Mom’s Dorm Room Must Haves

Dorm rooms are small; there’s no way around it. Getting some extra under-the-bed storage opens up more space in a snap.

Adulting tip: Without Mom around to pick up after you, stashing items out of sight is a quick and easy solution to make your space look tidy.

Bed Risers Set of 4 - Espresso - Room Essentials™ ($8)

For photos, notes, and postcards from home, there’s nothing better than a pinnable board. It makes a blank room cozy and personalized.

Adulting up: This is also a perfect place to hang a to-do list so you stay organized (hint, hint).

Modern by Dwell Magazine Felt Pin Board ($60)

College dorm beds are extra long. Don’t ask why — they just are. You need special sheets, and these are soft and comfy even after lots of washes in the communal laundry room.

Adulting tip: Don't forget to separate whites from colors and use fabric softener to keep these extra snuggly.

Jersey Sheet Set - (Twin Extra Long) True White - Room Essentials™ ($18, originally $20)

A bare mattress is pretty unwelcoming, but add sheets and a few pretty pillows for instant warmth.

Adulting tip: The support pillow is great for late-night studying in bed, but you can also use it for better posture during those inevitable binge-watch sessions.

Faux Fur Throw Pillow - Maroon - Room Essentials™ ($19, originally $20) and Support Body Pillow Nighttime Blue - Room Essentials™ ($13, originally $15)

It’s all about floor space, and this rack keeps a closet organized and shoes in shape.

Adulting tip: Keeping your cutest pairs on display will look pretty and make you take better care of them.

2-Tier Shoe Rack - Black/Silver - Room Essentials™ ($13)

Dorm rooms aren’t the place for fine art, but blank walls are not a good look either. Tapestries bring soft texture into a space — and just one will fill the room with color!

Adulting tip: If you spill something on your comforter, this can become a cool bedspread between washes — and you can toss it right in with your sheets and detergent when the time comes. (Every two weeks, please.)

Wall Tapestry (11"x8") Cloudy Turquoise - Room Essentials™ ($13, originally $15)

Leftovers, sodas, and perishable snacks need to stay cool so you can grab them during study sessions.

Adulting tip: Get yourself some fruits and veggies so there's always something fresh and healthy to nibble on. This one has a little freezer for ice cream, too — now there's no need to go out late at night and make your parents worry!

Whirlpool 2.7 Cu. Ft. Mini Refrigerator - Stainless Steel ($110)

If there’s room, it’s nice to have something to sit on besides a standard-issue desk chair and that extralong twin bed. One plush seat will turn a dorm room into your room.

Adulting tip: This extra chair can quickly become a dumping ground for dirty clothes or outfit discards. Remember to use that laundry bag, hang things so they don't get wrinkled, and keep your seat free for sitting.

Quilted Dish Chair Liberty Blue - Room Essentials™ ($28)

Sometimes you’ll want some real food that doesn’t come with packaging, and you need one little set of dishes to contain it.

Adulting tip: A bowl and a spoon can help you eat just about anything. And if you haven’t started drinking coffee yet, college is the right time.

Livingware Winter Frost 16-Piece Dinnerware Set White ($27), RE Teagan Spoon ($1), and RE Coffee Mug 16-Ounce - Green ($4)

Reality check: A dorm room comes with one industrial light on the ceiling. Extra lighting makes a room brighter and homier.

Adulting tip: Adjust the settings on these two lamps to change the vibe from dank to swank. And remember to keep it bright enough when reading.

5 Head Floor Lamp Blue - Room Essentials™ ($30) and Stick Table Lamp - Room Essentials™ ($20)

Shared dorm bathrooms don’t usually have full-length mirrors, and if they do, they’ll be crowded. Get your own mirror and survey your outfit in private.

Adulting tip: Your busy schedule won't always allow for all the morning outfit changes. When in doubt, just reach for favorite pieces and wear them with confidence.

Over the Door Mirror Black - Room Essentials™ ($15)

Your cords won’t be able to reach all of the outlets, especially if you’re in an older dorm. You’ll need this — trust us.

Adulting tip: Sure, you can run to the store when a bulb burns out, but keeping a box handy means you can continue whatever you're doing without interruption. Whether for your lamp or your roommate's, being prepared might just save the day.

LED 60W LED SW Aline 4-Pack ($23) and 15 EX Cord White ($4)

Bringing big furniture into a dorm room doesn’t make sense, but this floor pillow can make guests comfortable and provide an alternate sitting spot for roommates too!

Adulting tip: Remember to vacuum or sweep your floor regularly so your rooms looks nice for spontaneous hangouts.

Modern by Dwell Magazine Triangle Stitched Floor Pillow ($35)

Head to Target with your teenager for dorm room essentials and you're guaranteed to put a smile on their face! Shop now!