Top 10 DORM ROOM essentials

With many kids (including my own) starting university in the Fall, I thought I'd put together a collection of fun ideas for dorm rooms. I've listed all my favourites, and I've included links in case you want to make a purchase. 

Note: I'm an Amazon affilate, so if you buy something using one of my links, I'll receive a small percentage (at NO extra cost to you).

1) Mattress topper & fun sheets - Dorm beds do not always have the most comfortable mattresses... and with all those classes and late night study sessions, students need a good night's sleep. An inexpensive mattress topper and some cute sheets will make a dorm room comfy and cozy.

Click on the picture to purchase.

2) Fan - Dorms can be super-hot, so a slim fan is a "must have".

Click on the picture to purchase.

3) Shower shoes and shower caddy - Shared bathrooms call for shower shoes and organized shower supplies. I love this one from Amazon that has a special place for a phone. (AND it comes in a lot of great colours.)

Click on the picture to purchase.

4) Command strips and hooks - Command strips and hoods are fantastic for damage free hanging. They hold strongly and remove cleanly.

Click on the picture to purchase.

5) Laptop and printer - Every student needs the right equipment, and computers and printers are a must. I LOVE my wireless epson printer (below). The printer works great, AND the ink lasts a lot longer than all the other printers I have owned (which has saved me a lot of money). I highly recommend it!!!

Click on the picture to purchase.

6) Microwave / fridge (if not included) - Meal plans are great, but being prepared to make a few things in a dorm room is wonderful too.

Click on the picture to purchase.

7) Multi-purpose cart - In tight spaces, organization is extra important, and this multi-purpose cart is inexpensive, useful, and super-cute.

Click on the picture to purchase.

8) Portable speaker - I have this speaker, and I LOVE it! It's waterproof, inexpensive, and (despite it's small size) it sounds great. I think this is great for a dorm room.

Click on the picture to purchase.

9) Snacks - I don't think this needs any explanation. Dorm room snacks are VERY important. lol

Click on the picture to purchase.

10) Thoughtful gifts from home - Getting fun mail from home can really help a homesick student, and I have adorable and inexpensive items in my shop that can be mailed directly to a loved one. Check out my "BEE thoughtful" collection, choose a fun gift, select a handmade tag, and I'll mail it for you. Easy peasy!

Click on the picture to purchase.

What would you add to this list? Feel free to leave your suggestions in the comments below.

♥
Gina (aka East Coast Mommy)

Back to School Crafts & DIYs... made using dollar store supplies

Back to school is a special time for kids and adults. It marks a new beginning, and a time to get organized. To make the milestone special, I have some fantastic back to school crafts and DIYs to share today.

 

1) Desk storage - Use a dollar store container or a can from the recycling bin to make store for office and school supplies. Find the full instructions here.

2) Pencil toppers - All you need are pipe cleaners, googly eyes and pom poms to make these adorable pencil toppers. Check out the instructions here.

And the pencils look adorable in the DIY storage container.

3) Personalized binder - Kids can personalize binders with stickers or pictures. Check out how easy it is to do here.

4) Custom Journal - Everyone needs a place to keep track of homework or jot down "to do" lists. I love the idea of using a personalized journal. It's easy (and inexpensive) to make using the instructions here.

5) Personalized pencil case - Dollar store pencil cases can easily be personalized with decals and stickers. Check out how I made mine here.

Seriously... how cute are these supplies?????

6) DIY (and budget-friendly) photo props - Everyone takes photos on the first day of school, and I have some great ideas for special pictures here.

For a closer look at all my back to school crafts and DIYs, check out the video below...

I hope you like these ideas. Let me know your favourite in the comments. 😀

♥
Gina (aka East Coast Mommy)