32 Essential Dorm Room Items Available on Amazon Now
We've also made every effort to ensure all of the items on this list work for someone on a college budget, so most of these products cost less than $100 -- save for a few things like a waterproof speaker and gigantic throw blanket that are worth the splurge. That means you won't have to spend all of your hard-earned summer money on these wish list items. Also, the majority of the products are available with quick Amazon Prime shipping, so even if you're ordering at the last minute, they should arrive by the time move-in day rolls around. (If you don't have a Prime subscription, now might be the time to sign up for a free trial.)
Amazon dorm room essentials under $25
Space-saving hangers
Most dorm room closets aren't exactly spacious, so these space-saving hangers -- each capable of holding nine garments -- are a game-changer. The rotating hooks let you hang garments horizontally for drying and vertically for maximizing space. They're one of those things you never knew you needed, then you can't function without them. If your parents are concerned about the number of suitcases you're bringing on move-in day, these are for you.
$14 at Amazon
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Hanging photo display
Being away from home (especially for the first time) can be a big adjustment. Filling your dorm room with photos of your loved ones is a great way to feel connected to your family and friends and also decorate your dorm room. This hanging display is easy to put up, holds 24 photos total (between two strands) and will go well with any other decor you choose for your space. It's also easy to swap out pictures on the little clips so you can update the photos as you make new memories.
$10 at Amazon
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Clip-on light
If you're a night owl but don't want to have to turn on bright overhead lights or disturb a roommate at night, then this clip-on light may be just the thing you need. It can clip onto your headboard or desk and provide enough light for any late-night studying or social media scrolling. It's battery-operated, so it doesn't come with any pesky cords either.
$15 at Amazon
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Portable shower caddy tote
The shower caddy is a small but mighty addition to the dorm room shopping list. Students can stock it with their favorite products and haul it to and fro. (OK, just to the bathroom and back.) This one has plenty of room for shampoo, lotion and other toiletries. Bonus: Color combos include teal and orange, navy and mustard, or the more subdued solid apricot or gray.
$16 at Amazon
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Bedside storage caddy
Space is tight in most dorm rooms, and a night stand is a luxury only few are given. A storage caddy that hangs on the side of your bed allows you to use your laptop, read and snack before bed without the inconvenience of getting up and putting everything away. Now you can do it all without ever leaving your bed.
$15 at Amazon
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Long charging cable
Outlets can be a scarcity in dorm rooms and there's nothing worse than not keeping your phone nearby while it's charging. Speaking from personal experience, having to sit near the nearest outlet while your phone is charging, rather than comfortably scrolling in bed, is awful. Long phone chargers fix the obstacles that lofted dorm beds and limited outlets raise.
$7 at Amazon
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Vanity desk mirror
The most important thing to do when setting up your dorm is to be sure you're making the most of an often small space. A desk vanity mirror was a lifesaver for me when I was living in my college dorm. A small vanity mirror is perfect for doing your makeup or hair without having to use a bathroom mirror.
$17 at Amazon
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Hossejoy wood adjustable desktop storage organizer
Dorm rooms are notoriously narrow, which is why vertical storage is so important. This affordable desktop organizer will maximize your space and help keep your desk neat and tidy. It's easy to assemble, and it can be set up in varying shapes and lengths, in case you'd rather use it on a dresser or countertop. It comes in both black and white.
$24 at Amazon
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Amazon dorm room essentials under $50
Wheat straw dinnerware set
Even if you're on a meal plan and eating most of your meals in the dining hall, chances are you'll also order takeout or whip something up yourself -- at least once in a while. That's where this wheat straw dinnerware set will come in handy. It's microwave- and dishwasher-safe, lightweight and durable -- plus you'll appreciate not having to use paper plates while eating dinner on your bed. It comes with four plates, bowls, cups and sets of silverware, so you can share with your roommate and friends.
$37 at Amazon
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Handheld vacuum
Crumbs will hate to see you coming with this powerful, cordless handheld vacuum. You'll thank yourself later when mystery floor fuzz, hair or chunks of cookie magically appear on your floor. It comes with multiple attachments, has a long-lasting battery, a washable reusable filter and weighs under 2 pounds, which is ideal for dorm life. It'll easily tuck away in a closet until that next mess comes along.
$39 at Amazon
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SunnyPoint 3-tier rolling metal storage organizer Storage is tough to come by in a dorm room setting, so this three-tiered storage cart is a great way to make the most of a little extra space. It may even fit underneath a dorm desk. The fact that it rolls is a big perk too. The possibilities are endless when it comes to what you can to store in it: Think clothing, toiletries, cleaning supplies, text books or even plants if that's your style.
$44 at Amazon
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mDesign slim metal trash can
Dorm rooms often come equipped with a trash can, but it's usually the plastic variety without a lid. Chances are it'll start stinking a few months into the school year, especially if you throw away food. That's where this mDesign metal trash can comes in handy. The sleek trash can is perfect for a dorm room setting due to its compact size, durable construction and lid that has a step pedal for hands-free opening. It may not be the most glamorous dorm room purchase, but you'll be happy to have it.
$27 at Amazon
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A Nice Night faux fur reading pillow
Chances are you'll be doing a lot of studying in your dorm room, and a reading pillow can make your time spent on schoolwork much more comfortable. Ditch the old office chair in favor of using this faux fur pillow on your bed, or the couch or floor, for that matter. Plus it's light enough that you could lug it anywhere. Plus, your back and neck will appreciate all the support. This faux fur reading pillow also comes in over 15 colors, so you can choose the one that best fits your dorm decor.
$38 at Amazon
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Mengersi Cow twin XL sheets
An inconvenient fact about dorm beds: They are generally twin XL size, which means normal twin sheets won't fit. This cotton-blend set conforms to dorm sizing, and as an added bonus, it comes in a trendy cow print. Other prints, including plain gray and blue butterfly, are also available. The three-piece set includes a fitted sheet, flat sheet and pillowcase.
$30 at Amazon
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Reef Water Court sandals
A pair of shower sandals is a staple of dorm living. This Reef pair goes above and beyond: They've got traction to prevent slipping and they're nice enough to wear outside the bathroom. Quality construction means your Water Court sandals will last beyond dorm life. Available in black, olive, pink and white on Amazon. $34 at Amazon
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Linenspa Gel Infused Memory Foam Mattress Topper, Twin XL
Dorm mattresses are unbearably uncomfortable, and this mattress topper is exactly what dorm dwellers need to transform a sleeping experience. Two inches of memory foam add extra cushioning and provide pressure relief. Plus, cooling gel beads help regulate body temperature at night. Be sure to buy a twin XL since that's the standard size mattress for most dorm rooms and residence halls.
$43 at Amazon
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Amazon Echo Dot (5th Gen) smart speaker
The Amazon Echo Dot is a helpful addition to any dorm room. Students can ask Amazon's smart assistant Alexa about the weather, create shopping lists, set alarms for class and more. The Echo Dot also boasts a quality speaker and connects to smart devices. $32 at Amazon
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MCleanPin laundry hamper
Spare future roommates from stumbling on your dirty socks. A clothes hamper is a must-buy when it comes to dorm living because everyone needs to collect their laundry. This one is great because it comes with two removable bags, genius for rotating out laundry loads. The handles and lid are helpful, too.
$30 at Amazon
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Amazon Basics 5-piece bedding set
This set from Amazon Basics contains everything needed to make up a dorm bed. Comforter, sheets, sham and pillowcase, conveniently sized in Twin XL. The coral medallion print is particularly nice, but if that's not your style, there are 10 additional colors. Bonus: The set is Made in Green by Oeko-Tex, which means it meets environmental standards.
$37 at Amazon
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Uber Appliance Mini fridge
A tiny fridge is incredibly convenient to have on hand. College students will love keeping beverages, food and skincare cool in their own fridge. This one from Uber Appliance has a removable shelf and holds up to six cans or four bottles of water. It comes in red, silver, blue, white or black. $45 at Amazon
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Richards Homewares underbed storage
Even if you have to raise your bed, maximizing dorm room space with under-bed storage is a great idea. This set of drawers makes perfect use of that empty space. Each molded plastic drawer has a lid and slides out of the metal frame for convenient access.
$40 at Amazon
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Huanuo Lap Desk
Most dorm rooms are have a limited amount of space for studying. While it's great to be able to work from your desk, sometimes that can get old pretty quickly. Buying a laptop desk allows you to work from anywhere in your dorm.
$37 at Amazon
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Homedics Sound Spa
Whether your roommate snores or your neighbors are late-night partiers, dorm life is loud. So if you don't want to spend the night tossing and turning, a white noise machine can make all the difference in the world. The Homedics Sound Spa is our top pick for the best white noise machine overall, and for good reason: It's inexpensive, portable and it plays six calming nature and sleep sounds.
$21 at Amazon
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Brita water filter pitcher
When you're locked in your dorm studying (or coming back from a night out) there's nothing better than a refreshing glass of water. Avoid drinking unfiltered potentially contaminated tap water by using a Brita. Simply fill your Brita with sink water and either put it in your fridge or leave it out on your desk and you're set.
$31 at Amazon
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Dorm room essentials under $100
Herschel Novel Duffle
College life is great, but you also need a weekend escape here and there -- whether it's exploring a new place, visiting friends or heading home to see if your parents will do your laundry. In any case, you'll want a durable, spacious duffle bag when you travel. You can't go wrong with the Herschel Novel duffle: It's sleek, spacious, durable and eco-friendly (made from 100% recycled post-consumer water bottles). It comes in 8 colors, so you're bound to find one that fits your style.
$95 at Amazon
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Ruggable rug in Absida Sage
Even a 2x3-foot rug can work wonders in a dorm room, both for decor and comfort. Ruggable's fun rainbow prints liven up even drab spaces. And even better, Ruggable rugs are stain- and water-resistant and can be washed in any laundry facility. Spills? No problem. Peel the top layer from the rug pad and just toss it in the wash.
$99 at Amazon
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Americanflat Over the Door Mirror
Getting ready for a night out and need to see the whole fit? Having a full-length mirror eliminates the struggle that comes along with not having a bathroom of your own. A full-length mirror that hangs over your door is the best, most convenient way to test out different outfits and get ready for a night out.
$50 at Amazon
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Vornado VFAN Jr. Vintage Air Circulator Fan
Most dorms don't have AC, which means they can get uncomfortably stuffy in the fall and spring. The solution? Vornado fans, which have a reputation for being powerful and reliable. This stylish table fan is small enough to stow away but big enough to circulate all the air in your room. Bonus points for the neat vintage vibe.
$60 at Amazon
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Dorm room essentials under $200
Soundcore Boom 2
A waterproof speaker may not have been on your dorm room wish list, but hear us out. You can take it in the shower, blast tunes in your dorm room, bring it to a pool party or beach day... the list goes on. It can play for 24 hours on a single charge and you can even connect more speakers to really elevate party (or, you know the study session). We also appreciate that it's also compact enough that you can throw it in your backpack and head out.
$130 at Amazon
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Big Blanket Co. giant throw blanket
This blanket has room for everyone. Big Blanket Co. makes huge blankets (100 square feet of blanket) so the whole crew can cozy up for movie night or picnics in the quad. Whatever the occasion, your college newbie will be ready for friends. Bonus: Despite its size, you can still toss this blanket in a standard washing machine. $179 at Amazon
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Blueair Blue Pure 511 Auto air purifier
Blueair makes a dorm-size air filter that removes 99.97% of harmful particles, and the carbon filter helps trap nasty odors like smelly socks and stale pizza, so it could be a smart dorm room purchase. This Blue Pure 511 covers rooms up to 432 square feet (other models also available), filtering out smells, smoke, pollen, allergens and other irritants. It even has an indicator light that shows air quality status.
$89 at Amazon
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JBL Live Pro 2 noise-canceling earbuds
This AirPods Pro alternative will help students avoid the daily dorm racket with active noise cancellation technology. Bonus: A pair of JBL Live Pro 2 earbuds boasts a budget-friendly price at about $100 less the AirPods Pro. Read CNET's guide to the best noise-canceling true wireless earbuds for 2024 for more info on our picks.
$150 at Amazon
$105 at Walmart
$150 at B&H Photo-Video
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