Dorm Room Tips to Help Create a Home Away From Home
Embarking on your college journey can bring bittersweet emotions for you and your parents. Ensuring you are well-prepared for dorm life and the possibility of sharing a room with one or more roommates will help ease your mind (and your parents’ minds!) when it comes time to give mom and dad a hug goodbye. Even if your dorm room is a glorified shoebox, we’ve got you covered with some tips and amazing product recommendations to maximize every square inch.
Before Move In Day:
Your college website will have information about your dorm room such as the floor layout, furniture included, whether or not the bed is a bunk or can be lofted, the cost for renting a mini-fridge, prohibited items, etc. This will help with planning and making smart purchases since space is always limited.
Once you know who your roommate(s) is, connect and work together to determine who is bringing special items such as a microwave, floor lamp, floor length mirror, etc. and how to make the space organized, inviting, and comfortable.
Check if your college campus offers convenient shipping and/or temporary storage services until you arrive at school such as Collegeboxes. Amazon is increasing its presence on college campuses across the nation and offers pickup points.
Move In Day and After:
Bring a measuring tape so you can measure closet shelves, hanging spaces, under bed space, and extra floor space. Some of the items on our shopping list will help you use every last inch of dorm room space wisely!
Make your room feel like home by adding decorative pillows, framed pictures, a small area rug, or even a hardy plant. Butterfly chairs are great for when friends stop by to hang out, and can easily fold up when floor space is needed. Storage ottomans serve double duty as extra seating.
Last but not least, try to make your bed everyday, whether it’s in the morning or afternoon! A made bed will give the impression of a tidy room and help you be more productive so you can get your work done and enjoy all the opportunities your college can offer.
Look at these handy products we’ve found to make your dorm room feel and function like home! Best wishes as you begin this new and exciting time in your life!
Your New Favorite Products…
Folding Desktop Hutch
Gain some extra storage space by adding a hutch like this. All of your textbooks and papers can be kept in arms reach while you are cramming for those exams.
Heavy Duty Large Storage Bags
These sturdy and roomy moving bags are great for packing and transporting clothes and shoes. The lightweight totes can even be stored on top of your closet and hold out-of-season clothing. When not in use, the bags fold down to a minimal size.
Shower Caddy
An absolute essential when sharing a bathroom, especially in the dorms. The mesh material on this caddy allows excess water to dry, preventing musty mildew.
Elfa Platinum Wide Drawer Solution
This Container Store staple maximizes closet space, or even under bed storage. The drawer system is a smart investment that will be used well after dorm life.
Under Bed Storage Boxes With Wheels
So jealous! Back in the dark ages when I was living in the dorms, I had to crawl under my bed to pull out the cumbersome laundry baskets storing my extras. I vividly remember bumping my head almost every time. Save yourself some head bumps and stash this rolling under bed box out of sight and easily pull it out when needed.
Charging Bed Risers
If your bed can be lifted, use risers to add height in order to store items underneath. Some riser options include handy electrical and USB outlets.
Dorm Bed Skirt
This bed skirt comes in a wide range of lengths and can hide everything under your bed.
Magic Space Saving Hangers
Limited on closet hanging space? Hang multiple hangers on one space saving organizer to fit more clothes in your closet!
Adjustable Closet Hanging Rod
Another smart way to increase cramped closet space. Place this adjustable rod on the existing closet bar to add a 2nd tier.
Laundry Backpack Duffle Bag
Not only are laundry baskets a pain to schlep up and down multiple flights of stairs, but who wants to risk having loose underwear fall out? Fill up this drawstring bag, place laundry detergent in the front pocket, and sling the bag on.
Plastic Storage Containers
Use these stackable containers with removable dividers to organize and contain small or loose items such as underwear, socks, cosmetics, or desk supplies.
Over the Door Storage
Place this hanging organizer over your room or closet door to hold pretty much anything. The velcro stickers included with the organizer prevents it from swinging every time the door is opened and closed.
Command Hooks
What did we do before Command hooks were invented?? Place them on the inside of your closet door to hang belts, jewelry, hats/caps. Stick them on your walls to hang wet towels, bags, décor. Never leave home without these!
Bedside Caddy
If you don’t have the space for a nightstand, this bedside storage organizer is a great alternative. Simply slide the steel frame under your mattress to hold the caddy in place. Your phone, laptop, remote, water bottle, books, etc. will all be within reach.
Mini Fridge Stand
Jealous again! Prop your fridge on top of this wire stand with two shelves to store plates, cups, and lots of snacks. The top shelf can even hold a small microwave.
Butterfly Chair
A butterfly chair is easy to fold up and stick in a corner when not needed, handy to have when extra lounge space is wanted.
Photo Pillow of a Family Pet
While it may not the real thing, hugging your cute pillow pet when missing your furry family member is sure to make you smile. :)