Hooray for college — you have freedom and a place to call your own. But now you’re faced with the daunting task of decorating a dorm! From specific items to helpful insights, we’ve gathered the top 25 resources for rocking out your dorm space.
- IKEA: Every young person’s home-decorating haven for affordable, practical furniture.
- Craigslist Free Section: Savvy college kids have been known to decorate entire houses with quirky items found here, ranging from vintage furniture to wide-screen movie projectors.
- The Green Dorm: All the essentials you need to make your dorm eco-friendly.
- The Suitcase Dorm: If you happen to be abroad for the semester, check out this helpful article on the art of decorating out of a suitcase.
- Dorm 411: All things dorm-related, from shopping and packing to moving in.
- Target: Boasting both physical and online stores, this superstore is a great dorm decorating stop. One of our favorite picks is the laundry drying rack — because sometimes it’s nice to go a little green and let your clothes air dry.
- Bike On!: Depending on your campus’ layout, you may want to invest in a bike. Many campuses even offer bike-shares.But beware, bike theft can be a problem. Before you take your new ride out for a spin, consult this article for tips on buying an appropriate lock.
- Etsy: For do-it-yourself advice from chic, young and urban artists, check out this pieceabout adding craft touch to your new abode.
- Appliances: Maybe you can’t bring Mom and Dad’s flat-screen TV, but here are some electronics that will make the stay away from home a whole lot sweeter.
- Headphones: A really awesome pair of noise-blocking headphones can be an invaluable dorm accessory. Many models exist, like this reasonably-priced pair featured on Amazon.
- Fan: Depending on how old your dorm is, you may need a fan to get some circulation going in your room during the early fall and late spring months.
- Dorm Room Décor for Non-Design Majors by Lauren Joffee!: This article breaks it down for the decorating-challenged.
- Wall Ware: As Lauren suggests in the above article, when putting anything up on your wall, investigate what kind of wall you’re dealing with, and don’t leave home without some sticky putty. Check out this guide to hanging postersand this high quality sticky putty.
- Desk Calendar: Found at any major office supply store, these desk accessories are a great way to keep track of your busy schedule.
- Dry Erase Board: College students love to leave and receive messages in written form, so get in on the fun! This model leaves space to customize your board with your favorite photos.
- Night Light: You can find these handy fixtures everywhere from art stores to large chains. This is our favorite light for all you girly-girls out there.
- Second-hand and Antique Stores: If you want to add character and a bit of color to your dorm without dropping piles of money, try picking up some vintage stuff at an antique store. Find one close to home with this handy tool.
- Bodum: Throw the pot out the window and say hello to (near) instant hot water. See what this blogger has to say about the classic kettle model.
- Micro-Mini-Fridge: Most rooms come equipped with these appliances, but if not, you may want to consider purchasing one.
- Extra-long Sheets: Because it is actually important to change your sheets! Check out this selection of bedding essentials.
- Mattress Pads / Bed Foam: Dorm mattresses aren’t exactly know for being well-maintained, so if you need a plush place to lay your head at night look into getting either mattress padding or bed foam.
- Decorative Lights: Spruce up the drabbest of rooms with some festive lighting, like these Chinese lanterns or Christmas lights.
- Over-the-Door Hangers: These babies can save you space and help protect your walls from nails and hooks.
- College Life - Cheap Dorm Room Decorating Ideas by Susan Johnston: This is a great piece on living cheaply in college. It offers advice both classic and innovative—like hanging “sheer fabric across the window or over a bed” to create “a soft, romantic look.”
- And For Laughs: When your roommate hasn’t washed her dishes or you’re low on money and need to do your laundry, here’s a little college, dorm-living humor to raise your spirits.
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