The best twin XL dorm bedding, according to experts and a college student

These luxurious sheets are made just for a twin XL mattress, so you won't waste time tucking in extra fabric. They're made from breathable cotton, and the set comes with one queen-sized pillowcase as well as flat and fitted sheets.

I love the textured edges of these sheets — they're feminine without being too over-the-top. The set includes a flat sheet, fitted sheet and standard pillowcase all made from 100% cotton, so you can dream (or daydream!) in comfort. 

Constructed from silky 650-thread-count Egyptian cotton, this sheet set comes with a flat sheet, fully elasticized fitted sheet and two pillowcases so you have everything you need for move-in day. It comes in a variety of vibrant and neutral colors, so these sheets will coordinate with even the most creative room theme.  

According to Kaylen Fields, brand manager for DormCo, “I'm a big fan of our Bedside Pocket style, which includes a unique fitted sheet designed with built-in storage pockets to help keep dorms decluttered — a big deal, especially if there isn't space for a bedside table in a shoebox-sized dorm room!”  

Amanda Zuckerman, co-founder of Dormify, recalls that when she arrived at Washington University in St. Louis, she was surprised by the difficulty of finding twin XL bedding, which became the “main impetus” for launching the brand. These sheets from Dormify have a silky feel and are made with 100% cotton. 

If you’re a hot sleeper, you’ll want to try these editor-favorite, ultra-cooling sheets. They're made from eucalyptus that's designed to be even softer than cotton and wicks away moisture faster than cotton or linen. 

“Our European-made sheets are also a great option to celebrate acceptance to your dream college,” Fields says. She recommends these high-quality ones crafted in Portugal.  

With a smooth cotton finish and down clusters, this comforter gets our testing team’s stamp of approval as the best down comforter out of the 12 we tried. According to our editors, it felt like “sleeping on a cloud,” which is the highest praise for a comforter we can imagine. 

Showcase your appreciation for the finer things in life with this elegant bedding set. The microfiber comforter is super soft and durable, and it's also made to retain its texture and avoid shrinkage or fading in the wash. 

This quilted comforter is among my favorites thanks to the subtle floral design, along with the fact that it's made with 25 recycled water bottles.

Your dorm room will look like it came straight off a Pinterest board thanks to this whimsical bedding set, which also comes in a variety of other vintage-inspired designs.

The subtle ribbed texture takes an otherwise simple comforter to the next level, and you can add matching shams to complete the set. Even better, it's made in a Fair Trade Certified factory to ensure equitable treatment and compensation for the workers. 

Zuckerman likes this bestselling comforter and sham set. It's soft and features a chic feathery fringe, perfect for minimalists who want an elevated touch in their humble abode.

Create a garden-themed look that will make your dorm room bloom with this floral comforter. I also appreciate the practicality of the two convenient pockets on the side of the comforter, perfect for storing your phone and other portable electronic devices. 

Zuckerman recommends this mattress topper that also keeps you cool. Plus, it features straps and an anti-slip surface to avoid shifting around while you sleep.

A mattress topper that's lightweight, machine-washable and designed to retain softness for a long time? Say less. The brushed microfiber shell and polyester fill are also hypoallergenic, which makes this an excellent choice for students with allergies or sensitive skin.  

If you're looking for out-of-this-world comfort, look no further than this mattress topper made with textured memory foam. The gel channels heat away and evenly distributes weight to decrease back pain and improve sleep quality.  

Our testing team ranked this the best firm mattress topper out of the six we tried. It’s made from temperature-regulating firm foam and has a responsive top layer for maximum support.  

Fields says a dorm room throw blanket is an instant way to add coziness to your space. I love this lightweight, yet warm option that's just as cozy as it is cute. It has reinforced seams with strong stitching, and it's made with a thorough dying process that helps it retain its color over time.

You likely don't want to invest in a bouclé sofa in your dorm room, so this throw blanket is the next best thing. It boasts thick threads that will last for years to come, putting it at the top of my list.

Upgrade boring clear storage containers with these boho baskets, which are available in two finishes. Store them under your bed to optimize unused space in your cramped quarters.

Zuckerman loves this pretty, adjustable bed skirt to hide your under-bed area (and prevent roommates from seeing and borrowing your clothes). It's the perfect complement to the fringe comforter.

Zuckerman recommends a mattress protector to ensure your base stays safe from life's inevitable messes. This Amazon pick is waterproof and crafted from microfiber and thick filling for added softness. 

You can't go wrong with a charging headboard, according to Zuckerman. Adorned in velvet, this accessory will create a chic focal point for lounging, studying and relaxing. The charging port has two standard three-prong outlets, one USB-C port and one USB-A port, and it easily attaches to the wall with the included adhesive strips or metal hardware.

Sleeping on a cloud may not be possible, but this decorative pillow is a close second. With a faux shearling exterior made from eco-friendly polyester, it will transform your dorm room into a dreamy escape.

This reading pillow ensures you have plenty of back support while scrolling on your phone or computer. It's made from sturdy velvet polyester and features a washable cover, which is a must-have for those late takeout dinners (and spills) in bed.