Dorm-Ready Items Every Incoming Freshman Needs
Decorating a dorm room is an art. In such a confined space, the empty room doesn’t seem as if there is much to work with, but on the contrary, the room can go from 0-100 with a few key pieces. Although it is extremely overwhelming searching for everything you might need going into college, I’ve found that it is much easier to break everything up into categories to make sure your dorm room looks amazing and includes everything you need before you get to campus.
There are three categories to consider when decorating your dorm; bedding, decor, and bathroom essentials. For bedding, some of the items are less exciting than others, but this is going to be the most important part of the room. The bed sets the tone and aesthetic of your space, so choosing the color scheme wisely is a must. Since freshmen usually have a roommate, both of you will constantly be in and out of the room and having friends over, so it is important to keep in mind that what you purchase for your dorm most likely will not last you past your first year.
Decor is the pivotal category of a fabulous dorm. Wall art, customized pillows, throw blankets, rugs, and lamps are all accents that tie the room together. If you are looking to have a minimalistic, calming room that you can really relax in, choosing white pieces for the majority of your bedding will light up the room. If you’re very girly, opting for blush tones with neutral and metallic accessories will add that extra feminine flare. Lastly, if your style is a bit more edgy, a darker headboard and rug paired with white bedding would do the trick. Decorating a dorm is very personal, your home away from home, so making sure that everything you choose is perfect for your personal style can be tricky. Here are a few things that can make your dorm room a little more home-y.
THE BED
1. Mattress Topper
College mattresses are not particularly clean or comfortable, so make sure that you have a protective cover over your mattress as well as a mattress topper for added comfort before putting on your sheets. Bed Bath and Beyond, DormCo, or even Target are great places to browse.
2. Sheets
An obvious necessity, but make sure you have two sets just in case you need to change them, or one set is in the wash! This style from PotteryBarn comes in TwinXL and is so cute and girly.
The Emily & Meritt Heart Sheet Set: $32.50 - $129
3. Comforter
This duvet cover set from Amazon is super affordable, while offering a very sleek all-white finish to your bed. Pairing this with different accent pillows and a throw blanket can completely transform your dorm room!
AmazonBasics Duvet Cover Set: $18.99
4. Pillows
Accent pillows are one of the most fun steps to completing your dorm shopping. Dormify has adorable pillows that are all on-trend and are offered in so many different colors and styles. If your room is more minimalistic, these three are adorable options.
Gaga Studded Pillow: $36; GG Star Pillow: $26; Faux Mongolian Square Pillow: $36
5. Throw blanket
This is the cosiest blanket I’ve ever owned and need to repurchase. While being aesthetically pleasing, it also is huge and cozy! A must-have on my checklist.
Snow Leopard Throw: $56.99
BATHROOM
1. Shower caddy
This bathroom essential doesn’t have to be hideous, you can easily bring your essentials to the hall shower with this marble-inspired caddy.
Shower Mesh Caddy: $29
2. Robe
Especially in hall-styling living, a robe is a must to walk back and forth from the shower or just to lounge in your room. This PotteryBarn robe is customizable and extremely cozy!
3. Sensitive skincare products
During your first few weeks in college, your skin is exposed to new surroundings, water pressure and stress, which are all variables that can cause breakouts. To avoid irritation and blemishes, it is important to have options just in case your skin turns into your enemy in this new environment.
CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser: $14.16; CeraVe Facial Moisturizing Lotion AM SPF 30: $13.47; Unscented Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser: $8.99
4. Hair Dryer
Any hair dryer will do the trick, but this mini size is perfect for travel and on-the-go!
5. Towels
A shower must-have, ordering cute towels to match your room aesthetic can make storage easier, especially if you want to leave them on display in your room like a spa!
Quick Dry Organic Towels: Prices Vary
DECOR
1. Stepping stool
Dorm Beds always seem like they are 10 feet from the ground, so having a stool is a must. An ottoman, pouf, or something to that effect will work, as long as it is sturdy and durable enough to support your body weight.
Faux Fur Pouf: $84.99
2. Bedside table with storage
With limited space in the room, having a bedside table with storage is super helpful. This style is very neutral and could work with a ton of different color schemes.
Amazon Dresser Storage Tower: $49.99
3. Laundry Bag
Walking up and down stairs to do your laundry can be a hassle, so this tote bag might make things a little easier, especially because it splits up the whites from the darks so you don't have to!
4. Under-the-bed storage
There is never enough space for clothes in a college dorm, especially for freshmen, so having a few of these 3 drawer towers under your bed can really help to fit all of your essentials.
3 Drawer Wide Weave Tower White : $22.99
5. Wall Art
Especially over your headboard or alongside your bed, wall art can change your room! Dormify has so many options this season that are adorable and can be reused throughout your time at school. Here are a few of my favorites!
Dormify: Prices Vary by Size
6. Lamp
A lamp for your bedside table and/or desks are must-haves for your dorm, as they can sometimes be very poorly lit, or you might need extra light on your side if your roommate wants to sleep and you need to finish an assignment before the deadline.
7. Rug
Rugs are so fun to choose, whether it be a printed antique style or a modern rug with fur, they can help to set the tone of your room. Here are some options I found that won’t break the bank but will definitely work for the year.
Plush Shag Rug: Prices Vary by Size; Gray Thigpen Rug: Prices Vary by Size
