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College Dorm Needs: The Basics - compiled list for my college freshman!
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items My daughter is starting college this fall. I have researched online and found all sorts of suggestions for things she needs. I decided to compile them here so I can start checking off all the suggested needs! Hope this helps you too.
Sections
9
Checklist
Decor Basics
Kitchen Basics
Bathroom Basics
Clothing Basics
School Basics
Checklist
While I have more things on this page, I have a basics checklist that I created. Hope it is helpful as you get basics for your girl or guy!
I created a checklist in case you want to be able to mark things off as you go along!
Dorm Room Essentials Checklist, Printable College Packing List, Back to School Dorm Must-Haves for Girls & Guys, Dorm Room Basics download
Decor Basics
We are not fancy people, so we won't be spending a fortune decorating her dorm room. Here are some basics to get her started. (We are not buying all of these. I just found some options and presented them to her.)
Lamps are a must for softer light - this is a smaller one, but it also has usb ports and a touch base
Touch Bedside Table Lamp with USB - 3 Way
It isn't cute, but I love how it has the power strip and charging ports on it.
Power Strip & LED Desk Lamp, 3 Outlets, 4 USB
I just thought this floor lamp was fun! Knowing my daughter - she would like this one.
FULSUNT 42W LED RGB Floor Lamp with Remote
Love this shaggy rug. Tile is cold! We got this one in black.
Ophanie 3x5 Grey Fluffy Shag Area Rug
Another shaggy rug option - definitely think 4x6 is the way to go
Zentavio 4x6 Feet Soft Fluffy Area Rug
These are cute - and my daughter already has the polaroid camera! - Bought these for her grad party and now sending to college with her!
17Ft 50 LED Fairy String Lights with Clips
Great for studying & hanging out - like it has pockets! She loves hers.
Nestl Reading Pillow - Shredded Foam Grey
Need this to be able to hang things on the wall!
EZlifego Heavy Duty Double Sided Tape 9.85FT
My daughter would die if I bought this for her - I might get my sister to get it. Ha!
Take Your Ass To Class Funny Dorm Sign 8x10
Cute mini trash can! I got trash bags to go with it so makes it easier on her.
Umbra Mini Waste Can 5L with Swing Lid
Good trash can - not too big
MOPALL Slim Bathroom Trash Can with Lid
I like the color options this one has for bedding.
Amazon Basics Twin XL Comforter Set, Coral
My daughter doesn't like the top sheet, so this is just the bottom sheet!
Utopia Bedding Twin XL Fitted Sheet - Grey
alternative option for full length mirror - and they are shatter proof
JEOYOO Full Length Wall Mirror, 4 Pcs, 8"X8"
Mattress topper is a must with dorm beds!
MATBEBY Twin Size Cooling Mattress Pad
3 inch mattress topper - they say at least 3 inches
3" Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper Twin XL
They say dorm chairs suck (their words - not mine) - just keep in mind you have to keep the dorm chair in the room somewhere. I have also heard getting a seat cushion also works for the uncomfortable chair they provide.
Sweetcrispy Ergonomic Mid-Back Office Chair
Desk hutch for more storage - double check your college - she doesn't need one, but thought I would share just in case
Nromant Wooden Desktop Bookshelf with 6 Shelves
Tall, skinny nightstand - perfect for when you loft the dorm bed!
Furnulem 5-Drawer Tall Nightstand with LED
My daughter is going for a pink & black look in her dorm. She got this one because she loves the feel.
HAIHUA Fluffy Pink Twin Comforter Set
Put this on the door and people can write notes as they walk down the hall (or if they miss you). Fun way to get to know people!
Amazon Basics Small Magnetic Dry Erase Board 8.5x11
I like the idea of providing as much storage as I possibly can in a compact way. This is a great way to add storage in the same floor space as the dorm fridge we got.
QieerHior Adjustable Mini Fridge & Microwave Stand
Kitchen Basics
Even though she will have a meal plan, there are always basics you want to keep nearby.
I went for aesthetics with this one - so cute. I also like it has a freezer, so ice can be made!
Havato 3.2 Cu.Ft Mini Fridge with Freezer
My daughter loves Sonic ice. She got this ice tray.
WIBIMEN Mini Ice Cube Trays - 4 Pack Blue
This would have to be a graduation gift for sure, but a great ice maker!
Countertop Ice Maker, Self-Cleaning, Black
I like this ice cube maker for the mini fridge.
PHINOX 64 pcs Ice Cube Tray with Lid & Bin
This is small enough to fit in a mini fridge! She got this one for a grad present.
Brita Metro Water Filter Pitcher, 6-Cup, White
Easy way to do dishes if needed! She doesn't have a sink, except the bathroom or shared dorm kitchen.
Dixie Large Paper Plates, 10 Inch, 204 Count
Microwave safe bowls
Dixie 10 Oz Small Paper Bowls, 72 Count
No one wants to do dishes! Perfect for quick eating and don't have to do dishes.
Amazon.com: Dealusy 300 Count Extra Heavy Duty Clear Plastic Silverware, 100 Forks, 100 Spoons, 100 Knives, BPA-Free, Heat Resistant, Disposable Plastic Utensils Set, Plastic Cutlery Set, Plasticware Bulk : Health & Household
It kinda matches the mini fridge I found - couldn't resist! My daughter is in love - got this in black & the matching fridge!
Nostalgia Retro Compact Microwave Oven - Pink
You always need napkins…
500 Count 1-ply White Lunch Napkins
I like that these have the quick size on them. It helps you not to waste paper towels.
Bounty Quick Size Paper Towels, 16 Rolls
Seventh Generation wipes - great for helping keep your college student healthy with a clean room
Seventh Generation Multi Purpose Wipes 70ct x3
All natural laundry detergent - best thing about these no liquid no mess!
Earth Breeze Laundry Detergent Sheets Fresh Scent 30 Ct
Instead of toxic dryer sheets that take up more space, I am sending a dryer ball to college with my daughter. It will last her the whole year and will be healthier for her.
Molly's Suds XL Wool Dryer Balls, Set of 6
Bathroom Basics
We have a communal shower for her dorm room. These are great recommendations for things a student will need for that situation.
If she goes to a dorm with a communal shower, this is a great option to carry her things.
Fammart Mesh Shower Caddy with 7 Pockets
Shower shoes are needed and I like how these have the holes in the bottom for run off.
shevalues Women's Arch Support Shower Shoes
Another option for the shower caddy - and it has a place for her phone!
Portable Mesh Shower Caddy & Toiletry Bag
This is actually to put your bathroom caddy on so things don't get wet & moldy
Super Absorbent Dish Drying Mat - Gray S-11"x14"
Towel wrap so you don't have to worry about it falling off!
Turkish Linen Women's Waffle Spa Wrap
Need a robe for those just in case times!
NY Threads Women's Plush Fleece Bathrobe
Get bath towels and stick to the same pattern - they can be easily identified as yours
SKL Home Rhapsody Jacquard Bath Towel, Multi
Another bathroom shoes option - I like all the colors that come with this option.
Quick-Drying Shower Slippers for Women - Lightweight, ...
Clothing Basics
I know she will take her clothes with her, but there are some things I want to think about ahead of time. We are also thrifting some of the cute dresses and outfits she will need for sorority rush (I haven't tagged those here).
Comfortable tennis shoes for walking! These were recommended by a college student.
New Balance 550 Womens Shoes
Tile floors can get cold. These are cute and warm! She can easily run around the dorm in these (and she would probably wear them out…sigh).
Evshine Warm Knit House Slippers for Women
Rain jacket - enough said
Avoogue Women's Lightweight Waterproof Raincoat
Although I showed my daughter the colorful boots, she wanted basic black. These are the ones I got her.
planone Tall Waterproof Rain Boots Women
Rain boots are a need - might as well make them cute!
Western Chief Women's Tall Waterproof Rain Boot
Game day purse! Double check to see if they are required to go to games at your college.
Aveniee Clear Stadium Approved Crossbody Bag
Perfect lint roller - I’ve heard they are very much needed in dorms
Manual Pet Hair Remover, Reusable & Washable Pet Hair Removal Tool, Durable Plastic Handle Hair Remover for Home Use, Pet Grooming Supplies, Pet Products - TikTok Shop
School Basics
She has been doing online school for a couple of years, so we need to go back to the basics.
You need a good backpack. I like the stylishness of this one.
VANKEAN 17" Laptop Backpack, Light Blue
Cute backpack option! And I love the price!
15.6" Laptop Backpack for Women - USB, Anti-theft
Several students recommended an ipad for notetaking and other things.
Apple iPad 11" A16, 128GB, Wi-Fi 6, Silver
I like this ipad case, because it has space for the pencil.
ESR iPad 11th/10th Gen Case, Black, Stand
Stylus pen that is compatible - and affordable!
Stylus Pen for iPad 9th&10th Gen - White
This was an interesting suggestion, since most people use their phones now. I guess you don't have to worry about the battery!
Amazon Basics Small Digital Alarm Clock
A wall calendar was suggested - I like the cork board on this one too.
17"x13" Magnetic Dry Erase Calendar Board
Extension cords are a must! This is 6 foot. I like all the options (and affordability) of this one.
6 Ft Surge Protector Power Strip - 8 Outlets
10 foot extension cord option - like the different plugs
10ft Extension Cord Power Strip 8 AC Outlets
Desk caddy - like that you can put tv/monitor on top - just check to see if it fits on your desk (if it already has shelving)
OPNICE 2-Tier Monitor Stand & Desk Organizer
Umbrellas are a must have and this one fits in your backpack!
NPCQUN Windproof Compact Travel Umbrella
I like this personal safety alarm! I like it can hang on her backpack too!
She's Birdie Personal Safety Alarm - Aqua
Scissors are the random things you forget you need for just about everything
LIVINGO 8" Titanium Non-Stick Scissors 2 Pack
Can anyone live without sticky notes? Just askin!
Sticky Notes 3x3 Inch, 8 Pack, Multicolor
My daughter prefers mechanical pencils. If you get them, you don't have to get a pencil sharpener…
BIC Xtra-Smooth Pastel 0.7mm Mechanical Pencils, 40-Count
This is the backpack my daughter chose. It is a good backpack - super sturdy!
LIGHT FLIGHT Laptop Backpack for Women Travel
If you don't rent a laptop from the university, this is a good, affordable option.
HP Stream 14" HD Laptop, Intel N4120, 16GB RAM, 288GB Storage, Win 11 S
A little more expensive option - has the side number pad (good for those math majors) and more RAM/storage
HP 15.6" Touchscreen Laptop, 32GB RAM, 1.5TB Storage, Intel i3, Win 11 Pro, Office
My daughter says she likes to take physical copies of notes, so I bought her these. They are super cheap right before school goes back.
Five Star 1 Subject 100pg Wide Ruled Spiral Notebook (Colors May Vary): Perforated, Bleed-Resistant, 3 Hole Punched
Magnetic wallet is perfect for running around campus, especially because you always need your student ID!
PROfezzion 2 In 1 RFID Blocking Magnetic Card Holder, Durable Detachable Hard Smartphone Wallet For iPhone 15 14 13 12 Series & MagSafe Cellphone Case Cover (Not For 13/12 Mini), Electronics Accessories - TikTok Shop
Health & Beauty Basics
She seems to like to get sick - ha. So, here are some things that were recommended as beneficial.
I have seen a dehumidifier suggested by a lot of people. Dorms are pretty musty! This is the one I got my daughter, because she is living in an older dorm.
BREEZOME 60 OZ Quiet Dehumidifier with Timer
I would have loved these in college with noisy roommates!
Bluetooth Sleep Mask Headphones for Side Sleepers
Crappy dorm room lights means you need a lighted mirror
FENCHILIN Lighted Makeup Vanity Mirror
I am giving us two options for mirrors, because this one is more compact.
HUONUL Trifold Makeup Mirror with Lights
My daughter sleeps with her fan on, so this is a good alternative for her to have in the dorm.
Honeywell HT-904 TurboForce Table Fan, White
My daughter definitely has the makeup! Great basic organizer!
STORi Chloe Stackable Clear Makeup Organizer
She will definitely need a first aid kit.
Be Smart Get Prepared 110 pc First Aid Kit
She wears lots of jewelry - this may be a good option!
ProCase 4-Tier Jewelry Organizer Stand - White
Tissues are a must!
Puffs Plus Lotion Facial Tissue, 18 Cubes
This is good for not just the smell of the dorm, but for healthy essential oils.
InnoGear 5-in-1 Essential Oil Diffuser
A thermometer - wouldn't have thought of that!
Boncare 10 Sec Oral Thermometer - Light Blue
Several people said calamine lotion - wouldn't have thought of that one!
Caladryl Calamine Lotion, 6 Fl Oz
Melatonin for help sleeping - just in case!
Amazon Basics Melatonin 5mg, 120 Gummies
College causes headaches!
NUVICARE Extra Strength Acetaminophen 500mg
Everyone needs bandaids!
Care Science Fabric Adhesive Bandages, 200 ct
Storage Basics
Storage is a premium in a dorm. Here are some ideas I curated from others.
Tons of hooks were suggested!
Heavy Duty Adhesive Hooks 12 Pack Waterproof
I don't know if over the door hooks will work or not, but putting on my list just in case.
Mars-Rock Over Door Hooks 4Pcs Heavy Duty
I like this variety pack for hooks!
Command Variety Pack: Hooks & Strips Kit
Storage caddies are a must. I like this one because it can hook on the bed frame. She got the pink one to go with her pink/black theme.
Loghot Bedside Caddy Organizer - Light Pink
Shoe storage caddy - like it! She got this one in black to keep with her theme.
Whitmor 8-Section Hanging Shoe Shelves - Grey
There is all sorts of randomness she will need to organize. I like this one. She got hers in black to keep with the theme.
Sywhitta 4-Tier Rolling Utility Cart, Black
I like this hanging storage because it would be great for sweaters, jeans, tshirts, etc. She got hers in black to keep her theme going.
MAX Houser 6 Tier Hanging Closet Organizer
Storage is a necessity - it can look cute too. These can fit under the bed if you loft the bed.
4 Tier Stackable Plastic Storage Bins
I like that these are clear so she can see what is in them.
WYT Clear Storage Latch Bins, 6-Pack, 5L
I like these for underbed storage, plus she can label them to know what is in them.
Large Under Bed Storage Containers - 2 Pack
Storage ottoman, visitor's stool, table top, step stool - used for lots of stuff! We got this one in pink!
Mxfurhawa Round Ottoman with Storage, Cream
I like these hangers for dorm rooms, because they allow for the extra space.
AMKUFO 6 Pack Closet Organizers & Storage
Cute floating shelf for just those things you need! I haven't bought this yet, but thinking about it once she moves in and sees she needs it.
Floating Bedside Shelves Wall Organizer
I must be obsessed with hanging options! I like these for pants!
3 Pack Velvet Pants Hangers for Closet
Someone said to get one with as many hooks as possible - good for bulky sweatshirts, etc.
Over The Door Hooks Towel Rack Hanger (1Pack)
Great for hanging on end of bed for purses, backpacks, etc.
WHITECLOUDZ 30-Pack Black S Hooks for Hanging
Velvet hangers so your clothes don't fall off - I have also heard rubber hangers work too - we got the velvet ones.
Amazon Basics Velvet Non-Slip Suit Hangers
Smaller storage bins for the randomness that accumulates - medicine, etc.
Citylife 6 Pack Small Storage Bins with Lids
Cleaning Basics
You need to keep healthy in college, so keeping your room clean is a must!
There is not enough room for a full on vaccuum, so this is a great alternative
BLACK+DECKER QuickClean Cordless Vacuum
We spent a little extra on this, but I think it is worth it. Gets up dirt and liquids. It also stores really small.
Helio Air Broom 3-Piece Kit Wet & Dry
All natural option for cleaning dorm rooms.
Method All-Purpose Cleaner Spray, Lime + Sea Salt, 28 oz
I heard a laundry bag, not basket, was the best because it is easier to carry. I like the outside bag for detergent and all.
Laundry Backpack with Shoulder Straps - Black
There are several scents for these. They are a great, healthier alternative for cleaning supplies (and don't require a lot of space for storage).
Seventh Generation Garden Mint Multi-Surface Cleaning Wipes - 70ct