Every incoming or current college student hopes to have the perfect dorm room. Truth be told, transitioning from living in your bedroom to a college dorm isn’t easy — there are so many things you can’t control, including the type of roommate you get. But the numerous uncontrollable variables in college shouldn’t stop you from creating a top-tier atmosphere in your dorm room, and there are a bunch of unexpected extras you should be adding to your space to bring it to the next level.
It’s so important for you to feel comfortable in your new home. Over time, your dorm room will turn into a multitude of rooms — a kitchen, a study area, a gym… the list goes on. As a recent graduate and someone who lived in residence housing for most of their college career, I can say with confidence that your dorm room is crucial to having a positive college experience. Moving three hours away from my hometown to college, having my room feel like a sanctuary aided me in a smooth transition from high school to undergrad.Whether you’re heading to college for the first time or deciding to continue on-campus housing, here are some unexpected necessities you should look into in creating your dorm dreamscape for sleep, studying, and self-care.
- Steamer ($17)
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Buying a steamer is a college must-have, and TBH, it’s easier to use than an iron. If you’re in a rush to get to class, all you need to do is hang up one of your garments and run the steamer over it. By purchasing a travel-sized steamer, you can easily fit it in your dorm room and pack it when you travel.
- Bed Risers ($20)
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Bed risers can help you gain approximately six inches of storage space, which is crucial for small college dorm rooms. Bed risers are also compatible with all bed types. Before purchasing a bed riser for your college dorm, though, make sure it’s allowed — check your school’s housing policies.
- Floor Pillows ($15)
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Coming in all shapes and designs, floor pillows will fully maximize the coziness of your dorm room. You can also buy pillows in assorted colors to make your room more vibrant and welcoming for your friends.
- Cooling mattress pad ($40)
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Say goodbye to night sweats by investing in a cooling mattress pad. Sleep is crucial to feeling comfortable in your new dorm. By investing in a cooling mattress pad, you don’t have to worry about being uncomfortable and losing sleep. This mattress pad comes in all sizes and is temperature-regulated.
- Planter ($13)
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This planter includes built-in speakers and RGB color spectrum lights. Ultimately, with the led smart gardening planter, you can plant during your free time while listening to music.
- Dry Erase Calendar ($11)
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Having a dry-erase board calendar will help you stay on top of your daily tasks and assignments, which is huge — especially if you’re an incoming freshman. The board can also be used to pin photos, reminders, and quick notes. Board calendars like this can easily be mounted and removed on your dorm walls with Command strips.
- Cosmetic Organizer ($25)
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With a cosmetic organizer, you can spice up your self-care routine. The organizer includes three drawers, a divided top, and metallic details with rosy accents, which help give this organizer a chic aesthetic. Ultimately, adding a cosmetic organizer to your dorm room will allow you to practice self-care and help you get glam.
- Coffee Maker ($60)
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Starbucks may be near your college dorm, but it isn’t open 24/7. Luckily, by having a coffee maker in your dorm, you can quickly and easily brew hot or iced coffee in less than four minutes. This one includes a reusable tumbler, lid, and straw, a reusable gold-tone coffee filter, and a dual-sided scoop.
- Retro Alarm Clock ($17)
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Having an additional alarm clock can aid you in heading to your classes on time. Having a retro alarm clock can also add to your dorm decor, as it gives off a nostalgic and vintage design.
- Lighted Vanity Mirror ($26)
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In addition to the cosmetic organizer, investing in a lighted vanity mirror will help you glam, and will brighten up the room. With the option of natural or soft light, the vanity mirror can further illuminate your beauty.
- Folding Shelf With Wheels ($65)
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A folding shelf with wheels also helps in making your dorm room experience more eventful. It opens and folds in seconds, folds flat for storage, and there are no tools required for setting it up. The shelf capacity is 250 pounds.
- LED Lamp ($14)
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Having a LED lamp light will provide a bright and uplifting atmosphere to your college dorm. LED neon lamp lights also come in many shades and styles. Ultimately, having a LED lamp light can add and showcase your personality within your dorm room. This lamp comes in blue, pink, and warm white.
- Back Pillow ($18)
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This backrest pillow comes in many shapes, sizes, and styles, and it remains an understated necessity for dorm rooms. Support your lower neck and back in style.
- Storage Bins ($16-27)
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Getting a few storage bins can further help maximize your dorm space while complimenting your overall room aesthetic. You can put these storage bins wherever, whether in your closet or under your bed, and they come in a range of sizes. Having a few storage bins will make moving in and out of your dorm way easier, too.
