Dorm Room Essentials Every College Student Needs To Thrive

Whether moving into a dormitory or an off-campus apartment, equipping your room with the proper household supplies and study appliances can enhance your overall college experience. Luckily, we made a list of must-have room objects for college students to help them stay organised, maximise their productivity, and create a home away from home.

Comfortable Bedding Supplies

Nothing shrieks "dorm life" like an uncomfortable single mattress, and a good night's sleep is essential for academic success. Invest in comfortable bedding and buy supplies that reflect your style while ensuring ease and durability.

 

The Best Bedding Types To Buy 

• Comfortable sheets and pillowcases (2 sets, and check with the college dorm for the size needed — some single mattresses are extra long.)
• Towels 
• Pillows
• Mattress pad if the place isn't furnished. Check with your college/residence for the size needed if they only supply a bed frame.
• Blankets
• Bedspread/comforter
• Clothes hangers
• Mini sewing kit (believe us, you don't want to have to head home every time a button pops off)
• Laundry basket
• Lint brush

 

Study Essentials

 

You want to somehow succeed  this semester among the endless parties? Then you’d better gear up! A reliable desk lamp will provide ample lighting for late-night study sessions, and a comfortable desk chair with proper back support is a must to keep you comfortable during long hours of studying. 

 

Gear Needed for Successful Studies

• A steady supply of pens and pencils
• Pencil holder and sharpener
• Notebooks 
• Sticky notes
• Stapler and staples
• Whiteboard or cork board for reminders and important dates
• Electronic storage media (memory cards and USB flash drives)
• Printer paper (if you have a printer, otherwise this is entirely pointless)
• Notebooks
• Folder with pockets
• Labels of various sizes
• 3 × 5 index cards (flash cards might be the one thing standing between passing or failing this semester)
• Rubber bands
• Tape
• Scissors
• Highlighter pens (multiple colours for the win!)
• Ruler
• Stamps and envelopes

 

Technological Tools 

 

Modern studies require modern tools. In today's digital age, technology is integral to college life, so you’ll need a reliable laptop or computer with the necessary software installed. 

 

Tech Tools To Tighten Your Studies 

• A printer can be handy for printing assignments, notes, and important documents. 
• Power strips, extension cords and 3-2 prong adapters will help you manage multiple electronic devices efficiently.
• Laptop and laptop stand/display for easy use to read and take notes
• Portable speakers — in the hustle and bustle of busy dorm life, having white noise or soothing sounds drown out the outside world will be a lifesaver. Alternatively, a great set of headphones will work wonders.
• HDMI cord if you have multiple monitors (absolute game-changer, trust us!)
• A separate ethernet cord for the computer if your room has wireless. There's nothing worse than slow-acting internet when rushing to submit a large assignment. 
• Surge protectors for any sudden power outages at the worst time.

 

Kitchen Equipment 

 

Cooking in a communal space doesn't need to be a life-or-death situation. Even if you’re living in an  accommodation with a fully furnished kitchen, having some cooking tools  in your room for personal use can ease up the mind and belly.

 

Kitchen Equipment To Keep in “Stock” 

• Microwave 
• Mini-fridge 
• Electric kettle
• Toaster oven 
• Simple cookware like pans, pots, and dining utensils. 
• Microwave-safe plates, bowls, and storage containers for any leftovers (especially when you're heading back from a family Sunday lunch)

 

Personal Care Products 

 

Take care of your body — it's the only one you’ve got! Remember to pack a shower caddy with all your much-needed products to and from the bathroom to prevent any public bathroom waddling back to the dorm for an essential piece you forgot.

Powerful Personal Care Products

• Personal towel 
• A bathrobe 
• Shower shoes (never walk barefoot in a communal shower!) 
• First aid kit (college can get wild)
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Shampoo and soap
• Hair dryer/straightener/curling iron
• Ear plugs
• Eye mask

 

Decorative Touches

 

Your dorm or apartment will be your headquarters/homebase/fortress for an entire year at least. Adding personal touches to your space can make it feel more like home. And remember that decor isn't just about looks and aesthetics; it's functional too! 

Be mindful of any restrictions or guidelines regarding room decorations in your college's housing guidelines.

 

Decorative Touches To Die For

• Posters, photographs, or artwork that reflect your personality and interests 
• Wall decals, string lights, and a cosy rug can add warmth and create a welcoming atmosphere 
• Adding extra seating is much more welcoming to guests than offering them a single desk chair or the floor 

 

Space-Saving Storage Solutions 

 

Managing your space matters a lot in dorms since you're typically limited to working with small areas. Efficient storage solutions are crucial to surviving and thriving in this new environment. 

 

Space-Saving Storage Solutions 

• Stackable desk trays
• Under-bed storage containers
• Hanging shelves
• Collapsible bins 
• Shoe racks
• Dividers 

 

Creating a functional and cushy living space will improve your overall well-being and academic success. Good luck on your college journey!

If you find your dorm room or apartment overflowing with clutter, why not ease the burden? Whether moving to new uni flats, visiting home or travelling over the summer, Len's Self Storage can help store your items, saving you the hassle and cost of constantly carrying unnecessary things around. You can even get together with friends and share a student self storage unit to split the cost and save some cash!