$2 Storage Bins, a Cute Caddy, and More Dorm Items You’ll Have for Keeps

When you really stop and think about it, decorating a dorm room isn’t that different from filling any other space: It all comes down to the just-right products that can transform even the most ill-lighted, dingy four walls into a chic, relaxing oasis.

Thankfully, most of us at Domino have been through college moving day more than once, and we know what works. From caddies to cappuccino makers, here are the best college dorm room essentials that’ll take a recent high school grad through four years—and beyond. Because there’s nothing more wasteful than tossing everything semester after semester.

Bunk Mate

Good news for any high school grad: Brooklinen’s super-popular bedding bundles—which includes a fitted and flat sheet, duvet cover, and four pillowcases—also come in twin XL, the standard size of most dorm room beds.

Ice, Ice Baby

A retro-leaning mini fridge fits a few cans of LaCroix, late-night study snacks, and definitely no beer.

Daily Grind

All-nighters and early-morning lectures call for a bold cuppa. This teeny espresso maker will look great on a first apartment’s counter, too.   

Reflect on This

Spend as little time in the communal bathroom as possible with a vanity mirror that has a tray for displaying skin care or jewelry.

Test the Waters

A lilac caddy stands out among a sea of basic ones, and in four years, it can store cleaning products under a kitchen sink. 

Smart Storage

Moving spaces every few months can get stressful. Contain everything in these inexpensive—as in $2 each—bags that slide easily under a bed or, on moving day, can be tossed in a car trunk.

Golden Hour

Overhead lighting can be rough, but this TikTok-famous lamp casts a sunset-like glow over any space.

Hit the Floor

A bright and narrow flat-weave rug livens up linoleum while fitting perfectly between two twin beds. Later, use in a first-apartment hallway.

Wash and Go

Maximize a dorm room’s four corners with a hamper that unclips and is easy to transport on laundry day.

Clean Living

An upright vacuum is a no-go in a tight space, but this compact wireless one is small enough to store away in a drawer.