When you’re heading off to college, it’s fun to imagine how funky (and functional) your dorm will be, but the reality hits you the moment you walk in there for the first time: It’s small. It’s really small. Dreams of a clutter-free, ultra-chic living space disappear as you realize that you’re expected to live out of this tiny room for the next year. Where will your clothes go? Your school supplies? Your body? There are solutions, and here are some of my favorites.
Over-the-door storage
The back of your door is going to be a major storage solution for you, if you plan this right. Instead of a standard over-door storage contraption designed with pockets for shoes, try the VICTORICH all-in-one organizer ($23.99), which has pockets of varying sizes and even some sturdy compartments that function like deep shelves.
Collapsible, movable bins
You’ll probably get some kind of dresser, sure, but you’ll need more drawers than that. Try a lightweight, movable, collapsible storage bin center, like the BirdRock four-cube fabric shelving unit ($54.99).
Vertical hangers
When you hang all your clothes horizontally across the bar in your closet, you fill it up fast. Get a hanger rod that collapses downward to store all your pants, scarves, or bags. The MORALVE pants hanger ($26.99), for example, has space for five pairs of pants.
Creative shelving
There might be rules against putting shelving up on your walls (or there might not be!) but you can always attach a little shelf next to your bed for easy access to your phone, book, or drink, even if you’re lounging in the top bunk. Try the BedShelfie bedside shelf ($34.99), which clips onto the bed frame.
Fridge storage
Whether you have access to a kitchenette or not, you’ll need to eat, so you’ll probably have a mini fridge. Grab an over-fridge storage mat ($21.99) with side pockets to house your cups, snacks, flatware, or other kitchen supplies to save precious space.
Desk storage
One thing dorms almost always provide is a desk, so use the space above it for even more storage. The DormCo College Cube desk bookshelf ($109.63) goes above your desk to provide plenty of storage for books and pictures.
Under-bed carts
Finally, use the space under your bed to store shoes, coats, or large items. You don’t want them right on the floor, though, so pick up two THESEATOP rolling organizers ($32.99 for both) to keep your items within easy reach.
Storage, in review
Here are all the products we think you need for this storage overhaul:
