Last summer while I shopped for my first year of college, I was all over the internet looking for lists of things to get and things not to get. I have learned quite a few things about college essentials in the past year. Here are just a few of the things you definitely need to put on your list.
1. Soft blanket
This is so, so important. You definitely want to make your bed every morning because you never know who will be over that day. (College is usually full of last minute decisions). So having a blanket to cuddle up in instead of using your duvet while doing homework or watching Netflix is essential. The softer the better.
2. Power strips
There are only so many outlets in a room and there are so many chords you will have. Your chargers and lamps and refrigerator and microwave all need an outlet. Power strips will save your life and offer a little more extension for your chords.
3. Shower shoes
PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE bring these. Especially if you have communal bathrooms. The last thing you want is to stand in the shower with all the germs from all the other people on your floor in your room. Don't go barefoot, just don't ever do it.
4. Toothbrush cover
Getting a cap for your toothbrush will save you the stress of trying to keep your toothbrush clean when going to the bathroom. You can put the cap on when you are done or not using it and be able to set it down somewhere without the fear of germs while you finish getting ready.
5. Container for snacks
A messy dorm room can make the room feel even smaller, and dorms are small enough already. Snacks in the room are important for when you are on the go or in the middle of a study session. Having a container for all those snacks and keeping everything organized will help your room feel much more clean.
6. Reusable water bottle
Buying the plastic water bottles will get expensive and isn't good for the environment. Having a reusable water bottle is so much easier and convenient and you will always have it on you.
7. Under the bed storage
There are going to be many cleaning supplies, extra toiletries, and many other little things that you won't be using on the daily. In order to keep those things a little more organized, under the bed storage bins provide the space you need to keep those things hidden until you need to use them again.
8. Over the door hook rack
These hooks are easily hooked over your door so that you can hang scarves and coats and umbrellas and just about anything else you'd like to hang. This will also help your room feel less cluttered and give you a sense of being very organized.
Hope this helps all you incoming freshmen as you start your journey through college!