Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, in which I will receive a commission for if you purchase using my link. However, this is of no additional cost to you.
Just in time for the start of the semester!
Dorm rooms are notorious for not being big enough-and this year, with everything else going on, the LAST thing you want to worry about is “Do I have everything I need?” Don’t worry, I have compiled a list of things you will need to kick off the year right, or maybe to just make your small apartment feel a bit more cozy.
- Mini Fridge
This is a great thing to have in a small space, because it provides you a place to store your beverages and cold products without having to have a full refrigerator take up all your space.
2. Roku Stick
Where would I be without my Roku?? HIGHLY recommend. You can get one here on Amazon for less than 40 bucks, and it lets you access more TV and movies than you know what to do with. This will save you money on cable as well.
3. Shower Shoes
This one is for my dorm room folks out there. Shower shoes are a MUST. Trust me. You do not want to touch that shared shower floor with your bare feet.
4. Storage Containers
Storage containers really help you stay organized and put together, and under the bed organizers help save space when space is limited. Additionally, over the door organizers do the same, and are perfect for shoes, bathroom, and cleaning products.
Going along the same lines is storage containers for food, or Tupperware containers. This is helpful in college because you can bring back food from the dining hall to eat for later, and if you aren’t in college, using these containers can help you save money by making your own food more often to bring to work/school, and eating out less often!
5. A small coffee maker
Forget going to Starbucks every day-get a coffee maker! Save time and money. This Keurig is amazing and you won’t be able to taste a difference, especially with K Cups like “Donut Shop” and…wait for it…..Starbucks. You’re welcome.
6. Cleaning Supplies
Even if it WASN’T CoronaVirus season, you still need to stay clean. Disinfectant wipes, a Swiffer, etc. Just your basics to get you through.
7. FELT. HANGERS.
Amazing. Saves space and looks sleek as well. Get a 30 pack right here on Amazon for 16.99.
8. Laundry Hamper
While living in a dorm room, you have to take your clothes to the laundry room to be washed. So invest in a good laundry hamper while in college! Also, pro tip, don’t let your clothes pile up too high before you need to do laundry again, or you’ll be toting it alllllll down to the laundry room to be washed and regretting every decision.
9. Small Trash Can
Pretty self explanatory. You’re gonna need it, and it can be one of those things you forget to buy.
10. Extended Phone Charger
Great investment, especially when you’re lying in bed and need to charge your phone, but the plug in is just a liiiiiiittle too far away to reach. Amazon has a 3 pack of 10 ft iPhone chargers for less than 10 bucks, which is a STEAL.
11. Microwave
A microwave is a great thing to have, whether you’re just heating up leftovers from the dining hall or making a TV dinner. Plus, they don’t take up too much space.
12. Storage Ottoman
When I think of these, I think of it being more so for an apartment than a dorm room, but either way, it is worth the money in my opinion. Not only does it store whatever you want inside, but it also doubles as a chair if need be. Amazon has this comfy looking one for less than $25 bucks.
13. Futon Sofa Bed
Again, this is mainly for my apartment folks out there, because in a dorm beds are already set up, buuuuuut if you’re in a small apartment/running low on money, a futon sofa bed may be for you. Is it just me or are these actually cool?? A bed that is also a couch?? Anyways, you can find some pretty cozy looking options here and here if interested.
14. The warmest, coziest robe you can find
In a dorm room, when you go to take a shower, the walk back to your room may be cold, and quite frankly, you may not want to immediately put your PJ’s on. Or, maybe it’s SO cold you need that extra layer of warmth. Whatever the reason, robes are always a good thing to have, and can make your bad days just a little better.
This by NO means is a complete list. There are many other things you need to start your semester of college, as well as make your small apartment feel more “home-y”. Remember to let some light into your space to make it feel larger and more relaxed, put on some of your favorite music, and surround yourself with good people, because those are must haves as well 🙂
Talk to you guys next time!
One thought on “Must-Haves For Dorm Rooms and Small Apartments”