12 Dorm Room Essentials for Cleaning, Tidying, and Organizing
College is a time of intensive learning, and we’re not just talking about the classroom. Those four years are also about learning how to live independently, which might mean figuring out how to do laundry or keep surfaces clear of clutter for the first time. (Turns out there wasn’t a tiny elf who did that in the middle of the night.)
In this new phase of adulthood, a little help goes a long way, like college essentials from IKEA. From storage containers to desk organizers, these stylish and practical finds have multiple uses, all of which help keep dorm rooms clean and organized. Here’s what we recommend.
Laundry and Kitchen
When the tag says “line dry,” listen: The cheerful PRESSA laundry hanger makes air-drying space-efficient (and way cuter). FILFISK reusable storage bags add color to meal prep and snack packing, plus they take up less room (and create less waste) than a bunch of disposable bags. And no small space — or any space, really — should be without a utility cart. The movable NISSAFORS has a fun modernist design and enough shelving to handle anything from cookware to bath towels. You can even use it as a side table or nightstand.
Cleaning and Organizing
Adulthood pro tip: It’s easier to maintain a clean space than to clean a messy one. The PEPPRIG cleaning set has everything you need to stay on top of chores, including a wet mop and microfiber cloths. The SKÅDIS pegboard is an organizational powerhouse, making use of precious vertical space and accommodating everything from mementos to study supplies. Contain all the little things of life, from cotton swabs to tea bags, with SAXBORGA jars: The clear design makes it easy to find what you’re looking for.