Must-Have Items for Your College Dorm Move-In Checklist
Moving into a college dorm is a major milestone, but it can also be a hectic process. When you’re facing limited bedroom, bathroom, or kitchen space, and new routines to adjust to, having the right essentials can make all the difference.
At Superior Storage, we know all about making the most of the space you have. If you’re ready to start your college journey on the right foot with a well-planned dorm move-in checklist and a plan for student storage, read on for our helpful insights.
Bedding and Sleep Essentials
Most dorm beds use twin XL mattresses, so your standard twin sheets from home won’t quite fit. We’ll leave the style and patterns to you, but when you’re grabbing bedding for college, we recommend the following dorm essentials:
- Twin XL sheet sets (two sets for an easier laundry rotation)
- Mattress topper or foam pad for added comfort
- Pillows and pillowcases
- Comforter or blanket
- Mattress protector
Storage and Organization Solutions
Dorm rooms don’t offer much in the way of storage, so you’ll likely have to get creative. Look for space-saving options like under-bed storage bins and drawers, or hanging closet organizers to keep your living space tidy. Other options for cleaning up your dorm room include:
- Over-the-door hooks or racks
- Stackable storage cubes
- Small plastic drawer units for desk supplies or toiletries
Bathroom and Laundry Supplies
While residential hall setups vary by college and university, you can typically expect dorm bathrooms and laundry services to be shared spaces. Keep your personal hygiene and laundry items easier to grab and transport using a shower caddy or bag (make sure it’s waterproof so you can take it into the shower!). Other items we recommend for your treks to the bathroom or laundry room include:
- Shower shoes or flip-flops
- Towels and washcloths
- Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, etc.)
- Laundry basket or bag
- Detergent and dryer sheets
Basic Furniture and Dorm-Sized Appliances
While dorms usually come with a bed, desk, and dresser, there are a few extras worth bringing to make your life easier:
- Desk lamp with extra outlets or USB ports
- Folding chair for guests or extra seating
- Mini fridge (check with your school for size restrictions)
- Microwave (if allowed)
- Fan for extra air movement and white noise
Before you start buying items, check your campus housing rules to avoid packing anything not permitted.
School Supplies and Study Gear
From day one, you’ll need to be ready for classes, homework, and study sessions. Be prepared by having these college essentials like a backpack, notebooks and binders, and pens, pencils, and highlighters.
Other must-have college essentials we recommend bringing with you to campus include:
- Laptop or tablet
- Power strip with surge protection
- Printer paper and desk supplies
Personal Comfort and Daily Living Items
Your comfort items make a new space feel more like home and can help you settle in faster. Bring wall decor from your old bedroom, or grab a cozy carpet to personalize your dorm room and make it more inviting.
You should also have first aid kit, small toolkit, and cleaning supplies on hand to save yourself a trip to the store when you need a bandage or your shelf has a loose screw.
Give Yourself More Space for College with Superior Storage
If there isn’t enough space in the dorm for offseason clothes, extra bedding, or larger items, a self storage unit near campus can be a smart solution. Superior Storage offers affordable, flexible options for college students who need a little extra room, without cluttering up their dorm.
Even if you don’t need additional space until the school year ends, we offer summer storage for students to help you keep your gear close to campus.
Find a Superior Storage facility near your school and reserve your unit today!