College is a time for learning and excitement, but living in a dorm can be challenging. Not only do you usually have to live with at least one other student, but you also have to deal with very limited space. But there's no reason any of that should stop you from making a beautiful home in your new dorm room. From storage hacks to decor tips, here's how to make the most of your college living experience.
Use Magic Hangers to Store More in Your Closet
Let's be honest; dorm room closets need to be ten times bigger than they are. But unfortunately, that's never going to happen, so most students just have to work with what they've got and find solutions to this problem. And one of the best ways of doing this is by investing in some magic hangers. After all, hangers can take up a huge amount of unnecessary space in your closet if you're not careful.
These magic hangers allow you to hang multiple garments on one single hook, and they can even be turned around to fit a specific space. Yes, they truly are magical.
Install a Kitchen Underneath Your Bunk Bed for an Extra Perk
There are many dorm rooms across the world that offer their students a bunk bed. And while some people hate the idea of sleeping so high up, this style of vertical living can actually work wonders if you have limited space. By offering you more room on the floor, a bunk bed can help you designate certain areas of your dorm room. You could even make your own kitchen area if you wanted to!
Of course, you don't have to install a sink or a full-size refrigerator. But by placing your basic necessities and appliances on a cabinet, you can at least make yourself a decent coffee in the morning.
Organize Your Cluttered Wires With Binder Clips
If you're looking for an affordable dorm hack, then look no further. After all, most parents will send their kids back to school with oodles of stationery with them - and that may include a few extra binder clips. But instead of throwing them in the trash or lending them to another student, it might be a good idea to use these extra binder clips to organize the many wires you have around your desk.
Using binder clips to organize your desk won't necessarily solve your problem of limited space, but it'll at least make it look less cluttered - which can often make a space look much bigger.
Stick a Dryer Sheet to Your Fan to Make Your Dorm Smell Good
When you're at home, you might constantly burn candles or incense to make your room smell delightful. But almost all colleges ban such items, which means that you have to just deal with the stench of your roommate's late-night food order, right? Well, not quite. A dorm hack everyone needs to know involves dryer sheets - which is something your mom has probably given you to take back to school with you, anyway.
By attaching these dryer sheets to a fan, you can add fresh and fragrant smells to your dorm room in an instant. Plus, you won't get in trouble with your RA.
Use a Magnet Board to Keep Your Makeup Safe and Organized
When you're living in a dorm, you have to deal with the fact that someone else is sharing your space. And while you're both supposed to have your designated halves of the room, it's inevitable that some of your belongings are going to end up on the other side of the room at some point. But if you don't want to lose your favorite makeup in the chaos of dorm life, why don't you use a magnet board?
By glueing strong magnets to your makeup, you can then keep them safe by sticking them to a much larger magnet board. Plus, the end result looks pretty cool, right?
Make a DIY Charging Station to Keep All Your Electronics Organized
When you're a student at college, you need a lot of electronics. From laptops to tablets and cell phones, it's fair to say that you'll spend a huge amount of your time charging these items so they're full of juice for a day of studying. But when you only have limited space to work with, charging all of these items can take up your whole dorm room! There's a hack for that, though.
It's super easy to make your own DIY charging station, and you can do this by buying a magazine rack - or taking apart an old shoe rack! Whatever you do, this will help you keep all of your charging electronics in one place.
Buy Over-The-Fridge Cloth Shelves for Convenient Storage
Anyone who has ever been a student and lived in a dorm room will know that the main problem is space. With limited space to work with, it can feel impossible to live a normal life without seeing clutter everywhere. But there are some affordable options out there to make dorm life easier - and over-the-fridge shelves are one of them. These fabric shelves hang over your mini fridge and offer countless pockets and storage options for your things.
By keeping all of your kitchen things contained in this one caddy, you can be sure that this dorm hack will keep everything in place and looking way less cluttered.
Mount Shelves Above Your Bed for Extra Storage
While it's easy to shove things under your bed, many students forget about some prime real estate that's right above their heads. Yes, the space above your bed in your dorm room could be the perfect spot to store some of your belongings and keep them off the floor. All you have to do is mount some shelves above your bed and fill them up with your school books, plants, or even your spare bedding.
Not only is this a great storage solution for those with limited space, but it can also look pretty cool if you choose the right shelves and accessories. In fact, this dorm room looks so cozy!
Use a Bed Skirt to Cover up Under-The-Bed Storage
If you're heading to college for your first year or heading back to school for your second or third year, under-the-bed storage will be your saving grace. There's a whole bunch of space under the bed that's often unused, and when you're dealing with the limited space of a dorm room, you should use every inch offered to you. But using the underneath of your bed as storage can be pretty ugly, so you might want to cover it up.
Nobody wants to see the clutter underneath your bed, but a bed skirt can cover it up instantly. Plus, you can use this as a way to soften your dorm room and add a pop of color.
Use an Old Hanger and Curtain Rings to Hang Anything From Tank Tops to Scarves
If you're someone who can't leave the house without adding a scarf to your outfit, then you're probably going to want to take countless scarves to college. And while there's nothing wrong with that, anyone who has tried to store scarves will know that it's difficult. But this affordable dorm hack can save you some money, as you can make a DIY scarf holder using an old clothes hanger and some old shower curtain rings.
By draping the scarves through the curtain rings and then hanging the curtain rings on the clothes hanger, you have an instant scarf organizer. And if you don't have scarves, that's fine - you can use this trick for pretty much any thin clothing item. Plus, this can then be hung on the back of your door, out of the way.
Use a Dorm Hutch to Increase Desk Size and Storage Space
Many dorm rooms come complete with the basic necessities that any student needs, including a bed, a desk, and a chair. But these things are normally very basic, which means that there's a huge amount of room for personalization. And if you want to increase your desk size and increase storage space, a desk hutch could be an affordable option that offers you both of those things. After all, they're not too expensive at all.
This desk hutch simply sits on top of your desk, meaning you can store your books or photo frames on it. This way, you can save your actual desk for schoolwork.
Buy a Bedside Pocket to Keep Essentials Handy
Without a living room or designated chill space, dorm rooms are normally dominated by the bed. Because of this, so many students spend most of their college years working and hanging out on their beds. And one of the best ways to incorporate extra storage in this limited space is to keep your things handy in a bedside pocket - sometimes called a bedside caddy. Yes, this is perfect for your phone, your tablet, books, and more.
These bedside pockets don't need to be attached to anything. They simply slip under your mattress and hang down the side by themselves. And it really is as simple as that.
To Make More Space in Your Drawers, Roll up Your Clothes
Trying to fit a large closet's worth of clothes into a small dorm room closet can be hard, which is why it's always a good idea to take a dresser with you, too. But if you're still finding that the limited space just isn't working for you, you might want to ditch folding your clothes completely. No, that doesn't mean that you can just crumple them up and stuff them into the drawer!
Instead, you should roll your clothes to make more space. By doing this, you should be able to fit so much more into your drawers without even really trying too hard.
Use Hanging Closet Organizers for Extra Space in an Instant - And They're Easy to Store Over the Summer!
When you fill up your college closet, you start a new chapter. With all of your clothes at your new school, you know there's no turning back. And while that's pretty exciting, it can also be pretty annoying when your closet is a fraction of the size of your one at home. But the problem with most people is that they focus on filling a closet horizontally - and they fail to make use of the vertical space.
By using hanging closet organizers, you can use space that's normally left unused for all of your clothes. And you'll find that you'll be able to fit so much more in.
Completely Upgrade Your Room by Hanging a Tapestry on the Wall
Let's be honest; college can be stressful. Although it's one of the most exciting times of your life, it's always one of the busiest - and it can often be hard to juggle school work, employment, and your social life. Because of this, it's always a good idea to make your dorm room a zen space where you can chill out and unwind after the day. And what better way to do that than with a tapestry?
By hanging a wall tapestry, you can instantly create a calm and cozy sanctuary that also adds some color and pattern into the mix. Plus, it looks pretty cool, right?
Make Use of Over-The-Door Storage Solutions and Use It for More Than Just Towels
When you're a student, you collect a lot of things. From school books to mementos from the party the night before, you often want to keep hold of those things - but you just don't have anywhere to put them. After all, dorm rooms aren't big! But there are some nifty dorm hacks out there that make the most out of this limited space, and it's all about using the space you wouldn't normally think of.
The back of your door is a prime spot for extra storage, but many people forget about it. So, why not make use of some over-the-door storage solutions like this one?
Use Cabinets to Maximize Your Under-The-Bed Storage Options
When students have limited space to work with in a dorm room, this can result in a messy and cluttered space that just adds to the stress of college. But it doesn't have to be that one. One dorm hack we love is making use of storage units underneath the bed - and you can do this even if you don't have a bunk bed. By lifting up your bed frame and slotting units underneath, you could solve that problem in seconds.
By doing this, you maximize the storage space you have while also maximizing the floor space you have. And when you have this, your small dorm room will look so much bigger!
Use Mini-Stack Shelves to Organize Under Your Sink
If you're lucky enough to have a bathroom in your dorm room, it's important that you keep this space clean and tidy. Bathrooms can quickly become dirty, and they often become a dumping ground for all of the things you don't want. But if you don't know where to start, why don't you start with under the sink? Although this is a notoriously small space, adding some mini-stack shelves into the mix can really help you out.
These shelves will help you organize everything from your cleaning products to your makeup and your skincare, and you'll be able to fit so much more into this limited space.
Place Ottomans Under Your Desk for Extra Storage and Seating
One thing we've learned about dorm hacks is that they mostly all revolve around storage. That's because dorm rooms offer limited space and limited storage - which means that you have to make your own. And sometimes, you just need to think outside of the box for these hacks, and this ottoman hack is proof of that. By using a storage ottoman as storage and as a desk chair, you're killing two birds with one stone.
Not only will this give you a comfortable place to complete your schoolwork, but these ottomans have the added bonus of being able to keep your belongings out of the way, too.
Use Adhesive Hooks When You Can't Nail Into the Wall
Every college is different, but many schools don't allow their students to make permanent changes to their dorm rooms. This means that they're not even allowed to drill a hole into the wall - and this can pose a problem when you want to make the most of hanging space. But you'll be happy to know that you don't have to break the rules to make the most of this storage solution.
Adhesive hooks work wonders when you're not allowed to drill into a wall, and their adhesive qualities allow you to hang up everything from your toweling robe to your shower caddy.
Show off Your Hat Collection With a Curtain Rail
If you're the kind of person who can't leave the house without wearing a hat, there's a high chance that you'll want to take your hat collection to college. But finding a way to organize these hats in limited space can be difficult - which is why you might want to take note of this dorm hack. By doing this, you can not only keep your hats organized, but you can also make sure that they're on show.
To do this, grab yourself an old curtain rail and curtain rings and attach them to the wall. Of course, you might want to check you're allowed to do this before you start drilling holes.
Use a Drawer Organizer to Keep Stationery in Place
You can't go back to school without being prepared for your classes. And that means you probably head back to college with a whole bag of stationery and office supplies. But while it could be easy to simply shove all of this stuff inside of a drawer, this normally results in countless lost pens, a broken calculator, and a jumble of mess. There's an affordable dorm hack to solve that problem, though.
You can buy drawer organizers from most stores, and they'll offer you the chance to keep your stationery organized and in order for when you need it. And you'll thank yourself for that hack when you desperately need a pen.
Use Clip Lights to Create a Cozier Space
Most dorm rooms come with one big light for the whole room, which means that you have to share it with your roommate. And this can pose a problem when you want to stay up late studying for a test while your roommate wants to go to sleep. But that's why clip lights could become your new college best friend. By using these, you can create your own little den.
You can clip these to your bed or even your desk, and make a cozy space that lights up just for you. You should be able to keep on your roommate's good side, too.
Use a Wine Rack to Keep Your Water Bottles and Cups Safe
When you go back to school, you're often so busy that you forget how to take care of yourselves. But it's incredibly important to ensure that you're still eating and drinking, and one of the best ways to stay hydrated is to have some water bottles on tap. Hands up how many of you have lost a water bottle, though? If you have your hands in the air and you're waving them in the air like you just don't care, this dorm hack is for you.
One of the best ways to keep your water bottles handy and in one place is to use a wine rack. This can then be placed on your desk or even on the floor by the door so you don't forget one.
Invest in a Waterproof Shower Caddy to Shower With Ease
This next dorm hack isn't necessarily a secret, but it's one that many college students forget. So, we're here to remind you to invest in a shower caddy before you head back to school! That's because most dorm rooms don't come with their own bathroom, which means that you have to share a communal space that's often far down the hall from your actual room. And if that's the case, you'll thank your lucky stars for this affordable hack.
You can pick up a shower caddy super cheap, but it'll be priceless during your college years. Just make sure it's waterproof, so you don't have to replace it in a few months' time.
Buy Stackable Shelves to Save Some Floor Space
When you have limited space in your dorm room, you want to make the most of every inch. And that's why sometimes it works in your favor to think vertically. Thankfully, so many products exist that can help you with that - and stackable shelves are some of them. These shelves simply stack on top of each other without taking up too much space, and give you the perfect place to store your belongings.
Plus, these kinds of shelves can be tucked away if you don't want them on show. You can place them up against a wall, underneath a desk, or even underneath your bed if you have space.
Buy a Full Length Mirror for Secret Extra Storage
No college dorm would be complete without a mirror. And while you could use a small vanity mirror on your desk, why would you use one of them when you could buy a full-length mirror instead? But if you want a dorm hack that will enhance your whole college experience, we're here to tell you about full-length mirrors that also offer secret storage. And they're perfect for your jewelry and other accessories.
These mirrors have a secret compartment to store all of your small items, and they're so handy. Plus, many of them are freestanding, so you don't have to hang them on the wall.
Leave Your Out-Of-Season Wardrobe at Home to Save Space
One thing you'll probably know about dorm rooms is that they're pretty small. And while students know exactly what they're signing up for when they start college, that doesn't make living in such limited space any easier. So, why don't you pack light instead? Instead of taking your own closet with you to college, streamline your process to focus only on in-season clothes, and leave behind anything you probably won't be wearing.
Of course, this won't work if you don't plan on returning home to see your parents as the seasons change. But most students head back home for the holidays, right?
DIY Your Own Hanging Jewelry Organizer
If you're looking for affordable dorm hacks and don't want to spend any money at all, you'll be happy to know that there are so many ways to keep your things organized in your dorm room. And if you're looking for a nifty way to organize your jewelry, you could show off your necklaces and earrings and hang them on the wall like a decoration! All you need for this is a stick, some hooks, and some string.
This DIY craft project looks way more expensive than it is, and it's a great way to add some personalization to your dorm room. Plus, your jewelry won't get tangled!
Store Your Spare Blankets in Cute Baskets
Let's be honest; you can't go back to school without a few blankets. Not only do they allow you to add a bit of personality to your dorm room, but they're also perfect for those cold winter nights or late-night study sessions on the quad. But anyone who has ever tried to stack blankets before will know that it's very difficult. That's why you might want to try this cute and affordable dorm hack, instead.
All you need to do is swap stacking your blankets for folding them nicely in cute baskets. And it's up to you whether you opt for woven baskets, or harder bamboo baskets.
Bypass the Dorm Room Bed and Buy a Bunk Bed Instead
This dorm room hack totally depends on the rules and regulations of your college. But if your college allows you to switch out your basic dorm room bed with an alternative bed you buy yourself, it's definitely something you should consider. Although it's not the most affordable option when you're given a bed for free, it can make college life so much easier - especially as you won't have to deal with the limited space of the dorm room.
By lifting up your bed, you're instantly giving yourself more floor space. And you could turn this into a little study den, a lounging area, or even a usable kitchen.
Use Boxes to Store Your Belongings With Ease
The last thing you want to do when you head back to school is live out of a suitcase, which is why it's always a good idea to head to college with a plan of action. And this plan of action should definitely involve storage solutions like these. Yes, storage boxes are perfect for students, as they allow you to hide anything in there, while also offering you the chance to stack them up.
By filling up these boxes and then stacking them in your closet, you'll be able to fit in so much more. And this will make your space looks so much tidier.
Use Drawer Organizers to Make Sense of Your Jewelry
When you head to college, you want to look your best. You want to take your favorite clothes, and you want to accessorize with your favorite jewelry. But keeping track of your jewelry and keeping your necklaces untangled can be difficult when you live in a dorm room. Thankfully, there's a very easy and affordable dorm room hack to keep them tidy, and that's where drawer organizers come into play.
By using drawer organizers, you can separate your necklaces, keep your earrings in pairs, and ensure that your rings don't scratch your favorite bracelet when they're in a drawer together.
Use a TV Stand as the Ultimate Entertainment System
Most parents and prospective college students believe that the furniture in dorm rooms needs to be smaller in such a limited space. And while that's true for certain pieces of furniture, a TV unit or stand can be incredibly useful if you know how to use it properly. And the best way to use it is to have it double up as general storage for everything from your clothes to your school books.
By using the entirety of this unit, you can make sure everything in your dorm room has a place. And this will stop it from cluttering up your floor or your bed.
Turn Mason Jars Into Cute Pots for Your Belongings
When you head to the store in search of essential college buys, you probably come across a whole load of white plastic boxes that work perfectly as a storage option. But if you're someone who prefers a more colorful way of life, you could just make some of your own storage options instead. This dorm hack is super cute, as it involves turning old mason jars into colorful pots for all of your things.
All you have to do is paint these mason jars and fill them with whatever you please. Of course, you can let your creative juices flow and add anything else you'd like.
Make Use of a Cork Board or Whiteboard for Extra Personalization
It's often hard to make a dorm room feel like a home, which is why it's important to add all-important special touches here and there. And one of the best ways to do this - while also upping your organization game - is to add a cork board or whiteboard onto the wall. By doing this, you can pin up pictures from home, or maybe even your school calendar so you can keep track of the days.
Not only is a corkboard or whiteboard a super cool addition to a dorm room, it also has the added bonus of being temporary. So, you can change it up with ease.
Use Magazine Holders and Binders to Keep Your Schoolwork Safe
If you're the kind of student that struggles to keep on top of their organization, you'll be happy to know that there are so many dorm hacks that can make this so much easier. In fact, in most cases, you can stay organized without even trying! And this is definitely the case if you use magazine holders and binders to keep your schoolwork safe. This way, you won't lose any important paper in your messy room.
By storing these magazine holders and binder on your shelves or on your desk hutch, you'll know exactly where you can find that form your professor gave you three weeks ago.
Stick Important Reminders Into Your Plant Pots
When you're at college, there's always so much to do. From completing your school work to attending study sessions and campus parties, it can be very easy to forget things. And while you could add sticky notes to your door, these things can easily fall off. So, why don't you get creative with your reminders and pop them into some potted plants, instead? This way, it'll be hard to forget.
For this dorm hack, all you need are some cocktail sticks and colorful sticky notes. Then, you have all of the tools to make these colorful reminders become a reality.
Buy Some Plush Pillows to Make Your Dorm Feel Like Home
When you only have a limited amount of space to work with, many students leave a lot of their belongings at home with their parents. But this can ultimately make your dorm room feel cold and impersonal. A way to change that is to fill your whole room with home comforts, and we think you can never go wrong with adding some plush pillows and cushions to your dorm room.
If you opt for cushions that offer all different colors, textures, and patterns, you can really give your dorm room a touch of personality that'll make it feel more like home.