Getting the kids ready for their first semester in college sounds like a daunting task when you don’t know where to start or are not a very organized person. An organized space is essential in every phase of our lives, especially for small-space living, like a dorm room.
Living with my family in a rowhouse has taught me to make the most of our small space. Maximizing the storage in every room and efficiently using the vertical spaces and any potential hidden storage under the beds, couch, etc., has amplified the square footage of the house.
All this knowledge in making a room work for our needs and the ability to transform the challenges spaces into storage solutions can quickly adapt to a dorm room. Check out our kids’ room “makeovers” (girl/boy) to see how we maximized their space to achieve their full potential.
With all that in mind, we created an IKEA must-have dorm room essentials. We hope you can find everything you need in one trip to our favorite store.
IKEA dorm room essentials
DIMPA
This durable and transparent bag is excellent for transporting all the things to college. Think about everything from comforters to clothes and everything in between. It can also be used to store the non-essential items under the bed.
SLÄKT
This twin bed is every parent and kids’ dream. We use them in our kids’ bedroom to maximize the space, and it is the perfect bed for a dorm room. It has lots of storage, allowing you to store clothes, books, sports gear, etc.
MICKE
A desk to work on the endless assignments in the comfort of the dorm room is a must. The Micke desk has a clean and simple look that fits just about anywhere.
LOBERGET / BLYSKÄR
The rolling chair gives mobility to roll around the dorm room, and it is comfortable since the chair is adjustable in height.
RÅSKOG
I haven’t seen a more versatile item to get all the things organized. It is small enough to fit in the smallest of spaces and can be moved to wherever you need it. Use it as extra storage for all your desk accessories, or even use the top for a coffee station.
TILLREDA
Talking about a coffee station, this small refrigerator is perfect for a dorm room. There is nothing like having a beverage or snack in an arm’s reach.
UNDERSÖKA
Save some money and the environment with this leak-proof travel mug for your favorite hot or cold beverage.
IKEA 365+
Keep the body hydrated with a durable bottle. It is ideal for cold water, a refreshing smoothie, or freshly squeezed juice.
STICKAT
Having all those necessary things close at hand when lying in bed is easy with this practical bed pocket.
NÄVLINGE
This glare-free light can be mounted to the wall or clipped to a desk or bed. It is perfect for those late nights of studying.
SVENSÅS
Keep track of classes, appointments, meetings, and parties on the memo board.
TJUSIG
Utilize every space of your dorm room by adding an over-the-door rack with knobs. Keep those towels, jackets, hats, accessories, and shoes out of the floor and your bed!
DIMPA
Would use these recycling bags for recycling and as a hamper for the dirty clothes. It is easy to carry and perfect to take the laundry to the parent’s house on the weekend.
JÄLL
Space is short in dorm rooms, so this drying rack is perfect since it folds flat when it’s not being used.
What do you think of this list we put together with IKEA must-have dorm room essentials? What else would you add to the list?
We partnered with IKEA U.S. in this post. IKEA® is a registered trademark of Inter IKEA Systems B.V. The views, ideas, and opinions expressed here are my own.
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