How to Set Up a Dorm That Feels Like Home

Dorm life, like college academics, is a learning experience. Despite the difficulty and stress of studying, this is a time in your life that you will remember fondly. This is the moment to have the most fun. All of the bizarre anecdotes you’ll tell while reminiscing about your early years will have one thing in common: they happened in college. 

If you’re reading this, you’re undoubtedly getting ready for one of the most incredible adventures of your life. Moving into the dormitories could be the first time you’ve ever planned to live on your own. You could be concerned about forgetting something essential or dealing with your emotions. Chances are, your dorm room will never be as homey as your childhood bedroom, but with a few tactics, you can get very close.

Regardless of how enthusiastic you are about living on your own and taking care of yourself for the first time, be prepared for an emotional rollercoaster. We’ve got you covered if you’re not sure where to begin. It’s all about making the most of the space you have, reducing possible clutter in the area, and improving the ambiance in your potentially dreary environment. Whether you are moving into the dorms for the first time, or you have called the dorm home for years, these tips will help you feel like you have your own little oasis on a busy college campus.

Make Your Dorm Room Feel Like Home

Dorm rooms might appear bland or lifeless at first glance, so make the area uniquely yours to bring it to life. Remember to bring some objects from home to adorn your room. Everyone has cork boards with photos from home or even fancy string lights with clothespins streaming across their wall. To feel more at home, use matching photo frames hung as a gallery wall. If you are feeling extra classy, print all of your photos in black and white and use black frames.

You will settle faster if you have some of your favorite items from home. Consider bringing a blanket, lamp, or perhaps a chair from your previous room. When decorating your room, pick ornaments and color choices that reflect your personal flair. However, before making any alterations, check the school regulations to see if there are any limits on the scope of your decoration. But, no matter what the constraints are, there are always easy methods to put a bit of oneself into space.

Plants, Plants, Plants

Plants, especially indoor plants, are an excellent way to improve the overall mood of your dorm. They also absorb excess carbon dioxide and encourage the flow of oxygen. This is especially important during finals week when you’ll need your room to be as stress-free as possible. However, because college will surely offer a full schedule, it is critical that your plants be as low-maintenance as possible.

If you’re busy and don’t have time to grow plants, I recommend caring for succulents. They are typically simple to care for, but be sure to position them near your (likely restricted) window area because they require as much sunshine as possible. They also need to be watered at least once a week. Additionally, if you can find the space, grow some fresh herbs for a great smell and an easy way to step up your culinary skills.  #ramengoals.

Just Say No To Twinkle Lights

Finding an outstanding college lamp may make a significant difference in the ambiance of a space and have an influence on productivity. Lights built specifically for long periods of study help minimize eye strain and make it simpler to stay awake and focused on the activities at hand. The correct lighting is critical for reducing fatigue and eye strain. It is important to get a light that is both functional and glare-free. If you want that homey feel, don’t bother with the twinkle lights. Nothing says dorm room more than Christmas lights all year round. Instead, opt for practical lighting sources that reflect your more sophisticated style.

There are many types of lamps available, and it is up to your preference and budget. Keep in mind the different design aspects that are integrated while looking for dorm lights. You may examine the materials used, the weight of the light, and how it operates. The finest desk lamps for studying that have emerged in recent years include innovative design characteristics that fit today’s mobile, multi-tasking, and on-the-go students. When looking for the best desk lights for college, look for smart multitasking features like built-in USB chargers or even a shelf for keeping cups of books. 

Most importantly, consider the brightness level of your lighting options and how much light you will need. Having that warm, inviting feeling when you come home at the end of the day is much harder to do when you are greeted by harsh overpowering light or a room so dark you can hardly see.

Invest in High-Quality Bed Products

With so many dorm room necessity lists online, it’s not easy to figure out exactly what you need to make your dorm room fabulous.  Which products should (or shouldn’t) spend your money on? Because virtually all of us starting college are on a tight budget, we must be careful with how we spend our money. 

The most important rule is to make your bed comfortable. Dorm room mattresses are notoriously unpleasant, so get a featherbed to place on top of your mattress. They are not always inexpensive, but your back will thank you. Invest in comforters as well. They are an excellent choice for students since they are warm and have an easy-to-clean duvet cover. Don’t forget to bring your bedsheets. Cotton, cotton blends, microfiber, and bamboo are the most common material choices for dorm bedding. If you can’t splurge on high quality bedding yet, invest in scent boosters for the laundry so at least your bed always smells welcoming every time you climb under the sheets.

Implement Soft Textures

What are the characteristics of a truly lovely room? Of course, beautiful furniture and decorations, as well as the appropriate lighting and colors, are required. But there is a secret that all excellent designers are aware of that can truly elevate any space. It’s the one thing that no room is complete without: texture.

Given that your college bedroom serves as your personal little hideaway, you’ll want to make it as comfortable as possible. Soft throw blankets and textured pillows may make a significant impact. In addition, patterned curtains help to block out unwanted distractions, and an inexpensive rug will help to tie your room together and cover any ugly stains. Plus, you will appreciate that soft, warm feeling on your toes first thing in the morning during the winter months.

Set Up a Sitting Area

Even if you want your dorm to be the perfect location to hang out with your pals, dorm rooms are often tiny and lack a variety of seating alternatives. That is why it is critical to acquire some nice pieces that can double as extra seats for when you have friends visiting. Additionally, the chairs you do have should take as little space as possible while remaining comfortable.

For movie nights or group study sessions, two desk chairs are insufficient! College dorm chairs should be attractive and portable, so experiment with bean bags, floor cushions, or folding chairs. If you’re short on room, choose ottomans that double as storage and extra seats.

Make It Your Own and Make It Comfortable.

This is the beginning of a fantastic experience. The emotions of move-in day might easily overwhelm you. There’s a lot going on, and there’s always that lingering sense of adapting to something new. However, be sure to pause for a while to take everything in. Your room should be a safe haven for you during both happy and stressful times. So, at college, take control of where you reside since it may impact how you feel and function, both academically and socially.

It’s fun to embrace the age-old traditions of team flags and giant paper clips as dorm decor. If that’s your thing, do it. We love to see people embracing what they love. If you are missing home and want to feel more permanent in your space, then give these tips a try.