I may have only lived in dorms for a year, But this list is the list I wish I had, I had so many extra things that I just didn't need and this truly brings you back to the basics
Sections
5
This is every basic need for dorm life!!
Cleaning
Bedding needs
Bathroom needs
"Kitchen" stuff
This is every basic need for dorm life!!
These are things that don't necessarily have a category but you will need them
This for your snacks that you'll inevitably be getting.
Mini Fridge
I know the fuzzy shaggy rugs are tempting but DO NOT get it. They suck to keep clean
All Area Rugs & Runners
Having a small hook to put keys or your towel to dry on
Command™ General Purpose Variety Kit | 3M United States
Just in case, this is good to hang up papers or posters
Wall Safe Tape
Extra seating in the dorm AND extra storage
Otoman
Make sure the multi strip you get follows your dorm rules and you'll be golden. These help to charge all your necessities at once
Multi Plug Outlet Extender Power Strip
Your shoes will be muddy and wet and gross, don't get that on your floor
Door Mats, Outdoor Mats & Welcome Mats
This doesn't have to be anything fancy, both guys and gals need a mirror to check outfits and other self hygiene things
Mainstays Over-the-Door Rectangular Mirror, Black, 14" x 50" - Walmart.com
I have this exact desk lamp and it's so helpful when you need to do homework and your roommate wants to sleep
Task Table Lamp (Includes LED Light Bulb) Black - Room Essentials™
Mac n cheese cups, Ramen, popcorn, frozen dinners all require a microwave. This thing is super convenient
Mini Microwave Oven For Dorm
Cleaning
Adulting sucks, so make it easier with having to use as little amount of cleaning products as possible!
Even if you don't have windows you can use this to clean your electronics screens!
Windex ® Original Glass Cleaner
I've had mine for YEARS and it's still going strong. If you don't feel like sweeping you can use this too!
BISSELL 3-in-1, Corded, Stick Vacuum, Carpet, Area Rugs, Hardfloor, Upholstery, Removable Hand Vac, Lightweight, Easy Empty, 2030, Blue & Gray
Literally use these to wipe down any hard surface BEFORE you put any of your stuff away. Desk, dresser, shelves, bed frame.
Spray your mattress with this before putting everything else on. Trust me you'll feel better about sleeping on something disinfected
Fresh Scent Disinfectant Spray - 19oz - up&up™
Just use these to dust or if you accidentally spill something.
The Laundry Place
These are sooo handy, they don't take up lots of space and they still clean clothes fabulously
The Best Laundry Detergent Sheets 2025
Save the environment and also dryer sheets aren't good for your clothes
Handy Laundry Wool Dryer Balls - Natural Softener
Guys you need a water bottle and something to clean it
Bottle Brushes
A small bottle will last you
Dawn dish soap
To put all your trash and snack wrappers. My dorm supplied recycling bins but trash was up to us
Small Bathroom Trash Can
For the trash can you'll have
Small Bathroom Trash Bags
Bedding needs
Your bed is the most important part of your dorm. If you get sucky sleep you won't do well in class
Put this on top of your memory foam mattress topper, it helps keep things together
Twin XL Mattress Protectors All Products
Obviously get one that will match your stuff, but make sure to have at least 1 extra fitted sheet because sometimes the washer and dryer are unavailable
Bedsure Twin XL 5-Piece Navy Comforter Set
This is important, get TWO pillows and make sure they're comfy
Twin Size Pillows For Sleeping
Throw blankets for bed and floor....floor naps hit different sometimes
Blankets and Throws | Soft, Cozy Blankets
If you want to have the most restful sleep you need a topper. They make cooling ones that are super helpful too
Twin Xl Mattress Topper
Bathroom needs
Stay clean guys. No one wants a smelly roommate or lab partner
I have this exact shower caddy and I LOVE it. It doesn't fall apart like the other mesh ones and can be hung up instead of sat on the floor 🤢
Lifewit Mesh Shower Caddy Bag Portable Tote
Don't be ashy guys
eos Body Lotion | Deeply Moisturizing, Lightweight Hydration
Comb while conditioning. Trust me it's a life changer and you don't shed as much
Wide Tooth Styling Comb - up&up™
Trust me you only need 2 towels maybe 3 MAX
Utopia Towels Jumbo Bath Sheet 2 Piece 600 GSM
I used croc slides/sandals for shower shoes and they worked so much better than the cheap flip flops and didn't give me blisters
Women's Sandals: Comfortable, Cute, & Casual
Guys germs travel just use it even if it's slightly ugly
Toothbrush Cover
"Kitchen" stuff
Get 2 of these, you legit need these at the most random times
