When it comes to dorm life, functionality is key—but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style. Your dorm room should be more than just a place to crash after a long day; it’s your sanctuary, your study zone, and the backdrop for countless college memories. Think of it as a blank canvas ready for you to make your mark. Whether you’re a minimalist who loves clean lines and a clutter-free space, or someone who craves a little more luxury and comfort, our back-to-school gift guide has got you covered.
See also: In our carts: 15 home & design must-haves to revitalize your space
The 10 Back-to-school essentials you need to make your dorm feel like home…
From smart storage solutions that keep your space organized without cramping your style, to cozy bedding that makes your bed the best seat in the house, to sophisticated fragrances that set the right mood, and lighting that elevates the entire vibe of your room—these essentials will help you create a space that’s not just functional but feels like home. Because why settle for a generic dorm room when you can turn it into a space that’s uniquely yours?
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Glivpny Cordless Mushroom Table Lamp
Portable, cordless, rechargeable, and featuring three different brightness settings, this Danish-inspired mushroom lamp will change the way you think about lighting. Whether you’re hitting the books, having a chill night in with your roomie, or setting the mood for a cozy evening, this stylish little beauty will light the way to all your bright ideas.
Available at Amazon
IKEA NISSAFORS Utility Cart
It’s no secret that dorm rooms are crammed for space, so in these times, functionality and creativity are everything. Enter this cheerful yellow cart, as versatile as it is stylish. It adds a pop of color to your space while keeping things organized. Use it to stash study essentials, keep snacks handy for late-night cravings, or even set it up as a mobile bar when you’re hosting friends. With this cart, staying organized is as easy as rolling it from one room to the next.
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Available at IKEA
Nest Moroccan Amber Classic Candle
While there’s truly no place like home, there are plenty of ways to make your new space feel just as inviting. Add a touch of flair to your dorm by personalizing it with the rich scent of this Moroccan amber candle. Featuring a blend of Moroccan amber, sweet patchouli, heliotrope, and bergamot, with a hint of eucalyptus, this candle will fill your room with an exotic, comforting aroma that instantly elevates the vibe.
Available at Nest
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Blu Dot Bumper Small Ottoman Tray
Small spaces demand furniture that’s sleek, functional, and still easy on the eyes. Enter Blu Dot’s Bumper series—a versatile dorm room essential that does it all. It can serve as a coffee table, ottoman, footrest, or portable tray, making it the ultimate multitasker. With options in four different base colors and over 15 upholstery options for the ottoman, the variety is unmatched. It’s stylish, practical, and ready to adapt to whatever you need. What more could you ask for?
Available at Blu Dot
MUJI Essential Oil Diffuser
If you’re after a flameless way to infuse your dorm with a fresh scent, diffusers and nebulizers might just become your new best friend—like this sleek option from MUJI. Featuring four timer settings and two LED light options, this diffuser uses ultrasonic waves to spread a fragrant mist across up to 130 square feet, making your room smell amazing while adding a touch of ambiance.
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Available at MUJI
Umbra Cubiko Adhesive Bins
Elevate your dorm’s space with Cubiko Shower Bins. These sleek, non-damaging caddies fit seamlessly into any decor and are perfect for the shower, kitchen, or anywhere you need extra storage. With waterproof adhesive strips for easy installation on tiles, drywall, and more, they keep your essentials organized without leaving a mark.
Available at Umbra
Frigidaire White Retro Mini Fridge
When it comes to dorm life, nothing says “I’ve got my act together” like the Frigidaire mini fridge. It’s the chicest 3.2 cu. ft. of pure magic—perfect for stashing late-night snacks, your emergency ice cream stash, and maybe even a few cheeky beverages. Its retro design is so stylish it could be an accessory, while the adjustable thermostat and removable shelves make it the ultimate multitasker.
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Available at Amazon
Silk & Snow Percale Bed Sheets
Crisp, cool, and breathable, Silk & Snow’s luxurious percale cotton sheets are your ticket to a dreamy dorm room oasis. Designed for ultimate comfort, these sheets ensure you drift into deep slumbers after marathon study sessions or late-night cram fests. The percale weave delivers a fresh, crisp feel that keeps you cool on warm nights, while the high-quality cotton breathes effortlessly to keep you cozy all night long. If you’re craving a restful refuge from your hectic schedule, these sheets are your perfect match.
Available at Silk & Snow
HOKA Ora Recovery Slide 3
Whether you’re dashing to the dorm showers, hitting the cafeteria, or just picking up your UberEats, you need slides that are as comfortable as they are practical. I swear by HOKA’s Recovery Slide—these beauties cradle your feet in cushioned comfort and sport a sleek design that feels ahead of its time. They’ve become my go-to for pretty much everything.
Available at Zappos
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Nespresso Vertuo Pop
While an espresso machine might not be a dorm room must-have, it’s a game-changer if you’re looking to save some cash. Trust me, if you’re anything like me back in my student days, those $8 coffee fixes add up quickly, especially when you’re hitting up three a day. Nespresso brings you that luxurious café taste without breaking the bank with hundreds of flavours to choose from.
Available at Nespresso
