30 Target Dorm Room Essentials to Buy Stat
Reasons include: This adorable under-$40 mini fridge.
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A dorm room shopping checklist is an overwhelming task. It calls for some highly specific items (think: Twin XL-sized bedding, communal bathroom-friendly shower gear, portable laundry hampers). But buying all these single-use products can feel a little wasteful—not to mention, pricey. That's where Target comes in.
When it comes to affordability, the retailer has your wallet covered, but it's also a great resource for finding chic products that'll work for your dorm years and beyond. There's the luxe cotton sheet set that comes in a timeless green and white pattern, designed to last for many seasons. There's the tiny coffee machine that fits neatly atop a mini fridge that you'll want to hold onto for your first apartment. There's the lap desk you'll use to write term papers from bed for now and when working remotely at internships and jobs in the future.
In other words: If you're looking for dorm room essentials that don't look too, well, dorm-y, we've got you covered. These 30 picks are both cute and practical, and will help you kick off the school year in style:
First of all, the basics: You'll need a sheet set that actually fits your new bed. Skip the synthetic microfiber in favor of something a bit more upscale, like Threshold's 400-thread-count cotton sheets, which are wrinkle-resistant and make a great low-maintenance pick.
Dorm rooms aren't famed for their square footage. Add this rolling pouf trio to your cart for extra seating in a cramped room, and thank us later.
If your dorm has a strict no-candle policy, a few spritzes of a peppermint, sage, or basil essential oil blend makes for just as fragrant a refresh.
Because in college, good sleep is more important than ever. This best-seller includes a super breathable cover that regulates airflow while you snooze.
Squeeze more wardrobe storage into your room by making use of every nook and cranny—including under the bed, where this lidded bag can slide in and hold all your bulkiest clothing.
Ensure there's always a chilled La Croix within reach with this bright red fridge, which comes with a carrying handle so you can take it with you to the quad.
Take your photo-capturing skills analog with a Polaroid—your phone storage will thank you.
You'll want to wrap yourself up in this cozy cotton set all winter long. The quilt is made to fit a Twin XL bed, and looks great with both simple white sheets and bolder hues.
If ever there was a time for staying on top of your schedule, college is it: Willow Creek's chic pink planner has room for everything from your weekly schedule to your homework to-do list.
For those rainy days where a trip to the library isn't happening, study from your bed with this bean-filled lap desk.
Not only is this sleek desk lamp a minimalist-friendly accent, but it also comes with a USB port so you can charge your phone while you work.
There's nothing about a pre-used mattress that's particularly alluring. A mattress pad both protects the bed and brings some much-needed comfort.
The fastest way to personalize a white-box dorm room: Hang up your favorite prints and photos in the form of a gallery wall. This set of six different-sized frames makes it easy to DIY your own collection.
Ditch the harsh fluorescent lighting in favor of a softer glow with these LED string lights.
Have your own bathroom? Lucky you! Zhuzh up a cold, tiled bathroom floor with a vibrant little bath mat. (Psst: This one's machine-washable.)
This minimalist-friendly piece gives futons a good name. It'll come in handy when your high school friends visit for the weekend, and at under $400, it won't break the bank, either.
A virtual assistant and a Bluetooth speaker, all rolled into one tiny sphere. It comes in five colors, so you can pick the one that best matches your aesthetic.
Hang notes and reminders on this mini display board, which doubles as wall decor thanks to its cute checkerboard pattern.
Treat yourself to a little luxury in the form of a new towel set. We love that this ribbed design dries quickly and comes in a rainbow of pretty colors, like aqua and burnt orange.
Your caffeine addiction is about to look very chic. This mug is suitable for both hot and cold drinks, is dishwasher- and microwave-safe, and is generally the perfect vessel for sipping morning (and afternoon) cups of coffee.
Elly Leavitt is a fashion and luxury commerce editor with over seven years of experience covering fashion and design. Her writing can be found in Harper’s BAZAAR, ELLE, Town & Country, Esquire, ELLE Decor, and more. Previously, she was an editor at Domino magazine. You can probably find her in line at Trader Joe's. You will never find her at SoulCycle.
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