Move-in day is stressful enough without spending money on dorm gear you'll never use.These 13 dorm essentials are designed to stay useful well beyond freshman year, from a lightweight stick vacuum and compact air purifier to a storage ottoman that doubles as extra seating.
With prices starting at just $11, each pick earns its place in a small space long after the first day of school.The Hatch gently wakes you up and helps you fall asleep.(Amazon)Make early mornings a little easier with the Hatch Restore 3.
Instead of a harsh phone alarm, it uses a gradual sunrise light and gentle sounds to help wake you up.It also doubles as a white noise machine and reading light.This backpack fits a 17-inch laptop plus everyday gear.
(Kipling)Kipling's Dyana backpack has room for a 17-inch laptop, water bottle and other daily essentials, with multiple compartments to help keep everything organized.The lightweight design is built for carrying a full course load, and it pairs with Kipling's matching lunch bach and insulated pouch.Original price: $29.99This stackable rack clears the dorm floor.
(The Container Store)Dorm floor space fills up quickly, and this four-tier shoe rack from The Container Store keeps it organized.It holds up to 16 pairs of shoes, while the adjustable shelves let you customize the fit for a closet, entryway or the space beneath a lofted bed.Original price: $109.99Fit this slim single-serve brewer into tight kitchen spaces.
(Amazon)The Keurig K-Mini Mate Plus brews single cups in three sizes while taking up less than five inches of counter space.Its slim design is ideal for cramped dorm kitchens, and the removable water reservoir makes refilling at a shared sink quick and easy.READ MORE: These school supplies are cheaper online than in stores — Amazon, Best Buy and moreStore this vacuum in a closet corner.
(Amazon)For first apartments or tight dorm rooms, Bissell’s Featherweight vacuum makes it easy to keep small spaces clean without taking up much ...