As I begin to prepare to move back to school in exactly one month, I started the process of buying the necessities for my dorm room. Since last year, I have learned that there are just some things that I really need in my room to keep myself organized.
My friends have also shared with me their tips and tricks for dorm room must-haves.
Below are 10 items that you will definitely want to have in your room this year.
1. Mini Steamer
One of my friend's, Francesca who attends Saint Joesph's University in Pennsylvania gave me this idea. Fran said, "You will have it and everyone will borrow it." I agree because I also had one last year and trust me, you and everyone on your floor will need it during the weekends!
2. MacBook Pro
Another one of my friend's Kelli, who attends Providence College in Rhode Island, gave me the tip that the MacBook Pro is a must-have. Kelli suggests to invest in a laptop and forget the TV; you will be watching Netflix on your laptop and never touch your TV. Also, the MacBook Pro is a must for classes. You will be able to take notes, do projects and get the most done with the laptop.
3. A Good Vacuum
A vacuum is a huge must in your dorm room and it's something that you will be using all the time. My friends both at home and at school suggested it. From personal experience, I had a vacuum that ran on a rechargeable battery, and it wasn't that good. It didn't pick up everything. Also, handheld vacuums aren't the best options because you have to do the whole room and you're going to get tired fast. I would really recommend my friend's vacuum. Amy's was small, plugged into the wall and picked up everything.
4. Door Stop
A lot of my friends suggested the door stop; it's a really important item in your dorm room. Having the door stop is especially important for the first couple weeks of school. Keep your door open and it will allow you to meet so many people. I met some of my closest friends last year by keeping my door open. It's a great way to meet friends and your neighbors on your floor!
5. Shoe Rack
I think a shoe rack is one of the other most important things to have in your dorm room. I had all of my shoes in the bottom of my closet last year and it was such a disorganized mess. My friend Mairin had a shoe rack and it was such a good idea. She always had easy access and her shoes were always organized. Do yourself a huge favor and invest in a shoe rack.
6. Bath Robe
A bath robe is a really nice luxury to have. It makes walking to and from the bathroom easier. You're always covered and have privacy. A nice, comfy robe is something that also makes you feel a little more at home.
7. Air Mattress
The air mattress that I brought was used all the time. I had friends sleep in my room on it, I slept on it and a lot of my friends borrowed it as well. It's great to have for when you need an extra bed or a place to stay. It's also easy to store underneath your bed. My bed was a twin sized air mattress, so it fit perfectly on the floor in between mine and my roommate's beds.
8. Fold-Up Chair
Another cool thing that my friend Mairin had was a fold-up chair. It was such a great idea. It was good for sitting in the hallways while studying late at night and it was also great because she always had a place to sit. Me and my friends always hung out in each other's rooms to watch "The Bachelor" or to have a girls night. Having a fold-up chair is a good idea because you are always guaranteed a comfy spot.
9. Drying Rack
My friend Nicole had a drying rack and it's something that is a really great thing to have in your dorm room. The dryers at school get really hot and end up shrinking a lot of your clothes. The drying rack is great because you can dry your clothes right in your room, nothing shrinks and it saves you some laundry money. The drying rack is also a great item because it's easy to set up and easy to take down. It also stores easily!
10. Good Makeup Mirror
The last item that is a must for your dorm room is a good makeup mirror. I used my makeup mirror a lot during the week and weekend to get ready. I would suggest one with a light so that you have an easier time doing your hair and makeup. I used it and so did my friends; it was something that I will be bringing back with me this year!
