6 Cool Dorm Essentials for Guys

After a long hiatus away from campus, many colleges are resuming in-person classes this fall. That means that a lot of parents are headed to drop their young adult children off at their dorm rooms. While the basic shopping is obvious, parents sometimes overlook the important extras. So here are 6 cool dorm essentials for guys that you might want to add to your back to school shopping list:

1. Mini Fridge

This is definitely one of the dorm essentials for guys. If your dorm doesn’t already offer a mini fridge, and they do allow you to have one, make this a priority on your back-to-school shopping list. After all, it’s nice to be able to keep some snacks in the fridge for late-night studying. Plus it’s great to be able to offer a cold soda or snack to friends who drop by. Most dorms do allow them. However, check the rules at your dorm before you make this purchase.

2. Coffee Maker

College Magazine ranks the coffee maker as the number one of all dorm essentials for guys and girls alike. Sure, there’s plenty of coffee on campus. However, do you really want to have to get dressed and head out before you get your first cup in the morning? No. And if you’re up all night studying, it’s best to be able to make your coffee when you want it. Whether you use a traditional coffee maker, a pour-over, a Keurig or something else, make sure that you get this essential item.

3. Mattress Topper

College Magazine also wisely suggests adding a mattress topper to your list. Let’s face it; most college dorm beds aren’t very comfortable. You need to get a good night’s sleep before an early class. You’ll do that a lot more easily if your bed is comfortable. So make the bed that they provide for you more comfy. A good thick mattress topper is a must. Add some extra nice sheets and comforters and you’ve really helped yourself out for the year.

4. All Your Electronics

Positivity is Pretty agrees with what we’ve said so far. They have the mattress topper at the top of their list along with great bedding. They add good pillows, too. And yes, the mini fridge and coffee maker are both high on their list, too. But with 40 suggestions of dorm essentials for guys, they’ve also got lots of great ideas we didn’t think of at first.

For example, they’ve devoted an entire section of their list to all of the electronics you don’t want to forget. Make sure that you pack:

Long power strip with surge protector
10 foot phone charger
Laptop with its own charger
Portable speaker
AirPods / Ear phones

And we would add your tablet with its charger and any smart technology you love such as your Echo.

5. Under Bed Storage

Positivity is Pretty also recommends bringing a lot of smart storage solutions. After all dorm rooms are small. Therefore easy-to-use storage options are dorm essentials for guys. There are tons of options out there. Personally, we like the under the bed storage options. Of course, make sure that you’re not on the top of a bunk bed if you’re going to use this option. Extra drawers, etc. are alternative options.

6. Cleaning Supplies

That’s right. We know this one is boring. It’s sure a lot more fun to shop for mini fridges and new laptops. However, cleaning supplies are definite dorm room essentials for guys. You don’t want to live in stink and stench. It’s easier if you stock up and bring that stuff with you. Then have an early meeting with your roommates about how you want to handle the chores. It’s not the fun part but it’s the responsible thing to do.

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Kathryn Vercillo

Kathryn Vercillo is a professional writer who loves to live a balanced life. She appreciates a good work-life balance. She enjoys balance in her relationships and has worked hard to learn how to balance her finances to allow for a balanced life overall. Although she’s only blonde some of the time, she’s always striving for total balance. She’s excited to share what she’s learned with you and to discover more together along the way.