College students needing a daily caffeine fix before heading to morning classes will benefit from a coffee maker. A small coffee machine will take up little surface space and can make one cup at a time so no coffee is wasted. Since traditional dorm rooms have no kitchens, bring a mini-fridge and microwave. When on-campus cafeterias are closed, your microwave and fridge may be your only sources for food. A power strip with a built-in surge protector is important to have if you use multiple appliances in addition to other electronic items.
Maintain a neat and clutter-free dorm room by using storage containers. Since college dorm rooms typically do not have an abundance of space, you may have more personal items then space to store them. Available in all sizes, you can hide storage containers under a bed or in the closet and since most are stackable, they take up little area on the floor. Use storage units to hold anything from clothes to food. Other types of storage units include clothes or shoe organizers that hang from closets and doors.
A desk organizer that holds pens, papers and other items will keep your desk neat and prevent clutter. Work late in the night without disturbing your roommate by using a desk lamp. If you do not have the desktop space for a lamp, buy one that can clamp onto the side of the desk or bed. Perhaps the most important dorm room item, an alarm clock will help you make it to every class on time.
Post important information such as telephone numbers, due dates, homework assignments and grocery lists on a dry erase board or cork board. Also, keep track of important dates with a calendar hung by your desk. Cure bouts of homesickness while at college with reminders of home such as framed photographs of family and friends. Wall decorations including curtains, artwork and posters will help add personality to your room and create a homey atmosphere.