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When looking for college dorm furniture, there are many different options available. Since most college dorms are small spaces, choosing pieces that are compact or have dual functions can be very beneficial in maximizing your space and comfort. It’s very important that you don’t choose too much, as it can cause the room to be cramped or seem even smaller than it already is.
Here are some tips for what to look for in college dorm furniture:
Affordability: Going to a university and living on campus certainly has many expenses. You may or may not stay in similiar rooms from year to year, which is why if you are looking to save money you may wish to set a budget so you do not go overboard. It makes the most sense to only purchase what you absolutely need. When you consider affordability and your budget, you may decide it is best to allot the majority of it for one or two key pieces rather than purchasing several at once.
Usability: Furniture should offer function in order to be practical. For example, a dresser can store clothing. Having furniture that does not do anything beyond adding decorative appeal may cause some storage issues or make a room seem over cluttered.
Dual Purpose: Finding items that offer two or more multiple uses can help greatly reduce both your costs as well as minimize clutter. For example, a storage trunk could be used for both storing blankets and sweaters as well as provide extra seating when you have visitors in your room.
Storage: Storage space is a premium in tight spaces, which is why you’ll want to think about what things you will bringing with you to college. (See our College Dorm Essentials Checklist for more ideas.)
Quality: You Will Want to make sure that the pieces you choose are of good quality so they can withstand your stay. While it may seem that more expensive items would be of better quality, this is not always the case. Better quality materials will give you a better investment in the long run, since you will not need to replace them and they are less likely to break or need repaired and maintenance.
Safety: Make sure that the objects are sturdy, can resist breaking or falling down easily, and do not require the need to be anchored to the walls. Safety is very important, since you do not want to worry about being hurt while you are living in your college dorm! We were quite disappointed for example to find out one dresser that we especially liked posed quite a hazard of toppling over if more than 1 drawer was open at a time and because of rules of the dormitory we could not securely anchor it into the walls as recommended by the manufacturer.
School Issued Pieces: Many schools and universities will provide the basics such as a bed, nightstand, desk, and dresser. Make sure you know in advance what they will provide, as you will likely be stuck with it whether you want it or not. There is no sense in purchasing things you do not need or if you will have to figure out a way to store it.
Now that you know what things to look for in choosing your college dorm furniture, here are some suggestions for things you might want to consider:
Shelving: A narrow and tall book shelf may be excellent for helping take advantage of vertical space and storing books or other things you will need.
Wardrobe: Closet space is often a premium in on campus living, so a free standing wardrobe might be suitable if you will need additional storage space for hanging up clothing and other items.
TV Stand: Most schools do not provide an entertainment unit or television stand, but it is rather likely you will want to have one for holding your TV. You can sometimes use a dresser or other furniture in your room, but a tv stand can also potentially serve as storage for DVDs and other items.
Bed: Most college dorms will provide you with a standard twin sized bed. However, if you need to provide your own you can either go with a simple frame and mattress or you may also be interested in a loft bed with desk which can give you more space for storage or studying.
Desk: If you are the type of person who needs a desk to study or hold a desk top computer, then a desk is also necessary if your school does not provide you with one. If you study better at the library or have a laptop, then you may find that a desk isn’t the best use of space in your room.
Kitchen Cart: A kitchen cart
Now that you know what to look for in your college dorm furniture and what basics you will need, you’re ready to start making decisions on what type is right for you!