Stepping into your college dorm for the first time, freshman year is exciting, until students realize how much they actually need to make that tiny space feel more like home. In addition to feeling at home, there are always essentials that most new students forget. From bedding to cleaning supplies to storage and organization, there is always something that is forgotten. The best way to get started on purchasing dorm supplies, according to Mary Harrington from Grown & Flown, is to gather as much information from your college’s website as possible. The information about dorms is typically under the “Residence Life” tab. The next thing students should do is make a list of the absolute essentials. If the list is empty right now, here are some items that every freshman in college might need, as well as some suggested items that might not be necessary, but are definitely a want for the dorm room.
Bedding
Starting with bedding. The number one suggested item for the college dorm bed is a mattress topper. Grown & Flown suggested the ViscoSoft Select High-density Mattress Topper, which is available on Amazon and many other stores. It is recommended to get a couple of sets of sheets, so there is a backup when one needs to be washed, as well as a comforter. Students should check their college’s website, but keep in mind that most dorm mattresses are twin XL. It is also smart to get in touch with your roommate if a decorated dorm is something both of you are interested in trying. Decorations certainly are not necessary, but they will definitely elevate the room and make it feel more like a home. Other extras to add decoration to your bed include items like throw blankets and decorative pillows.
Cleaning and Bathroom Supplies
Next are cleaning and bathroom supplies. This category is one of the more forgotten categories in terms of day-to-day, useful items. One of the most recommended items needed, according to Trusens, is disinfectant wipes. These can be used for virtually any mess and are easy to throw away when done. Other important items include trash bags, a small vacuum, paper towels, and a spray mop is recommended as well. There is some controversy about whether a mesh shower caddy or a plastic one is better. After research, mesh seems to get better reviews because it is easier to clean, thus avoiding mold and mildew buildup. Towels, shower shoes, and a shower head filter, if able to, but not necessary.
Organization
Organization is very important for such a small place, and there are many ways to make the best out of it. First of all, if possible, raise the bed to create space underneath. Under the bed is a great location to keep a fridge, dresser, and storage containers. Another option for more room is to get a storage ottoman. These are perfect because it adds a place to sit and a place to put anything. Another storage hack is a tiered utility cart. These are useful to hold anything students may want such as snacks, cups, and plates, or a coffee maker, better yet, it can hold all of these at once! These carts will not take up too much space and are also super handy when finding places for the random items.
Frequently Forgotten Items
Throughout the beginning of freshman year of college, there often tends to be a handful of items students forget to bring with them. According to Resident Assistant Angie Arias from Dorm Therapy, one of the top items most students do not think about is a first aid kit. These can be helpful for easy relief from minor injuries and prevent students from having to go buy a box of Band-Aids when they already have some handy in the room. Other essentials include surge protectors, a portable fan, Command strips, air fresheners, or a Brita Water filter. Purchasing a Brita is smart because it is much easier to fill than buying a pack of water every week, and who wants to drink straight sink water anyways?
In the end, preparing for college dorm life comes down to balancing comfort, organization, and planning. It is easy to get caught up in decorating, which is not a bad idea, but focusing on the essentials should come first. Take the time to research dorms at your college and talk with your roommate. By starting early (now), you are sure to be prepared for all your needs and hopefully add some personality to your dorm room as well. Good luck to all upcoming freshmen; start the year off right by creating a space that feels like home.
