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Essential Items for College Freshmen: A 2025 Dorm Room Guide from an Interior Design Student
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items As an interior design student, I know that turning a sterile, cinder-block dorm room into a cozy sanctuary can feel impossible. But I promise it's not! This is my personal list of budget friendly essentials that will make your small space feel like h...
Sections
4
Bedding
Lighting
Storage
Health
Bedding
Your bed is the biggest piece of furniture, so making it look and feel amazing is the #1 priority.
I love these because they’re not only affordable, but come in so many beautiful patterns, extremely soft, and most importantly durable.
Twin/Twin XL Microfiber Sheet Set Pewter Aqua Ditsy Floral - Room Essentials™: Polyester, Botanical Pattern, 170 Thread Count
The main reason I love this comforter is because its washable!! Which for me was a must have my freshman year.
Twin/Twin XL All Season Comforter Insert White - Room Essentials™: Hypoallergenic, Percale Weave, OEKO-TEX Certified
You can never have too many blankets. They always gave me with a sense of comfort during my college days, especially when I was feeling lonely or missing home.
Plush Throw Blanket Ivory - Room Essentials™: Midweight, Recycled Polyester, Machine Washable, 50x60"
Lighting
This is the most important step for setting the mood. We want warm, layered light.
This light is perfect for late-night studying without disturbing roommates.
Globe Electric 15" West Desk Lamp with Dimmer Rotary Switch (Includes LED Light Bulb) Matte Brass : LED Pivot Head, Bankers Style
This small clip on light quickly became essential for reading or doing schoolwork in bed without disturbing my roommate!
Clip Table Lamp White (Includes LED Light Bulb) - Room Essentials™
Dealing with a tangle of cords is one of my biggest pet peeves, so this portable lamp was worth every penny!!
Portable Cordless Table Lamp with Rechargeable Battery (Includes LED Light Bulb) White - Room Essentials™
Storage
This is how you make the space truly YOURS.
I love multifunctional storage boxes, and especially for small spaces like dorms!
HomePop Dinah 24" Storage Ottoman Marigold Pinstripe
Another great multi-functional storage unit! Doubles as both a table and storage space.
HomePop 30" Dinah Storage Ottoman Light Gray: Upholstered Bench, Round Design, Easy to Maintain
As someone with Adhd, baskets were a lifesaver in college for when I need to quickly de-clutter or have a place to throw something that's not the floor 😅
13" Decorative Coiled Rope Basket Cream - Brightroom™: Storage & Organization, Oval, Handles, 13 Inch Cube System Compatible
Health
These are some essentials I believe every incoming freshman should have in their door to avoid stress and stay feeling your best.
I understand that this might be a bit pricey for dorm room shopping, but if I could recommend one essential item, it would be this. When I moved away for college, I realized just how many things I was sensitive to and allergic to, particularly mold a...
Levoit Core 300 Air Purifier White: 3 Settings, 100-300 sq. ft. Coverage, ETL & CARB Certified, Captures Allergens, 45W Electric
If you want to prevent your dorm from smelling like a gym locker room and prevent any unwanted odors, then you need this. You can thank me later.
Fresh Wave Odor Removing Pack and Reusable Pod Original Scent
Safety should always be the top priority, and I found this really helps provide peace of mind. It can even be used outside of the dorm. Honestly, I believe this is a must have for everyone!
Sabre Portable Door Lock: Keyless Temporary Security for Most Door Types, Ideal for Travel & Home, No Assembly Required