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college apartment checklist

Moving into your first college apartment can be exciting, especially if you've never lived on your own before. However, trying to figure out what to bring might be overwhelming. Compared to a dorm, a college apartment can seem downright massive. Worry not; our <a href="https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/static/collegechecklist">college apartment checklist</a> will help you to pick out the essentials as well as some nice extras.

1. college apartment essentials for your bedroom

The bedroom should be a sanctuary where you can relax and get the sleep needed to be successful in your classes. It should also provide an ideal space to study in a quiet area away from roommates and guests. It's important that your bedroom is comfortable, has the necessary bedroom furniture, and allows you to control how much light can enter. Some of the college apartment bedroom ideas you might want to include on your college checklist include the following:

<ul><li>Fitted and flat&nbsp;sheets</li><li>Comforter set</li><li>Bed pillows</li><li>Mattress topper</li><li>Window curtain panels</li><li>Clothes hangers</li><li>Laundry hamper</li><li>Storage bins</li><li>Reading lamp</li></ul>

You might also want to purchase an area rug and wall art&nbsp;to express your personality through the décor. With the right touches, the bedroom can make the apartment feel more like home.

2. kitchen essentials for a college apartment

Whether you're an accomplished cook or just starting out, it's important to have a well-stocked kitchen in college. Learning to prepare meals can help you stick to a budget. Plus, living off burgers and take-out pizza will get old after a while. Some of the <a href="https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/category/college/kitchen-dining/10621">college apartment kitchen essentials</a> include the following:








<ul><li>Cookware</li><li>Dinnerware</li><li>Glassware</li><li>Flatware</li><li>Kitchen tools</li><li>Food storage</li><li>Drawer organizers</li><li>Coffee makers</li><li>Toaster oven and other small kitchen appliances</li></ul>

With the right kitchen items, you'll enjoy a healthier, tastier diet. And you may even develop a life-long love of cooking.

3. essentials for your college apartment bathroom

Like the bedroom, the bathroom is another place for you to relax and get ready for the day. Choosing plush bath towels, washcloths, bath rugs, and other accouterments can add to the bathroom's ambiance for a more relaxing experience. Some of the <a href="https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/category/college/bath/10622">college bath items</a> to consider including on your checklist include the following:















<ul><li>Bath towels</li><li>Hand towels</li><li>Washcloths</li><li>Shower curtain and liner</li><li>Bath rugs</li><li>Toothbrush and toothpaste holder</li><li>Shower organizer</li><li>Towel shelf if needed</li></ul>

When browsing through the options, choose matching bath items to make the bathroom aesthetically pleasing.

4. essentials for the college apartment living room

The living room provides you with a place to socialize and entertain. Whether you plan to have friends over regularly or simply will want a place to chill and watch television, you'll need the necessary furniture and decor. to make it feel homey. Some of the items that you should include on your living room checklist include the following:



















<ul><li>Sofa or futon</li><li>Lounge chairs</li><li>TV stands & entertainment centers</li><li>Bookcases & shelves</li><li>Lamps</li><li>Area rug</li><li>Wall decor</li><li>Decorative accessories</li></ul>
Since the living room will be your spot for entertaining, it's all about making it as inviting as possible. Choose practical items like futonsand TV stands as well products that will cozy up the area — like area rugs and wall art.

5. laundry essentials for a college apartment

Will you be having a washer and dryer in the apartment or be using a shared laundry facility in the building? Either way, it's important to have the necessary <a href="https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/category/college/laundry-cleaning/13308">laundry supplies</a> to keep your clothes clean and looking nice. Include the following for the laundry:













<ul><li>Clothes baskets</li><li>Laundry hamper</li><li>Iron</li><li>Ironing board</li><li>Clothing steamer</li><li>Laundry detergent and dryer sheets</li></ul>
While it may be tempting to attend class in your pajamas every day, it's important to also have items like an iron and steamer. You'll want to class it up if you're ever attending a school function or having a night out.

what to pack for a college apartment?

A great thing about shopping our vast collection of home items for a <a href="https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/page/College">college</a> apartment is that you can use the <a href="https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/static/pack-and-hold">college pack and hold</a> feature so that you don't have to transport all of the items you need. Instead, you can purchase products online and reserve them for pickup at a store located near your new apartment. With this feature, you'll only need to pack other items like clothes, hygiene products, and other personal belongings that can readily fit into a suitcase. This can make the relocation to college much simpler for both you and any family helping you with the move.

Home & Decorating

make it cozy! everything you need for a great dorm bed

Dorm room beds are not exactly known for being luxurious… or comfortable… or new (lots of people have slept there before you). The good part? Your bed is the perfect opportunity to show off your style and make it yours.One term to know: twin XL. Most dorm room mattresses come in this odd size, which is five inches longer than a standard twin-size bed. When buying fitted sheets, mattress protectors, and mattress toppers, it’s important to keep this dimension in mind!

mattress & pillow protectors

A mattress protector is an absolute must. It creates a barrier between you and your mattress, which you want because you don’t know who or what has been there before. Plus, it protects against bedbugs, spills, and the like. Just trust us on this one. A pillow protector also fends off allergens like dander and dust—and can extend your pillow’s life span.

mattress toppers

Mattress toppers are all about comfort. A few inches of extra cushion can give you better sleep—and you know how much you’ll be needing that. And, if you are a hot sleeper, some of our toppers have cooling properties.

mattress pads

These also can add comfort, act as a waterproof layer, and regulate temperature, but their main job is holding the topper and protector in place—important!

sheet sets

We recommend two sets, or three if you have the room, so you can change your sheets without having to do laundry. Remember, twin XL! If you’re buying separates instead of sheet sets, only the fitted sheet needs to be twin XL. Fun fact: In a set, the bottom sheet is the only one that’s extra long anyway.Pay attention to specific features, such as the thread count and fabric: Are the sheets designed to wick moisture or help you keep you warm? Consider the weather where your school is located and the air conditioning situation in the room (if there is one), and pick what works for you.

duvet covers

To top your bed, you’ll need a comforter or a duvet cover with an insert. This is a personal choice, and there are advantages to both. We love a duvet cover because to clean it, all you have to do is remove the insert and toss the cover in the wash. Covers come in lots of colors and patterns, and you can choose your style independently of your insert.

comforter sets

With a comforter set, it’s easy to give your bed a cohesive look. They usually come with shams, so you won’t have to buy additional pillows and your bed will still look put-together. For college, we highly recommend going with a machine-washable version. It will make life so much easier!

blanket or throw

An extra blanket is always good when you’re chilling and don’t want to get all the way under the covers. Great for naps, on extra cold nights, or for when visitors come to stay.

bed pillows

You need a comfortable one. Note: Having more pillows doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll be more comfortable. Too many pillows can crowd your room. Remember, space is going to be tight! Get one or two nice pillows that do the job well, and you’ll be good to go.

specialty pillows

These add a little flair (and comfort) to your bed. While you don’t want to overdo it (because, space), one or two shams along with throw, body, or backrest pillows are great additions to your space. They can also help keep you comfortable while you sleep, make your space homier, and be used to help you sit up taller when you’re watching TV or studying.

make it easy!

20% off your ENTIRE order every time you shop with a <a href="https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/static/collegesavingspass" target="_self">College Savings Pass</a>. Valid thru 9/30.<a href="https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/static/collegesavingspass" target="_self">Get yours now!</a>The easiest way to get your stuff to campus! With <a href="https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/static/pack-and-hold" target="_self">Pack & Hold</a>, buy now, and pick it up near campus on Move-in Day.<a href="https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/page/College" target="_self">See details.</a>

Cleaning & Organizing

how to organize your dorm room closet

When living in a small space like a dorm room, it is important to make the most of every inch. This includes your closet! A cluttered and messy closet can make it difficult to find what you're looking for and makes the room feel smaller. Browse the wide variety of <a href="https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/category/college/storage-organization/10624">storage & organization&nbsp;items</a> available at Bed Bath & Beyond to find the ones that will work best for your dorm room closet.

1. storage bins and baskets

<a href="https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/category/college/storage-organization/storage-bins-baskets/16239">Storage bins and baskets </a>are great for storing items that you don't use very often or seasonal items. If your dorm room closet is on the smaller side, consider using storage bins and baskets to store seasonal items and other things that you don't use very often. This will help keep your closet organized and free up some space.

2. hangers & hooks

If you have a lot of clothes, you may want to invest in a storage system that includes <a href="https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/category/college/storage-organization/hangers-hooks/12527">hangers for college dorms</a>. There are a variety of storage systems available, so be sure to do some research to find the one that best suits your needs. 
 
For items that don't need hangers, you can choose hooks that are easy to stick on a closet wall and just as easy to remove when you want to put them somewhere else. There are also special types of hooks you can use to hang belts, bags, hats, or other accessories. Wall-mounted or over-the-door racks of hooks are another idea to consider.

3. carts & shelving

If your closet is on the larger side, you may want to consider adding a cart or shelving unit. This will provide extra storage space for clothes, shoes, or other items. Carts and shelving units are also great for organizing your closet in neat-looking sections.

4. shoe storage racks

When it comes to organizing your dorm room closet, shoe racks are a great place to start. Choose one that fits the number of shoes you have and the space available for them in your closet. If you have a lot of shoes, look for a rack that has multiple levels so you can store them all in one place. Also, measure the space inside your closet before selecting a <a href="https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/category/college/storage-organization/shoe-storage/12525">dorm room shoe storage</a> system.

5. closet storage drawers

Drawers are a great way to keep your closet organized and tidy. They provide a place to store items such as clothes, shoes, or accessories. Drawers are also great for organizing your closet and keeping it looking neat and tidy. Choose <a href="https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/category/college/storage-organization/clothing-storage/12524">clothing storage for dorm rooms</a> that includes drawers to maximize the space in your dorm room closet.

6. vacuum storage bags

These are great for storing out-of-season clothes or extra bedding. Simply vacuum out the air and seal the bag. Storage bags take up a lot less space than storing items in their original packaging and can be stacked on top of each other. Bed Bath & Beyond has a great selection of vacuum storage bags in different sizes to fit your needs.

7. storage containers

Another way to organize your dorm room closet is by using plastic <a href="https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/category/college/storage-organization/storage-containers/12526">storage containers</a>. They're great for storing small items like socks, underwear, and T-shirts and can also be used to store larger items like sweaters and jeans. For items like sheets and quilts, grab a low-profile container on wheels that you can keep under your bed. Browse the selection of storage containers at Bed Bath & Beyond to find the perfect option for your space.

By following these tips, you can maximize the space in your dorm room closet and keep it looking neat and tidy. With a little bit of planning, you can easily turn your cluttered closet into a well-organized space.

Bathroom

dorm bathroom essentials

When packing to head off to college, thoughts eventually head toward the college bathroom. You will inevitably ask, "What do I need for a college bathroom?" Whether you’re living in a dorm with a larger communal bathroom, or just sharing an en suite bathroom with roommates, having the right things will make or break how you feel about taking care of yourself. Consider these five must-have college and <a href="https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/category/college/bath/">dorm bathroom essentials</a> while planning and packing all of your supplies and necessities.

1. shower curtains & bath accessories

Some of the most often overlooked college bathroom essentials are the <a href="https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/category/college/bath/shower-curtains-bath-accessories/12727">shower curtain and other bath accessories</a>. Keeping your privacy is important, not to mention reducing the mess of water getting everywhere. Having a separate liner helps improve privacy while also making the shower easier to clean. While you’re thinking about a shower curtain, don’t forget about some decorative curtain hooks and a bath rug. 
 
Beyond the curtain, your college bathroom essentials list should also include a wastebasket, soap dish, toothbrush holder, a cleaning squeegee, and a showerhead you’ll enjoy. These take your basic college bathroom from barely functional to a place where you leave feeling like you’re prepared to tackle the day.

2. shower totes & bath storage

What kind of shower caddy is best for college? Most students find having a <a href="https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/category/college/bath/shower-totes-and-bath-storage/12513/_shower-caddy-hanging/c19mX2JpblByb2R1Y3RfVHlwZToiU2hvd2VyIENhZGR5IChIYW5naW5nKSI=">dorm bathroom caddy</a> makes preparing for the day easy and relaxing. You have a variety of design options to consider, including mesh and stylish canvas, plastic, and wire. 
 
What works best for you depends on the shower facilities available. If you’re not sure what that looks like, many students appreciate a simple plastic tote with compartments for their various bathroom essentials. 
Don’t forget about some storage for when you’re not in the shower. Whether you need drawers, shelves, or bins, this helps keep all of your college bathroom necessities organized so that you can easily find what you need when you need it.

3. bath towels

There’s nothing like stepping out of a shower and wrapping up in a soft and absorbent <a href="https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/category/college/bath/bath-towels-rugs/12726">bath towel</a>.&nbsp; 
 
Typical options include cotton, polyester, and nylon, or a combination of those. Cotton towels tend to be more absorbent and softer. However, polyester blended towels dry more quickly, which reduces the risk of allergens. 
 
While shopping for towels, consider the other bathroom linens you’ll need. Be sure to have hand towels, washcloths, and a shower mat on your list.

4. shower robes & slippers

What will you wear on the way to and from your college dorm bathroom? Of course, there’s the need for a robe, but also consider the feel, and keeping them clean being you’re in a communal environment. 
 
Bathrobes come in a variety of options so that you can find one that gives you a comfy feeling. Consider whether you want an absorbent robe or just a covering. In a communal environment, a customized bathrobe may prove helpful to ensure it doesn’t accidentally walk away. 
 
If the traditional bathrobe isn’t enticing, you may enjoy a shower wrap instead. These are a lot smaller, dry faster, but still provide a great covering to get to and from the bathroom. 
 
For your feet, you’ll want something to wear to and from the bathroom. As you consider flip-flops and slippers, consider something with a rubberized or plastic sole to prevent damage from the bathroom moisture. 
 
In a communal bathroom setting, shower shoes encourage better hygiene. These are usually flip-flop style but have additional holes in the sole to allow water to flow through.

5. vanity mirrors & organizers

Whether you’re applying makeup, shaving, or grooming a beard, having what you need close by and being able to see what you’re doing is essential. Dorm rooms are notorious for being a small space to live in but do not include basic amenities like a quality mirror. 
 
Think about the kind of <a href="https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/category/college/bath/vanity-travel-mirrors/14252?icid=l2_st_4acr4_collegebath_mirrors_24314">compact or travel vanity mirror</a> that will give you the view you need. Do you require something with more magnification? Would you find a desktop model and a handheld mirror helpful so that you can see the back of your head? 
 
You’ll also want easy organizers to keep makeup, tweezers, and nail tools. You may have space for a small set of storage drawers, which can be helpful to keep everything separated and organized. 
 
However, you may need to consider smaller storage bins instead. These allow you to easily grab what you need now without having to go through everything.

Heading to college is exciting but can also be stressful when you don’t know what to pack. Consider your specific living situation, then head to Bed Bath & Beyond to find all of your college bathroom essentials in a single stop.

top tips for a less-stressful college move-in day

1. prep way ahead of time

Knowing what to bring (and what not to bring) is half the battle. While they’ll be tempted to basically bring their entire room at home to campus, strongly encourage them (bribe them?) to perform a thorough purging session to winnow things down.

2. pack bins & drawers beforehand

Things like towels, extra bed sheets, snacks, and bathroom supplies will be needed throughout the whole year. It makes sense to store them in bins and drawers that stack under the bed or, space permitting, near it. Pack all those items in their designated bins at home – literally a lifesaver on college move-in day. And don’t forget to tape them shut to avoid spillage during the move.

3. save time: keep clothes on hangers

Trust us… you don’t want to waste time hanging clothes on move-in day. Get slim hangers (the space-saving ones) and pre-hang the clothes at home, so they can go straight from the car into the dorm closet.

4. pack the basics in a weekend bag

Keep all the daily must-haves (toothbrush, phone/laptop chargers, hairbrush, contact lenses, deodorant, make up, eyeglasses, medicines, favorite cap, a fresh change of clothes) handy in a separate bag so you’re not scrambling to find them at the last minute.

5. bring a toolkit, hooks & putty

College move-in day may involve some unexpected work, so keep a toolkit handy as you help set things up in their room. Also, stock up on adhesive hooks and putty—for hanging towels, wall art, tapestries, curtains, etc.

6. don’t forget a fan, mini cooler & snacks

Move-in day typically falls in August. And that means it could be a sweltering, miserable day. Since most dorm rooms are not air conditioned or adequately cooled, a fan, chilled bottles of water, and snacks may help make the experience a little more pleasant.

7. pack bedding last, unpack it first

As you pack your car, put the bedding in a spot for first-out access. Keep the mattress pad, blankets, sheets, pillows, and comforter all together so it’s easy to start making the bed.

20% off your ENTIRE order every time you shop with a <a href="https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/static/collegesavingspass" target="_self">College Savings Pass</a>. Valid thru 9/30.
<a href="https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/static/collegesavingspass" target="_self">Get yours now!</a>
The easiest way to get your stuff to campus! With <a href="https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/static/pack-and-hold" target="_self">Pack & Hold</a>, buy now, and pick it up near campus on Move-in Day.
<a href="https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/page/college" target="_self">See details.</a>

dorm cleaning supplies every college student should have

Cleaning

When you're packing for college, don't forget to stock up on cleaning supplies. The right dorm cleaning supplies can be just as essential as your textbooks and clothes. To make sure you don't forget anything important, follow our cleaning products list to prepare for school.

cleaning supplies

The first thing to do when shopping for <a href="https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/category/college/laundry-cleaning/vacuums-cleaning-supplies/13312">cleaning supplies</a> for a dorm is to make a list of the basics. You'll need some everyday cleaners such as bleach or an all-purpose spray. Depending on your dorm, you might also want some specialized cleaners like glass cleaner or countertop cleaner. 
 
Next, make sure you have some sponges. A few microfiber cloths are another helpful tool for dealing with general grime. You can also get disposable wipes soaked in a sanitizing solution which can be a quick way of removing messes. And, of course, a toilet brush is an essential part of shopping for dorm bathroom cleaning supplies.

vacuums

A common question that new college students ask is, "should you bring a vacuum to your dorm?" In most cases, this is a good idea. A <a href="https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/category/college/laundry-cleaning/vacuums-cleaning-supplies/13312">vacuum</a>
can clean many surfaces a broom can't, such as carpet, couches, and curtains. 
 
If finding room for your vacuum is a big concern, we're here to help. Bed Bath & Beyond has a nice selection of petite vacuums that will easily fit into your dorm room storage. When shopping for a dorm vacuum, consider slim stick vacuums or upright vacuums. Another option is a handheld vacuum. These can be great for cleaning up small messes.

brooms and mops

If your dorm doesn't have carpet, brooms are an essential type of dorm cleaning tool. They're great for cleaning up dirt, crumbs, and other debris on the floor. Furthermore, brooms tend to be lightweight and affordable, so they're a tool any college student can get. 
 
Mops help to give your dorm more of a deep clean. They scrub away stains and dried gunk, so you can use them for things like mud. When looking for a mop for a dorm, consider a mop with a built-in cleaning canister or cleaning pad. These hold the cleaning solution for you, so you don't have to use a bucket as you mop.

trash cans

Having a few good trash cans will keep clutter from building up. In addition to organizing your dorm, they also help you cut back on ants, roaches, and other critters. 
 
At the very least, you need one medium or large trash can in a central spot. Make sure it has a lid to reduce odors. Depending on your lifestyle, you might also want a smaller can near a couch or desk. Finally, make sure you have a trash can in your bathroom to handle tissues and other waste products.

laundry care

When you're busy cleaning your dorm, you'll also need to clean your clothes and bedding. The right <a href="https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/category/college/laundry-cleaning/laundry-care/14232">laundry supplies</a> should clean your clothes without damaging them or stripping away their color. 
 
The exact cleaning products list will vary depending on the types of clothes you have. Most students at least need some detergent and a laundry hamper. You might also want fabric softeners, bleach, and stain removers. If you have delicates, wash bags can protect them in the washing machine.

odor eliminators

When you have guests visit your dorm, they won't notice the random clutter you have shoved under the bed. However, they will notice any weird smells. Controlling odors is an essential part of keeping your dorm clean. When your dorm smells fresh and clean, people will assume it's well-maintained. 
 
If your main issue is humidity causing musty smells, try a moisture absorber. For the bathroom, you can get toilet sprays that block unpleasant scents. And if you're just dealing with general weird smells, consider all-purpose gel <a href="https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/category/storage-cleaning/cleaning/odor-eliminators/14548">odor eliminators</a>.

dish soap and hand soap

Don't forget to get soap when you're shopping for college apartment cleaning supplies. This will make it easier for you and your belongings to stay clean. You don't typically need a hundred different types of soap. Instead, two basic styles will be enough to manage basic household cleaning. 
 
Start with a good kitchen detergent. Dish soap is great for cleaning your dishes, but it also works in other situations. Since dish soap strips away grease, you can use it to clean stainless steel and other parts of your dorm. You should also get some hand soap. This is a little milder than kitchen soap, so it won't leave your hands dry and cracked.

By following our college dorm cleaning checklist, you can be prepared for every spilled drink, weird smell, or scattered bag of chips. When you're properly prepared for basic cleaning, you can enjoy a more comfortable, appealing dorm room.

10 dorm room essentials you didn’t know you needed

‘Tis the season to make your list and check it twice. And no, not that season, just the one you’re prepping for… college Move-in Day! While you may have all the essentials checked off and in your cart, here are a few that often fall off the radar.

1. bed risers

These raise the height of the dorm bed and create space for extra storage under it. A perfect place to keep things out of the way and tucked out of sight. Bed risers with power outlets built into them get extra credit for dual functionality.

2. step stool

Whether it’s to easily climb onto a raised bed or to reach something on a high shelf, you’ll be surprised how often a step stool comes in handy.

3. storage ottoman

An ottoman is a handy place to sit while putting on shoes, as an extra seat for visiting friends, or for storing throw blankets, extra linens, books, etc.

4. bathrobe/towel wrap

If there’s a shared bathroom situation in your dorm, bathrobes and wraps are gotta-haves for hopping out of the shower and back to the room without an awkward towel malfunction.

5. coffee maker

If coffee is your fuel, a single-serve coffee maker is a no-brainer. These are some of the most popular—they’re small, easy, and cool-looking.

6. full-length mirror

Of course you want a full head-to-toe outfit view. Get one that hangs over the door to save space.

7. first aid kit

It's inevitable. Somebody’s going to stub a toe, get a splinter, or suffer a mean headache. Keep one of these handy.

8. clip-on lamp

In a shared space nobody likes an ugly overhead light, so attach a clip-on lamp to your headboard. It gives off more focused lighting and won’t disturb a sleeping roommate.

9. hand vacuum

While a regular vacuum is great for the larger areas, having an easily accessible handheld is perfect for little messes and the often neglected under-the-bed space.

10. lap desk

A lot of students prefer not to spend long hours in an uncomfy dorm desk chair. A lap desk is the perfect solution.

8 things to split with your college roommate

Ideas

8 things to share with your roommate in college

College is expensive enough without the challenge of setting up your dorm room. Plus, with a roommate, there’s simply no need to buy all the same common <a href="https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/page/college">dorm room essentials</a>. Here are eight things to share with your college roommate, so neither of you needs to foot the whole bill for them.

1. coffee makers

Whether to help you wake up for class in the morning or stay up studying late into the night, coffee is a college student’s best friend. And, what better way to bond with your roommate than to enjoy a fresh cup together from your shared dorm room <a href="https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/category/college/kitchen-dining/coffee-coffee-makers/14259">coffee maker</a>?&nbsp;
If you just want a single cup, you can use a pour-over coffee maker to save on electricity or a single-serve machine to minimize cleanup. When it’s several cups or a whole pot you need, whether together or solo, you can use a French press or drip machine. Some coffee makers, like an automatic drip coffee maker or an auto espresso machine, have timers you can set to have a fresh brew waiting for you when you wake up or return from class.

2. dinnerware, glassware, and utensils

With the dining hall right there in the dorm and cafés and restaurants close by, there’s no need for each of you to have separate flatware and dinnerware. Get a small set of dishes, glasses, and utensils, and clean whatever you use right after your meal.

3. trash cans

Dorm rooms are messy enough without multiple <a href="https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/category/kitchen/trash-recycling/trash-cans/14368">trash cans</a> littered about. Reduce the mess by sharing a trash can and trash takeout duties. Lidless trash cans are fun for making shots with your crumpled-up notes, while trash cans with lids can help you keep the room looking better. You can open lidded trash cans, with a step-on, manual, or voice- and motion-sensing mechanism.

4. vacuums

While you’re focusing on school and your social life, your dorm room can get pretty cluttered (even with a great trash can). This is where a vacuum cleaner comes in handy. Vacuums can take up a lot of space, though, and dorm rooms are small, so all you really need is one per room. You can find corded and cordless vacuums and choose between upright and canister models.

5. fans

While you stay looking cool to your friends, you can also stay feeling cool in your dorm room. Chances are you have only one window in your dorm room anyway, so you and your roommate might as well share the fan that sits there cooling it. A shared tower fan or pedestal fan can keep you both cool without taking up too much space.

6. area rugs

There’s not much floor space in a typical dorm room, but by sharing <a href="https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/category/college/decor/rugs/13075">area rugs</a>, you can make what space there is look the way you both want it to. As a bonus, you’ll keep your feet cozy while pacing as you memorize facts for a test or plot your next paper. The right area rugs can help make your dorm room an expression of your personality and your roommate's. Look at solid color rugs and patterned rugs, and consider the variety of area rug materials, like shag, jute, cotton, and polypropylene. You can choose between power-loomed and hand-woven area rugs, too.

7. laundry supplies

There never seems to be enough time to do laundry in college, but there's also never enough clean clothes around when you need them. How about sharing laundry duties with your roommate, and taking a load off both your backs?&nbsp;If you're going to do that, then sharing laundry supplies like hampers and laundry baskets only makes sense. Even if you don't do your laundry together, or take turns washing both your clothes, you only need one of <a href="https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/category/college/laundry-cleaning/13308">laundry care items</a> like drying racks, irons, and ironing boards.

8. furniture

Dorm rooms don't tend to have much space for furniture. Sure, you may each need your own desk chair, but if each of you also gets your own lounge seating, bookcase, and shelves, there could be little room left in your dorm room for a path through the furniture. Instead, combine your tastes and your limited dollars for some shared furniture you'll both use.

College is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and your roommate is one of the people with whom you'll share it most closely. Sharing certain dorm room&nbsp;essentials you'll both need and use can help you bond while spending less and furnishing the room comfortably, so you can both focus on the real work that leads to graduation day.

Discover dorm room ideas and tips from the pros at Bed Bath & Beyond to make your college apartment or dorm room feel like home.

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