In a frenzy to pack up the majority of their belongings, many prospective and returning college students almost always forget something. And unless you have a car, getting to and from stores for last-minute purchases may prove to be quite difficult. As preparing for college can be kinda daunting (especially when a budget is in place), the more organized you are earlier on, the better. Why spend money on unimportant essentials when you could put that towards books and daily needs? Below is a cheat sheet on college dorm items you should buy now and things you can put on hold for later.

Provided Basics – Common Existing Down Items

• XL-twin bed
• Multi-drawer dresser
• Desk with chair
• Shared closet space
• Trash can

(photo: Suat Eman)

College Dorm Items to Buy Now

(Essentials/Basics)

• Fan
• First aid kit
• Mop/Swiffer
• Broom with dust pan
• Household cleaners (disinfectants, etc.)
• Toilet paper (can never have enough)
• Paper towels
• Brita or water filter
• Hand sanitizer (keep a big bottle in the room)
• Laundry detergent
• Bleach
• Batteries (all sizes)
• Mini ironing board
• Iron
• Laundry bin/hamper
• Mini tool kit

(photo: imagerymajestic)

(Linens & Textiles)

• (2) Fitted and flat sheet sets (always have a spare)
• Comforter/duvet
• Pillowcase (should only need one, but most bedding sets come with two)

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Tip: Purchase a bed in a bag set that includes a fitted and flat sheet, two pillowcases and comforter. Also pick up an extra fitted and flat sheet set (will cost less) so you can alternate your sheets during laundry.

• Throw/blanket (great for cold nights studying)
• (4) Washcloths
• (4) Towels
• (1-2) Kitchen hand towels
• Pot holder

(photo: John Kasawa)

(Eating & Entertaining)

• (4) Non-glass drinkware
• (4) Durable plates
• (4) Durable bowls
• (2) Mugs
• (2-4 of each) Forks, spoons and knives
• Small sauce pot (everyone needs mac n’ cheese)
• Small skillet
• Hot pot (check with dorm about regulations)
• Can opener
• Bottle opener
• Cutlery/utensil holder (can use old cans or an oversized cup)
• Mixing bowls** (if you are planning to cook or bake)
• TV tray

(photo: federico stevanin)

(Study/Desk Area)

• Desk lamp
• Cork or dry erase board
• Alarm clock
• Wall clock (optional)
• Desk organizer/storage (compartments for loose supplies)
• Portable drives (USB)
• Portable filing cabinet/drawer (if you have the space, this can double as a side table or nightstand)
• Surge protector
• Cord organizers

(Storage & Organization)

• Closet storage bins
• Shoe rack/caddy
• Hangers (lots)
• Closet organizers (shelf dividers, hanging organizers, etc.)
• Over-the-door hanging organizer

(photo: Idea go)

(Bathroom)

• Shampoo & conditioner
• Liquid body soap
• Liquid hand soap
• Bathrobe
• Flip flops
• Shower caddy

(Misc. Design Stuff)

• Oversized/boyfriend pillow (will come in handy when studying)
• Picture frames

College Dorm Items You Can Put on Hold

• Decorative accents (area rug, bathroom accessories, etc.) – The last thing you want to do is buy something that your roomie may not like or already has. Choose these options together and split purchases (one person buys one thing, etc.).
• TV and coordinating items (stereo system, BluRay/DVD player) – Decide who will bring theirs.
• Mini fridge|coffee maker|microwave|blender|futon – These are items that you will need during your college experience. Try not to split these costs as it will be quite difficult to decide who gets to take them later. Ask your parents for help purchasing (if needed) and get these on your own.
• Posters/wall art|area rug|other decorative items – These are accessories (not necessities) that can be picked up at any time.

Main image: Jessica Tam, Flickr