When people talk about college dorm essentials, the conversation usually stops at twin sheets, mini fridges, clothes, etc… but real dorm life demands much more than what shows up on the typical checklist. It’s the small, overlooked items that end up making the biggest difference once you’re actually living in a shared, cramped space. This article dives into the college dorm must haves that nobody talks about, but everyone wishes they had brought. 

Many colleges are different, and may run differently. So, some of these may vary depending on the college and the students’ needs. 

My Top 3:

1. Laundry bag back pack & rolling laundry basket 
   1. A laundry bag backpack or a rolling laundry basket is one of those college essentials you don’t realize you need until laundry day hits. Former Dee-Mack student, Rachel Paddock, highly recommends this. Rachel says that it makes carrying clothes easier, saves your back and arms, and turns an annoying chore into something more manageable. 
2. Wagon & moving bags
   1. A wagon and large moving bags are college essentials most students don’t think about until it’s time to go home for a weekend or move out for breaks. They make hauling clothes and belongings to your car much simpler and far less stressful. 
3. Drying rack for laundry
   1. A drying rack is a surprisingly helpful college essential, especially since dorm dryers aren’t always very effective. Instead of wasting money re-drying clothes or risking damage, air-drying saves money and helps keep your clothes in better shape. 

Some others to consider…

Organization & Storage 

• Multi clip hangers 

Linens & Laundry Supplies 

• Laundry detergent, stain remover, and wool drying balls 
• Lint rollers 
• Delicate Dryer bags – Rachel claims that “it can help you not lose things to the dryer or drop clean clothes on the floor while moving things to the dryer.”

Desk Supplies

• Tape 
• Scissors 
• Envelopes 

Electronics

• Tower Extension cords – with flat plugs, there are only so many outlets
• 10 ft charger
• Projector – A projector is Rachel’s “bestfriend!” 

Hygiene & Cleaning 

• First aid kit – bandaid, antibiotics, aspirin, & pain reliever
• Shower shoes 
• Skinny vacuum
• Shower head filter – college water isn’t always the best…
• Cleaning supplies – Cleaning rags, paper towels, all purpose cleaner, etc…
• Water bottle cleaner 
• Air purifier 
• Swiffer
• Robe
• Room spray

Misc.

• Rain/winter boots 
• Garbage can
• Umbrella 
• Small silverware set 
• Clip on fans – attach it to your bed, easy way to cool off
• Mini Toolkit – including screw driver, hammer, etc…
• Full body mirror 
• Headboards
• Door rug – shoes get dirty, keep your dorm clean!