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dorm essentials

college move in dorm room essentials

The Essential College Dorm Room Checklist for 2025

Moving into a dorm for the first time is an exciting milestone, but it requires careful planning to ensure you have everything you need. To help you prepare, here’s a comprehensive checklist of essentials, along with links to the top-rated items in each category on Amazon:

Congratulations, you're a dorm dweller

Well, you did it. You’re a dorm dweller.

Congratulations, you’ve officially survived the first month of college! You’ve navigated the chaos of move-in day, bonded with your roommate (or avoided them like the plague), unpacked your life into a room the size of a walk-in closet, and realized that textbooks cost roughly the same as your firstborn child. Now, the welcome events are over, classes are in full swing, and campus no longer feels like a confusing labyrinth.

Let's do this!

Your Ultimate Move-In Day Guide for Summer 2024

Well, folks, the moment you’ve been waiting for is finally here. Your move-in day is just around the corner, and it’s time to get serious. Whether you’re a college freshman ready to launch into your new life of independence or a parent trying to hold it together as you help pack up your kid’s life into the back of the car, we’re here to help you through this transition.

Dorm Room Bathroom

Pooping with strangers: a survival guide.

So, you’ve made it to college, huh? Congrats! Now, let’s talk about the real challenge ahead of you—sharing a single bathroom with three other people. Yes, you heard that right. Four people. One bathroom. Welcome to dorm life, where personal space is a luxury, and privacy is as rare as a quiet night in the study hall.

Mini Fridge for Dorm Room

The One Item Everyone Needs for their Dorm Room

Alright, incoming college freshmen, gather around! We need to have a serious chat about the single most important item you will need for your dorm room. No, it’s not your laptop or even that plush mattress topper your mom insists you need. It’s the holy grail of college essentials: the mini-fridge. Trust me, this magical appliance will be your best friend at 2 AM when you’re hungry and everything else is closed.

Alone in dorm room

I’m on my own. Now what?

So, you’ve done it. You’ve moved into your dorm room, arranged all your belongings, and kissed your parents goodbye as they reluctantly drove away, wiping away their tears (or maybe you were the one crying). Now, the world—or at least this small, shared space—is yours. What’s next? Let’s dive into the top things you should do once you’re officially on your own and ready to conquer dorm life.

College move in

Moving Into a Dorm Room for the First Time: Your Ultimate Survival Guide

Alright, future dorm dwellers, it’s time to tackle the ultimate challenge: moving into your dorm room. Whether you’re heading to Arizona State’s sun-soaked campus, Michigan State’s sprawling grounds, Alabama’s football frenzy, or Boston College’s historic charm, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into some packing and moving strategies that will make this experience less stressful and maybe even a little fun. Yes, fun. I said it.

Summer is over

August 2024 Dorm Essentials

August has rolled in, and that means it’s crunch time for all you college-bound folks. If you’re headed to your new dorm room, it’s time to get your shopping game on point. Don’t worry, we’ve done the legwork for you and compiled the top 10 dorm room deals currently on Amazon. Grab these essentials and make your dorm life as comfortable and efficient as possible!

Moving into a dorm

Moving Into a Dorm Room for the First Time

So, you’re about to move into your dorm room for the first time? Congratulations! This is a huge milestone. But let’s be real: it can be as daunting as it is exciting. Fear not! Here’s your ultimate guide to making the move smooth, stress-free, and maybe even a bit fun. We’ll cover what you should consider, proper etiquette, and what to move in first and last. Let’s dive in!

Dorm Room Essentials

Dorm Room Essentials You Need to Buy Now

Hey there, future dorm-dwellers! So you’ve gotten your acceptance letter, picked your classes, and maybe even stalked your new roommate on social media. But wait! There’s one major task left on your college prep to-do list: decking out your dorm room. Trust me, this is not something you want to leave until the last minute. Here’s a rundown of the absolutely essential items you need to snag ASAP for your dorm room, complete with links, ratings, and reviews from Amazon.

Mini Fridge for Dorm Room

Chill Out: Why Mini-Refrigerators Are Dorm Room Essentials

Alright, future college students, let’s get real about one thing that will save your sanity in the dorms: mini-refrigerators. These compact cooling wonders are more than just a place to stash your sodas—they’re essential for surviving college life. Let’s dive into why a mini-fridge is a must-have for your dorm room and check out some of the best deals on Amazon now that Prime Days are over. Spoiler alert: there are some great bargains you won’t want to miss!

Prime Day Dorm Room Deals

It’s Prime Day: Here Are All the Dorm Room Deals You Need to Know About

Hey there, future dorm-dwellers! It’s that magical time of year again—Prime Day! The perfect opportunity to snag some awesome deals on everything you need (and a few things you don’t) for your upcoming college adventure. Whether you’re a first-time freshman or a seasoned upperclassman, we’ve got the best dorm room deals lined up for you. Let’s dive in and make your dorm room the envy of the entire campus.

Girls Dorm Room

So You Got Your Dorm Assignment: Now What?

Congratulations! You’ve finally received your dorm assignment for this fall. The future is bright, the possibilities are endless, and you’re probably feeling a mix of excitement and sheer panic. Don’t worry—we’ve got your back. Here’s your ultimate guide on what to do after finding out which dorm you’ll be living in. Prepare for some laughs, some tips, and plenty of helpful links to make your transition smooth and enjoyable.

Power strip for dorm room

Deal of the Day for July 8th: Up to 59% Off this 12 Outlet Surge Protector Power Strip!

Hey there, future dorm dwellers and savvy shoppers! It’s time for the Dorm Room Deal of the Day, and trust me, you don’t want to miss this one. Whether you’re a freshman stepping into the chaotic world of dorm living or a seasoned pro looking to upgrade your space, today’s deal is a game-changer. Say hello to the Extension Cord – 12 Outlet Surge Protector Power Strip!

Dorm room deals

June Deals Roundup

Hey there, future dorm dwellers and supportive parents! As the summer days roll by and the start of college looms closer, we at Dorm-Dwellers.com have been dishing out some killer deals to get you prepped and pumped for dorm life. From epic LED lights to life-saving shower caddies, we’ve got you covered. So, sit back, grab a snack, and let’s dive into a hilarious and handy recap of all the amazing deals we’ve shared over the past month.

Shoe rack for dorm room

Deal of the Day for July 5th: 28% Off Shoe Rack!

Alright, college-bound champs, and the supportive parents cheering them on! Gather ’round, because today we’re diving into a dorm room essential that you didn’t know you needed until now: the ROJASOP Shoe Rack with Covers. Yes, you read that right. It’s a shoe rack, but not just any shoe rack. This bad boy is a stackable 10-tier, tall shoe shelf storage that can hold 50-55 pairs of shoes and boots. It’s the Swiss Army knife of dorm room organization.

Online support groups for college

The Best Online Communities for Incoming College Students and Their Parents

Hey there, future college students and the amazing parents supporting them! With the start of college right around the corner, you’re probably feeling a mix of excitement, nervousness, and maybe even a little bit of overwhelm. The good news is you’re not alone! There are tons of online communities where you can connect with others who are going through the same thing, get advice, share tips, and find support. From Facebook groups to Reddit threads, these communities are gold mines of information and camaraderie.

July before college

The Ultimate July Guide for Incoming Freshmen and Their Parents: Get Ready for College Like a Pro!

Hey there, future college freshmen and the awesome parents supporting them! July 1st has rolled around, and you know what that means—it’s crunch time for preparing for the upcoming school year. Whether you’re the student who’s been counting down the days until you’re finally on campus or the parent wondering how to fit an entire bedroom into a car, this guide is for you.

Wedge pillow for dorm room

The Headboard Bolster Pillow – Your New Best Friend in Bed!

Hey there, future dorm-dwellers! Gather ’round because today, we’ve got a game-changer for your dorm room setup. Forget those clunky traditional headboards—today’s essential item is the Dorm Headboard Bolster Pillow. It’s versatile, comfy, and perfect for all your bed-based activities. Let’s dive into why this bolster pillow is about to become your new best friend in college.

Plates for dorm room

Deal of the Day for June 27th: 20% Off Plasticware!

Hello, future dorm-dwellers! Today, we’re talking about something that might not seem sexy but is absolutely essential: plasticware. Specifically, we’re shining the spotlight on the Plastic Plates and Bowls Set that’s taking Amazon by storm. If you’re heading to college this fall, this deal is an absolute must-have for your dorm room. Let’s dive into why these plates and bowls are going to be your new best friends—and why you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them.

Sheets for dorm room

Deal of the Day for June 26th: We have the Sheets (52% Off)

Hey there, future dorm-dwellers and connoisseurs of comfort! Today, we’re diving into the world of sheets—yes, sheets! Don’t roll your eyes just yet. This isn’t your grandma’s threadbare, itchy disaster. We’re talking about the Cadillac of dorm bedding, the Twin XL Size 3 Piece Sheet Set, currently a whopping 52% off on Amazon. That’s right, you can snag these luxurious sheets for half the price and still have money left over for late-night pizza. Let’s break down why this is the deal you didn’t know you desperately needed.

Shower Caddy for Dorm

Deal of the Day: $8 OFF Portable Shower Caddy Tote Bag

Hello, soon-to-be college scholars and dorm room rookies! Buckle up because today, we’re diving into the world of communal living, and more specifically, the dreaded communal bathrooms. We all know the struggle of juggling shampoo bottles, body wash, razors, and that awkward loofah while trying to maintain some semblance of dignity on your way to the showers. Well, fret no more because the Bukere Portable Shower Caddy Tote Bag is here to save the day. And guess what? There’s an $8 Off Coupon waiting for you on Amazon! Let’s get into why this shower caddy is about to become your new best friend.

Room with a Room

Deal of the Day for June 20th: “A Room within a Room”

How fun is this, future dorm dwellers and champions of the shared space struggle? Today’s spotlight is on an absolute game-changer for anyone about to embark on the wild ride that is college dorm life. Presenting the MioCloth Dormitory Room Lightproof Curtain – the ultimate solution for privacy, light control, and personal space in the chaotic, communal world of dorm living. And guess what? It’s your lucky day because this gem is available on Amazon at a jaw-dropping price. Let’s dive into why this curtain is the must-have item for your dorm room setup.

LED Lights for Dorm Room

Deal of the Day for June 19th: 100ft LED Strip Lights – 40% Off!

Hey there, soon-to-be college freshmen, sophomores, and anyone lucky enough to score a dorm room this semester! Ready to transform your blank, bland dorm room into a psychedelic wonderland? Buckle up, because today’s Dorm Room Deal of the Day is going to light up your life—literally. Say hello to the Keepsmile 100ft LED Strip Lights, and guess what? They’re a dazzling 40% off on Amazon right now!

Lap desk for dorm room

Deal of the Day: 50% Off Portable Lap Laptop Desk

Hey there, future dorm-dwellers and campus conquerors! Ready to dive headfirst into the wild, wacky world of college life? Buckle up, because today, I’ve got something that’s going to change your dorm room game forever. Introducing the HUANUO Portable Lap Laptop Desk with Pillow Cushion, currently rocking a whopping 50% off on Amazon! If you’re gearing up for the ultimate college experience, this deal is hotter than a freshman at their first frat party.

How much cash does a college student need?

How Much Cash Does a New College Student Need?

Hello, future college students and wallet warriors! If you’re heading off to college for the first time, you’re probably wondering about all the essentials you need to pack. Amidst the chaos of finding the perfect duvet cover and deciding how many ramen noodle packets you can fit into your suitcase, there’s one question that often gets overlooked: How much cash should you take with you to campus?

Mattress Pad for Dorm Room

Deal of the Day: 22% Off Twin XL Mattress Pad

Hello, future dorm dwellers and savvy shoppers! Today’s post is all about comfort and making your dorm room feel like a cozy retreat. If you’re prepping for college or just looking to upgrade your dorm bed, you’re in luck. Our Dorm Room Deal of the Day is a fantastic 22% off the Bedsure Twin XL Mattress Pad. Get ready to learn why this is the ultimate addition to your dorm room and why you should grab this deal while it lasts.

String lights for dorm room

Deal of the Day for June 12th: 60% Off LED String Lights with Clips!

Hey there, dorm dwellers and décor enthusiasts! Today’s post is about adding a touch of magic to your living space. If your dorm room is looking a little drab and in need of a sprinkle of whimsy, we’ve got just the thing for you. Get ready to light up your life (and your photos) with our Dorm Room Deal of the Day: 60% off the Photo Clip 17Ft – 50 LED Fairy String Lights with 50 Clear Clips for Hanging Pictures! Let’s dive into why this product is a must-have for your dorm room makeover.

Bedding for Dorm Room

Deal of the Day for June 11th: 15% Off Bed-in-A-Bag 5 Piece Comforter & Sheet Set

Hey there future college superstar! So, you’ve graduated from high school, and now you’re gearing up for the exciting adventure that is college life. You’ve got the essentials like your laptop, textbooks, and shower caddy (because dorm showers are a special kind of communal experience). But there’s one more crucial item you need: a comfy, stylish bed set. Lucky for you, today’s dorm room deal of the day is the Bare Home Bed-in-A-Bag 5 Piece Comforter & Sheet Set – Twin XL – Goose Down Alternative – Ultra-Soft 1800 Premium Bedding Set (Twin XL, Grey/Light Grey).

Dorm Room Rug

Deal of the Day for June 10th: 24%+ Off Dorm Room Rug

Don’t you love it when you walk into a room and it just screams “home”? Well, dorm rooms aren’t exactly known for that cozy, homey vibe. They tend to be more on the side of “sterile box with zero personality.” But fear not, future college students, because today’s dorm room deal of the day is here to save the day and your floors: the Ophanie 3×5 Rug, now on Amazon at a glorious 24% off with an additional $10 coupon. Yep, you read that right! Let’s dive into why this rug is an absolute dorm room essential and how it can transform your space from “meh” to “heck yeah!”

Clock for Dorm Room

Deal of the Day for June 7th: 48% Off Mirror Alarm Clock

Hey there, future dorm dwellers and current procrastinators! Today’s dorm room deal is something that might just save your GPA and your sanity. We’re talking about the WulaWindy Digital Alarm Clock, a sleek, modern, and incredibly functional gadget that every college student needs. You might think, “An alarm clock? Really?” But trust me, this isn’t just any alarm clock. This is the alarm clock. And guess what? It’s currently 48% off on Amazon! Time to wake up and grab this deal!

Bedside Caddy for College Dorm

Deal of the Day for June 6th: 60% Off Bedside Storage Caddy!

Hey there, future dorm dwellers! Today, we’ve got an absolute game-changer for your soon-to-be chaotic dorm life. Let’s talk about the Bedside Storage Caddy/Bedside Hanging Storage Bag for Headboards, Bunk Beds, Dorm Rooms, and beyond. This nifty little invention is the unsung hero of dorm room organization, and it’s here to save your sanity one pocket at a time, PLUS, It’s currently 60% OFF!

Dorm Room Plastic Plates and Bowls

Deal of the Day for June 5th – 20% Off Plastic Plates and Bowls!

Welcome back, savvy dorm shoppers! Today’s dorm room deal of the day is one you won’t want to miss. Let’s face it, college life can be chaotic, and sometimes, the little things can make a big difference. That’s why we’re excited to introduce the Plastic Plates and Bowls Sets, an essential addition to your dorm room arsenal. Whether you’re an aspiring chef or just trying to survive on ramen and cereal, these dishes are a must-have.

Over the door organizer for dorm room

Deal of the Day for June 4th – All-IN-ONE Over the Door Organizer

Don’t you just love the smell of a good deal in the morning? Well, folks, today’s dorm room deal of the day is so good, it might just have you reconsidering your stance on clutter. Allow me to introduce the VICTORICH All-IN-ONE Over the Door Organizer, your new best friend in the battle against the chaos that is dorm life. This nifty contraption is not just an organizer; it’s a lifesaver, a space-saver, and quite possibly, a sanity-saver.

First Aid Kit for College

Deal of the Day for June 3rd: 29% Off Portable Compact First Aid Kit!

Don’t laugh, I know this isn’t a sexy product, but it’s a sexy deal. Today’s Dorm Room Deal of the Day is the Johnson & Johnson All-Purpose Portable Compact First Aid Kit. This little beauty is packed with 160 pieces of life-saving goodness, and it’s currently 29% off on Amazon. Perfect for minor cuts, scrapes, sprains, and burns, it’s ideal for home, car, travel, camping, and those inevitable dorm room emergencies.

Towels for Dorm Room

Deal of the Day for May 31st: 50% Off Towels!

Hey there, future dorm room royalty! If you’re getting ready to head off to college, it’s time to talk about something essential yet often overlooked: towels. Yes, those fluffy rectangles of comfort are about to become your new best friends. Today’s Dorm Room Deal of the Day is the American Soft Linen Luxury 6 Piece Towel Set, currently 50% off on Amazon. With a set of 2 bath towels, 2 hand towels, and 2 washcloths, these luxurious, 100% cotton Turkish towels are here to elevate your dorm life.

The Emotional Support Pickle

The $13 Graduation gift that all of your friends need. The Emotional Support Pickle

Hey there, future dorm dwellers and recent grads! Today’s Dorm Room Deal of the Day is as quirky and unique as your college experience is about to be. If you thought graduation gifts were all about boring gift cards and clichéd mugs, think again. Introducing the 2024 Graduation Gift Emotional Support Pickle, a handmade, positive crochet wonder that’s here to bring some much-needed humor and comfort to your dorm room.

Moving Bags for College

Deal of the Day for May 29th: 34% Off Large Moving Bags!

Hey there, future dorm dwellers and proud parents! It’s that time of year again when high school seniors are basking in their graduation glory and getting ready for the next big adventure: college! But before you can wave goodbye to the kids and reclaim the quiet of your home, there’s the not-so-small matter of moving them into their dorm. Fear not, because today’s Dorm Room Deal of the Day has got you covered. Allow me to introduce the TICONN 6 Pack Extra Large Moving Bags with Zippers & Carrying Handles. These heavy-duty storage totes are about to become your new best friend.

Hangers for Dorm Room

Deal of the Day: 50% Off Magic Hangers!

Hey, future dorm-dwellers and organization aficionados! If you’re prepping for college life and wondering how to fit your entire wardrobe into a shoebox-sized closet, today’s your lucky day. We’ve found the ultimate solution to your space-saving woes: the Closet Organizers and Storage Hangers on Amazon. And the best part? These magical hangers are currently 50% off! So, let’s dive into why these hangers are a must-have for your dorm room, complete with reviews, ratings, and links to snag this awesome deal.

Buy School Supplies Now or Later?

Buy Dorm Stuff Now or Wait?

So, your high school senior just graduated. First off, congratulations! The next adventure awaits: college. As exciting as it is, preparing for college means shopping for dorm room essentials. But when should you buy what? And how can you avoid the dreaded out-of-stock notifications? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Here’s your ultimate guide to buying college dorm room essentials, complete with products, ratings, reviews, and links to Amazon. Let’s make sure you’re ahead of the game and not scrambling in August when everyone else is.

Memorial Day Deals

Best Dorm Room Deals Over Memorial Day Weekend

Hello future dorm dwellers and anxious parents! With high school graduations wrapping up and college move-in day just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to snag some killer deals on dorm essentials. Memorial Day weekend is here, and Amazon is bursting at the seams with discounts that will make your dorm room the envy of all. Plus, let’s be real, the next big sale won’t be until Labor Day, and by then, your kids will have already moved in and discovered they need all those forgotten essentials. So, let’s dive into the best dorm room deals you can grab this Memorial Day weekend!

Graduated. Now what?

OK, My High School Senior Graduated, Now What?

Congratulations! Your high school senior has finally graduated. You’ve survived the relentless PTA meetings, the nail-biting SAT prep, and the countless late-night study sessions. Now, you’re staring down the barrel of summer before college. You might be thinking, “What now?” Well, fear not! Let’s dive into the ultimate guide to spending the summer, preparing for college, and shopping for those dorm essentials that will transform your kid’s new living space from drab to fab.

IRIS WOOZOO Fan

Deal of the Day: 29% Off WOOZOO Fan!

Hey there, future dorm dwellers and air circulation aficionados! Today’s dorm room deal of the day is a breath of fresh air—literally. Let’s talk about the IRIS USA WOOZOO Fan with Remote, the 2023 model that’s here to blow your mind (and your hair). If you’re tired of sweltering in your dorm room while your roommate hogs the only window, this fan is your new best friend. Plus, it’s currently 29% off on Amazon, making it an absolute steal. So, buckle up and get ready to become a fan of this fan!

Community Bathroom at the Brody Complex, Michigan State University

Community vs. In-Suite Dorm Bathrooms

Ah, dorm life—the ultimate college experience where freedom, independence, and questionable hygiene all come together in one neat little package. And at the heart of this experience is the eternal debate: Community bathrooms or in-suite bathrooms? As a test subject, let’s use one of the largest universities in the country, Michigan State University, which offers both styles of bathrooms in their dorms. At Michigan State University (MSU), this question divides students like Spartan fans and Wolverine fans. So, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty (and sometimes grimy) details of each to determine which style reigns supreme. Grab your shower caddy and let’s get to it!

Power Strip for Dorm Room

Deal of the Day for May 22nd: 50% Off Power Strip Surge Protector!

Alright, folks, buckle up! Today’s Dorm Room Deal of the Day is something every college student needs, whether they’re aware of it or not. Picture this: you’re trying to charge your laptop, phone, tablet, Bluetooth speaker, and, let’s be honest, your electric fairy lights—all at the same time. What do you need? A reliable, super-powered surge protector, of course!

Fleece Blanket for Dorm Room

Deal of the Day for May 21st: 15% Off Sherpa Fleece Blanket!

Hey there, future dorm-dwellers and comfort enthusiasts! Today’s Dorm Room Deal of the Day is an absolute game-changer for anyone who’s ever shivered through a cold night in a drafty dorm room. Drumroll, please… presenting the Bedsure Sherpa Fleece Throw Blanket in sleek, stylish black. At 50×60 inches, it’s the perfect size to keep you warm and snug whether you’re studying, napping, or binging on Netflix. And guess what? It’s currently 15% off, making it a steal at under $20. Let’s dive into why this blanket is a must-have for your dorm room arsenal.

Moving Bags for Dorm

Deal of the Day for May 17th – Oversized Moving Bags (10% Off Coupon)

Hey, future dorm champions! Ready for another epic Dorm Room Deal of the Day? Today’s star is none other than the ClearSpace Oversized Moving Bags. If you’re gearing up for the big move to college, these bags are about to become your new best friends. They’re not just any moving bags; they’re oversized, heavy-duty, and come with backpack straps, zippers, and handles. Oh, and did I mention there’s a 10% off coupon right now? Let’s dive into why you need these in your life!

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