch. Pro-tip: Go with something that’s equal parts soft and stylish, so you can curl up in comfort at night and keep your dorm looking fab during the day.
Better Homes & Gardens Sage Diamond Gauze Quilt, $55
THROW BLANKET
I don’t know about you, but whether I’m working or lounging, I always have to have a blanket on me. If you can relate, be sure to pack a throw blanket (or two) in your back-to-school suitcase. Not only will they help keep you warm in a drafty dorm room, but they can also double as extra bedding when your hometown besties come to visit.
Better Homes & Gardens Cozy Knit Throw, $25
SHOE STORAGE
There’s no such thing as too many shoes, but figuring out where to put them all in your dorm can be tricky. Luckily, you can create extra storage space for your kicks with a hanging shoe organizer. Just hang it over any door and use the clear plastic shelves to store, protect, and display up to 12 pairs!
Better Homes & Gardens 24-Shelf Over the Door Closet Shoe Organizer, $26
STORAGE BASKETS
We love decor that’s both functional and stylish — and woven storage baskets are exactly that. From clothes to towels, throw blankets, and even magazines, these baskets can be used for just about anything you want to tuck away.
Better Homes & Gardens Round Seagrass Baskets, $42
BEDSIDE LAMP
Not loving the fluorescent overhead lights in your dorm? Bringing your own bedside lamp can make your space feel a lot more homey (and keep you from having to get out of bed to turn out the lights after a binge-reading session).
Better Homes & Gardens 18″ Woven Rattan Table Lamp, $39
DIFFUSER
If you aren’t allowed to have candles in your dorm but want to keep it smelling delish, reed diffusers are a great no-flame alternative. Plus, they couldn’t be simpler to use: Just place them on your nightstand or desk and flip the reeds every so often to refresh the scent.
Salted Coconut & Mahogany Better Homes & Gardens Reed Diffuser, $10
BOOKCASE
Need a place to put all of your textbooks or your never-ending TBR collection? Create your own mini library in your dorm room by bringing a sleek, stylish bookcase. It’s not just for storing books, either — you can also use it to display plants, framed photos, jewelry, and even your fave perfume bottles!
Better Homes & Gardens Springwood 5 Shelf Solid Wood Bookcase, $227