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It’s almost the midpoint of September which means most twenty-somethings are headed back to school. Making your dorm room a space where you feel safe, comfy and productive is essential for a good semester. These are the top ten products that I recommend to transform a dorm into your room.
- Lap Desk
A lap desk is a great accessory for those of us who like to do homework comfortably, in bed. Many come with a charging port for your laptop or phone, as well as a cup holder for your favorite drink. A lap desk can also work on the go, say you need to do some work on the train, you can bring your desk along with you.
- Mini fridge
A mini fridge is a college dorm staple. It’s great to store all your favorite snacks and beverages, and it’s a backup for when you don’t feel like lugging yourself to the dining hall. I personally use my mini fridge as a cold brew storage unit (to say my caffeine addiction is out of hand would be an understatement).
- Roller cart
A roller cart is a great way to get more storage out of an already small room. They can be used for any purpose you choose. Don’t know where to put your toiletries Make a self care cart. Have too many succulents for your window sill? Make a plant cart! I use mine as a book cart for my ever-growing TBR pile.
- Ambient lighting
Historically the lighting in dorm rooms is not the best. It’s often a gross yellow color and provides light everywhere except your desk. That’s why I recommend any ambient lighting of your choosing. If your school allows LED strips there a great if you want to change up the color scheme in your room and string lights always create cozy vibes. I tend to go for cute little lamps with soft white lights.
- Area rugs
I also highly recommend an area rug. While dorm rooms can vary in size, you’ll probably be safe with a 5×8 rug. Adding a rug will make your dorm more homey and will add a pop of color against those white walls.
- Posters
Speaking of walls, posters are a great décor item. You can literally buy any type of poster that fits your aesthetic, theme, or your interests. They’re easy to set up and take down, and having your room decorated will make you feel good when you’re there, like it really is your space.
- Comfy pillows
One of the newer items I added to my room this year were big fluffy pillows for my bed. Not only are they super soft, but they also make your bed look nice and put together.
- Mirrors
Mirrors are great for practical and décor purposes. You can get a full-length mirror to check out your outfit before class, but you can also get small decorative mirrors. I have three diamond shaped mirrors that hang from the wall and they’ve been my favorite décor piece I bought for school.
- Keurig or Electric Kettle
Having a Keurig is an easy way to get your coffee fix right in your room. I also love having an electric kettle since it’s a really easy way to make tea, and so many kettles come in cute colors to match with your room.
- Something from Home
Bringing something that means a lot to you from home can help in those first few weeks when that inevitable home sickness sets in, particularly if you’re a freshman. It can be that special to you. A sports trophy from a hard won game, a picture of you and your friends from home, or even a snow globe that you love. I brought a well-worn copy of my favorite book, Emma by Jane Austen.
All these items have one goal, to make your dorm room feel like an inviting and safe space. Away from stressful classes or crazy fun nights with your friends, your room should be a place to rest, recharge, and relax.