6 Ways to Master Dorm Organization
With summer ending, college move-ins are just around the corner! There is still time to prep and consider how to pack, what to bring, and what can wait. There are so many thoughts and a lot to consider when going through this process, so we wanted to make the initial stage a bit easier for you by sharing our guide to dorm move-ins. For our advice on creating an ideal dorm space, be sure to read our go-to tips below :)
1: Create a grab and go command center. This can be a pouch, bag, or small bin of all essential, emergency items that you might need in a pinch! This is the kind of inventory you want quick access to, that you can grab as you run out the door whenever you may need it. You grab and go stash may look like money, chargers, a flashlight, medicine, tweezers, first aid, nail clippers, or whatever you reach for often or would need on-the-go, just in case! We’ve linked a few pouches, bags, and containers we love for this area.
2: Maximize your storage opportunities. We all know how limiting dorm rooms can be for storage space and all of the belongings you need in college. This is a great opportunity to maximize the space you have with a few small space hacks we use all the time! Oftentimes in small spaces it is helpful to utilize vertical space. To add storage, over-the-door racks can be extremely helpful. It is also common for dorm beds to be higher than most, so utilizing that under the bed storage is key. Whether it's stacking bins, using baskets, or tucking shelves under your bed, you can add so much storage to your dorm by taking advantage of the space under the bed. Another helpful tip is vertical shelving. Mini fridges are common to take to college, and having shelving above the fridge for kitchen storage or elsewhere is a great way to bring more space into a limited area. One other fashionable way to increase storage is with an ottoman that can double as a table or bench in your dorm room. Below you’ll find our top picks for storage in dorm rooms!
3: Organize while you pack. Use specific bags, packing cubes, or a means of separating specific categories of items to make the unpacking and moving process easier on yourself. Being minimal is the key to success in dorm-style living. The initial move is about bringing only what you need for the first quarter or semester, rather than the full year. Don’t forget to communicate about what you and your roommate are each bringing as well to avoid having duplicates and excess stuff in your room. Imagine getting to college with two fridges or two microwaves… Now that is something we want to avoid! Communication is key in the college move-in process, and will help create a seamless transition for everyone involved :) Below we’ve linked our favorite packing organizers.
4: Use a rolling cart as a side table. Dorm beds tend to be lifted off of the ground quite a bit for under bed storage, which means a tall side table is key. Using a three-tier cart as a side table is great for its mobility and also its storage opportunities. You can keep essentials on top and medicine or other items you want easy access to on lower shelves. Below are a few different styles of rolling carts that offer a variety of storage opportunities.
5: Double your closet space. Those tiny dorm closets just don't cut it sometimes. You can easily add a second rod that attaches to the original rod to double your hanging space. You can also utilize stacking shoe bins or shelves for extra storage in your closet. This way, you will be maximizing all of the vertical space you have and using your space to its fullest potential.
6: Start small and add to your inventory if needed. In such a small space, it can be helpful to start your move off with the absolute necessities, and slowly bring in other items if you decide you really want to have them with you. Decide what your absolute essentials are first, and go from there. Remember: Things can always be added or ordered from Amazon :) Less is more when it comes to moving into a small space. This will help you avoid the feeling of being overwhelmed when moving in, and will make sure you have space for all of your items.
We wish you all a smooth transition into college life, and hope this guide to dorm move-ins helps ease you through the process! If you want more tips on dorm life and how to set up your space, read our blog post about How to Send Your Child Off to College the Right Way and check out our Dorm Organization list on our Amazon Storefront! Make sure to download our College Dorm Packing List to make for an efficient packing process!