10 DORM ESSENTIALS YOU CAN'T LIVE WITHOUT
Moving into a dorm? Whether you're a college freshman or a seasoned pro heading back for another semester, one thing’s for sure: having the right stuff makes all the difference.
Here’s a list of 10 dorm essentials you seriously can’t live without. Plus a pro tip... you can add them right to your Dorm Corner Wishlist (you’ll thank us later):
You’re not allowed to put holes in the walls, but that doesn’t mean you can’t decorate or organize. Command hooks are your best friend: you can hang towels, fairy lights, keys, bags, and more! Bonus: no damage when you move out.
Why lug your laundry bin down the hall when you could simply roll it? Wheels are a must, especially if your laundry room is on the other side of campus.
Dorm beds really aren’t the most comfy. A mattress topper is a game-changer for a good night’s sleep. You’ll thank yourself every morning!
4. POWER STRIP/SURGE PROTECTOR
You’ll probably have more gadgets than outlets. A power strip not only gives you more plugs but also protects your electronics from surges, which do happen in old dorm buildings.
Some dorms have terrible lighting. A good desk lamp helps you avoid straining your eyes—and if it has USB ports, you can charge your devices while studying or doomscrolling at 2 a.m.
They may seem extra, but velvet hangers are a dorm closet game-changer. They're slim, so you can fit more clothes in tiny wardrobes, and the non-slip material keeps everything from sliding off.
7. STORAGE BINS (that fit under the bed)
Space is limited, so you’ve got to get creative. Under-bed storage bins are perfect for stashing extra clothes, snacks, shoes, or your childhood stuffed animals.
8. SHOWER CADDY + SHOWER SHOES
Unless you have a private bathroom, you’ll be using communal showers. A plastic shower caddy and rubber flip-flops are must-haves. Nobody wants to touch that floor. Ever.
Let’s face it: dorm tap water isn’t always the freshest. A compact water filter pitcher makes staying hydrated so much easier. Plus, it saves you from constantly buying plastic water bottles and awkwardly hauling 24-packs across campus.
10. MINI FIRST AID KIT (or a full fledged DIY FIRST AID KIT)
It doesn’t have to be intense, just stock it with the basics: pain relievers, allergy meds, band-aids, cold medicine, and maybe some cough drops. When you inevitably get the freshman flu, you’ll be glad you have it.
Packing for college can be overwhelming, but bringing the right dorm essentials can make it so much easier. Start with these 10, and you’ll be well on your way to surviving—and thriving—in dorm life!