Outfitting a dorm (especially for freshman year) can be overwhelming and expensive. There are so many necessities, like bedding, bathroom essentials, desk supplies, and more. We’ve found some must-have items to add to your dorm room checklist before heading off to college, and the best part is they are all on sale right now from Amazon. Read on for our top picks.
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A Fan That Sits on a Nightstand or Desk
There are a lot of dorm rooms out there that don’t have air conditioning units, especially in older buildings. Make sure to add a fan to your shopping list, like this one from Honeywell that is super quiet and can fit on a desk or the floor.
Extra Hanging Space for Closets
Maximize the limited space in a closet with these hangers that take up the space of one or two hangers but hold up to five items. This set comes with twelve organizers and works with most regular hangers.
A Rechargeable Vacuum That Won’t Take up a Lot of Space
There might not be enough space in a dorm for a full vacuum, but this mini car vac can clean up around a bed and desk in a snap and is recharged via a USB cable.
A Brightly Colored Throw Rug To Cozy It Up
This faux wool rug will add a pop of color to a dorm room. It’s available in multiple sizes an colors and has a rubber backing so it doesn’t slide on wood floors.
A Plate and Utensil Set for 20% Off
Don’t spend a ton of money on nice plates, bowls, and glasses that are bound to get lost or broken. This reusable plastic set is perfect for meals in the dorm instead of the cafeteria and even comes with utensils.
A Hanging Dresser Option With 13,000+ Reviews
This easy-to-pack item collapses down when not in use but pops open for stowing everything from clothes to towels to shoes. It comes in nine different colors, and you might even want to grab the two-pack and use the extra one for your next trip as these are also great for travel.
A Desk Organization System
Most coursework might be on a laptop, but there’s still a place for post-it notes, scissors, and pens, and more importantly, a place to keep them all. This organizer will keep everything easily accessible.
A Trash Can With a Lid
A trash can is a necessity, and one with a lid will keep odors at bay… even if it isn’t emptied daily. This one has a motion sensor that will open when waved at and a liner ring to keep the bag from falling inside.
A Full Bedding Set In a Bag
Instead of buying sheets and comforters separately, this affordable set has everything they’ll need for bedding bundled together. There’s 14 colors to pick from and at around $40 you won’t even get upset when they never use their flat sheet.
A Portable Shower Caddy
Plastic caddies can get moldy if they aren’t cleaned out properly, but this mesh one allows water to flow through the spaces and dries quickly. It can tote shampoos, soaps, and beauty products to a shared bathroom easily.
An All-Inclusive Sheet Set
Your bed will feel like a home away from home with this sheet set. It’s made with a microfiber material and comes with a fitted sheet, flat sheet, and two pillowcases. It’s available in a variety of colors to fit your dorm room vibe.
A Morento Air Purifier for 42% Off
This Morento air purifier covers rooms up to 2050 square feet which means it (should) cover your entire dorm room. It has an air quality display, giving you updates on your home’s air quality. And it has a special 4-layer filtration system that removes over 99% of air impurities.
An Organizer for Extra Storage
This organizer comes with two shelves and two bins, which would be perfect for storing clothes and shoes. Shoppers say it’s sturdy and easy to install.
A Pack of Non-Slip Hangers
It’s easy to miss the small things, like hangers. This pack comes with 30, each one made with a velvet material that gently grips to your clothing so they don’t slip off.
A Power Strip To Charge Your Devices
This power strip comes with a variety of ports that let you charge your laptop, tablet, and phone. It has a built-in surge protector and anti-skid base.
A Towel Set for Only $20
This towel set comes with two bath towels, two hand towels, and two washcloths. They’re crafted with a super absorbent material that shoppers say is ultra-soft to the touch.
A Shower Curtain That’s Water-Resistant
If your dorm room has a shower, then you’ll need a shower curtain. This one is made with a waterproof material and it comes with hooks for a quick and easy installation.
An Organizer for Shoe Storage
This organizer slips right over your door and gives you enough space to store ten pairs of shoes. It comes with the hardware for what shoppers say is a super easy install. With 4.7 stars, you can’t go wrong.
A Laundry Bag With Shoulder Straps
We like that this laundry bag has shoulder straps to make it easier to carry and that it has a designated spot for detergents.
Slide-On Shower Shoes
Designed to be worn in the water, these sandals have a non-slip grip and will keep bare feet off the tiles in communal bathrooms.
A Dinnerware Set for 22% Off
This dinnerware set comes with a variety of plates and bowls that’s the perfect amount for a dorm room. They’re made with durable materials that are dishwasher and microwave-safe.
A Toaster With 30,000+ Reviews
Your dorm room probably won’t come with a toaster, so you’ll want to make the investment. It works with bread and bagels and comes with six different cooking settings.
Some Dumbbells With a Storing Rack
If you’re looking for some dorm workout essentials, then this dumbbell set will come in handy. It has a variety of different weights and a storage rack that takes up minimal space.
A Kettlebell for Under $20
This kettlebell would be great for dorm workouts. It has a vinyl coating that’s gentle on floors, and it’s compact so it’s easy to store.
An LED Desk Lamp With Charging Outlets
Space is at a premium in dorm rooms, so devices that can serve multiple purposes are key. This LED lamp has three brightness levels as well as charging outlets and USB ports. There’s even a 60-minute timer to turn it off automatically after late-night study sessions.
A Nightlight and Alarm Clock Combo
Even though a phone can be used as an alarm clock, a backup is necessary (especially for early morning classes). This clock also works as a Bluetooth speaker with the option to wake up to music!
A Colorful Bean Bag Chair for a Cozy Study Spot
This cushy chair will be a go-to study spot as its got pockets for a water bottle and a tablet or book. It will also give friends a seat when they come to visit. It comes in an assortment of bright hues.
A Portable Clothes Steamer for 25% Off
We have this steamer and use it all the time instead of ironing. It plugs right in, uses just a little bit of water, heats up fast, and removes wrinkles easily.
A Small Fridge That Fits Under a Desk
Minifridges can be one of the larger expenses for a dorm room, and this option is on sale for under $150. It’s small enough to fit under a desk or in the bottom of a closet but can keep all their drinks and leftovers chilled.
An Electric Rice Cooker
Check dorm rules on electronics and cooking gear, but if allowed, this electric rice cooker can help make one-pot meals at the touch of a button.
Flameless Candle Set
Many dorms don’t allow candles because they are a fire hazard (open flames and all), but real candle vibes are still possible with this two-pack of LED candles that will flicker like the real deal.
A Pitcher-Style Water Filter
Not all water qualities are the same, but this Brita can help filter out impurities from tap water. Plus, this pitcher style can fit right in a fridge for access to cold, fresh water to fill up that Stanley cup.
A Surge Protector for Extra Outlet Space
This compact surge protector has spaces for several devices at once, with standard outlet plugs as well as USB cable spots. The fifteen-foot cable can stretch the length of the room.
An 8-Piece Towel Set With 61,000+ Reviews
Choose from 25 different colors of this cotton towel set that includes four washcloths, two hand towels, and two larger bath towels.
A Pack of Down Alternative Pillows
Get ready for some sweet dreams with these thick pillows. They are made from a hypoallergenic material, come in three different firmness settings, and can support back, side, and stomach sleepers.
A Rolling Cart for Extra Storage
This versatile cart can be used for just about anything, from toting bathroom supplies down the hall to keeping books and a computer stashed under a desk when not in use. It can even be a nightstand that can be moved out of the way when people are visiting.
A Deep Mattress Topper
Typical dorm rooms use a Twin XL mattress, and you’ll want to invest in a mattress topper for better quality sleep. This affordable one is made from bamboo viscose for breathability, and it’s machine washable.
Folding Closet Storage to Maximize Space
Dorms are notoriously short on closet space, so maximize storage with this rack that can be mounted on a door (make sure to check the rules before installing). It can hold up to 60 pounds and is perfect for things like coats and nicer outfits.
A Safe Box for Valuables
This combination box will keep a laptop, cash, and passport safe, and there’s an attached cable that can be tethered to the bed for an extra layer of security.
A Bedside Caddy That Acts ss a Nightstand
This shelf attaches to any standard bed and gives a spot to put a phone, book, and water. There’s an indented spot to hold a cup, and it can hold up to 50 pounds of weight.
A Bathroom Essentials Set
If the dorm has its own bathroom instead of a larger shared space, this set includes a trash can, soap dispenser, toothbrush holder, soap dish, cup, and toilet brush. It comes in five different muted colors that will match any decor.
A Daily Planner to Stay Organized
These daily sheets are helpful for staying on task. It’s got categories and checklists for all of the important classes, water intake, and assignments.
An All-Inclusive First Aid Kit
Accidents are bound to happen, and so be ready for minor cuts and scrapes with this first aid kit filled with gauze, bandages, and scissors. It also includes some outdoor supplies like a firestarter and a thermal blanket. It might be good to grab a second one to keep in the car.