Sharing a college dorm shower will take some adjustment to get used to for many, especially if you have been used to being able to shower when you want or not having to share facilities with others. Fortunately, it’s not as bad as many people anticipate and learning what to expect and following our tips will make it much easier for you to get used to.

The first concern that most people have is a lack of privacy. While it is true that sharing showers will take getting some used to and not all people are equally reserved or open about bathing with others, in general it is not so bad. Having a very large towel and bath robe will help you get used to the lack of privacy if you are concerned about it. You can also practice the art of undressing and dressing under a towel before you get to college to make seamless transitions from shower stall to your clothes.

The most frustrating thing about sharing showers with several other people is limited space and time. You will notice for the first few days that everyone will likely be trying to shower all at the same time, which could result in a lot of waiting or aggravation. After a few weeks though you’ll be able to create a routine where you’ll be able to get a decent shower in peace. You may need to wake up earlier than others or possibly wait until late at night or even shower around dinner time or in the afternoon. However, picking an “off time” and less busy time to get rinsed off will allow you a lot more freedom to take as long as you want and no one will be waiting and complaining.

Another thing you may want to consider is getting a mirror for your college dorm room, since sink space and mirror space can also be a precious commodity. This will allow you to put on make-up, style your hair, or shave without others trying to get the space or having to wait for someone who is hogging the mirror in the public rest room.

Most importantly, you’ll want to make sure you have packed all of the things you need for showering at school. Here is a simple list to get you started:

Bath Tote: Since you’ll have to carry all of your items to the bathroom you’ll want an easy to carry storage tote for all of your needs. One that can be carried into the shower and drain water or hang from a hook may be a great idea. You can see many of the different types available here. They come in many styles, suitable for both guys and girls.

Flip Flops: College dorm shower floors can be very slippery as well as a breeding ground for bacteria or other conditions, so wearing them while bathing is very important. Pick a pair that are comfortable, fit well, and can dry very quickly and easily.

Towels: You should have at the minimum 2-3 towels to use at school so they can dry between use and so you still have a back up when one needs washed. Large towels are best – you may even want to bring beach towels, since they will give you the most amount of privacy for dressing/undressing. Having a towel rack or hanging rod in your room is a good idea so you have a place to hang it so it can dry.

Soap, Toothbrush, and Other Supplies: Having enough soap, toothpaste, and other basic bathroom toiletries is very important. You should not share these items with other people, since it can be a good way to share and spread germs. Having a reserve supply or back up is a good idea so you do not run out.

Do you have any other tips or suggestions for surviving college dorm showers? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

This college dorm checklist will help you make sure you know exactly what college dorm essentials you need and what to bring to college with you. Planning for school and leaving home is an exciting time, and you’ll want to make sure you have everything you need, especially if you’ll be far away from family or friends.

Below is a detailed list of everything you should bring:

School Supplies
Bringing your own school supplies can help you save a lot of money rather than purchasing them at the on campus bookstore.

• Binders
• Notebooks
• Printer Paper
• Printer
• Printer Ink
• Pens
• Pencils
• Pencil Sharpener
• Colored Pencils
• Markers
• Folders
• Paper Clips
• Rubber Bands
• Scissors
• Highlighters
• Laptop/Computer and Supplies
• Tape
• Stapler and Staples

Cooking & Eating Needs
You’ll likely get hungry or thirsty while away at school and so having some basic supplies will make you much more comfortable, especially when the student dining halls are closed.

• Cups
• Mini/Portable Coffee Maker
• Coffee
• Sugar Packets
• Plates
• Silverware
• Dish Soap
• Can Opener
• Microwave
• Mini-Fridge

Clothing
With limited space you’ll want to make sure you don’t have too much clothing – but at the same time not enough can be a problem too! Here’s a good guideline on what to bring.

• Pants
• Shirts
• “Dress” outfits for job interviews, speeches, formal events
• Lots of socks & underwear
• Shoes
• Coat or Jacket
• Hat, Gloves, Scarves
• Sweaters and Sweatshirts
• Laundry Basket
• Laundry Detergent
• $60 in rolled quarters for laundromat

Toiletries
You’ll want to make sure you have everything you need at school as far as soap and other grooming supplies go.

• Soap
• Shampoo and Conditioner
• Deodorant
• Toothpaste
• Toothbrush
• Sandals for Shower
• Bathroom necessities (toilet paper, etc.)
• Caddy for supplies if you’ll have shared bathrooms
• Several towels
• Wash Cloths
• Medications: pain relievers, cold medicine, prescriptions, etc.
• Contact/Lens Solution
• Nail Clippers
• Q-Tips
• Razor and Shaving Cream

Bedding, Furniture, and Room Necessities
Some college dorms supply the furniture, others you will need to bring your own. This basic list will help you prepare.

• 2 sets of sheets
• Pillows and pillowcases
• Comforter
• Throw Blanket
• Lamps
• Curtains/Shades
• Posters or Wall Decorations
• Area Rug
• Storage Boxes
• Sewing Kit
• Small Tool Set
• Alarm Clock
• Radio/Stereo
• Flashlight
• Batteries
• Hangers
• Trash Bags and Trash Can
• Room Deoderizer/Disinfectant Spray
• Tissues
• Paper Towels
• Wipes
• Broom and/or Vacuum
• Fan

Before you move in, you may want to check with your room mate if you plan on having on to see what things you may be sharing, such as a refrigerator or microwave since this can help save money. You may also want to check with your room mate to see if they have any ideas for what they want for decorating. If possible, meeting with each other before you move in will not only give you some help in planning on what to bring to college, but it will also help you get to know one another better also so you won’t feel like complete strangers on the first day.

We think we’ve covered it all in our College Dorm essentials checklist, but if you have any suggestions, ideas, or anything we may have missed, please share your thoughts in the comments below.