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Big College Energy: 12 Dorm Room Essentials That Do the Most

Courtney BalestierCreative Studio Senior Writer
Courtney BalestierCreative Studio Senior Writer
Courtney Balestier is the Apartment Therapy Creative Studio Senior Writer. She holds a master's degree in magazine journalism from NYU and lives in Pittsburgh, where you'll find her doing DIY projects in her new house with her dog and cat (who are not being very helpful).
published Jul 8, 2025
A wooden desk with a drawer, featuring a wall organizer with accessories, a mirror, and a decorative lamp.
Credit: IKEA

College is a time of intensive learning, and we’re not just talking about the classroom. These four years are also about learning how to live on your own — which might mean figuring out for the first time how to do laundry or keep surfaces clear of clutter. (Turns out there wasn’t a tiny elf who did that in the middle of the night.)

In this new phase of adulting, 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 you 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 fun modernist vibes 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 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 vertical space and accommodating everything from a cute mementos moment 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.

Courtney Balestier

Creative Studio Senior Writer

Courtney Balestier is the Apartment Therapy Creative Studio Senior Writer. She holds a master's degree in magazine journalism from NYU and lives in Pittsburgh, where you'll find her doing DIY projects in her new house with her dog and cat (who are not being very helpful).

Get to know Courtney Balestier
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