Target dorm essentials quick picks
Single-serve coffee maker: Keurig K-Mini Single-Serve Coffee Maker
Drawer organizer: Brightroom Plastic Drawer Organizer, 6 Pieces
Comforter set: Truly Soft Everyday Buffalo Plaid Comforter Set
String lights: Room Essentials Curtain String Lights With Clips
Beanbag chair: Room Essentials Corduroy Structured Dorm Beanbag Chair
As a rising junior, freshman year feels almost like the mythical past. I’ve learned more than I imagined in two years — inside and outside the classroom — and one spot I’ve done the most reflecting (and studying) is my dorm room. Little did I know that finding the perfect dorm room essentials would be more important than my younger self anticipated. Since your dorm is a temporary home, you don’t want to spend a fortune. One of my recommendations for shopping dorm decor? None other than Target.
For most of us living in college dorms, this is our first time living away from home. Your first year is usually a mash-up of thriving off independence combined with the messy realities of a shared living space, dividing chores and failed cooking attempts. With unexpected plot twists around every corner, it’s key to ensure your dorm space has everything you need for sleeping, studying and having fun, from twin XL bedsheets to decor.
To make the process a breeze, I found 25 of the best dorm room essentials from Target, which are all affordable and practical so you can make the most of your semester.
Target dorm kitchen essentials
Who said dorm breakfasts have to be boring? This compact waffle maker can even make mini paninis, hash browns and pizzas so you can create a feast even if you don't have an actual kitchen.
A rice cooker is a dorm room staple. This one is even better because it doubles as a steamer basket so you can make steamed vegetables or fish, as well as the one-pot recipes you’ve been meaning to make from TikTok. Its 16-cup capacity also means it's great for meal prep.
Mugs in college have a habit of mysteriously going missing. That’s why it’s a good idea to invest in unique mugs to deter mug swiping. This stoneware mug with a brown mushroom graphic is perfect for your morning (or late-night) coffee.
Prep for your dreaded 9 a.m. class with a fresh brew before you head out the door. This slim machine is under 5 inches wide, so it will fit on a narrow dorm counter, and with so many K-Cups to choose from, there’s a flavor sure to delight every hard-to-please college student.
During a stressful semester, self-care is a top priority. That includes upping your water intake, and this water bottle comes with an activated carbon block filter and straw so you can make sure yours is clean. There’s also a built-in carrying loop for maximum convenience, so you can bring it with you everywhere you go.
Target dorm organization
Make laundry day easier with this hands-free backpack. It features a drawstring design to prevent your precious cargo from falling out on your walk to the laundry room.
If you have limited storage space, these vertical hangers designed for pants will help you maximize your closet real estate. Each hanger has five tiers and side clips that allow you to hang up to five pairs on each one. It's perfect if you’re the college Carrie Bradshaw and have way too many clothes.
This self-draining caddy is made from durable plastic and hangs over the shower head to save floor space. It has plenty of room for showering essentials like shampoo, conditioner and body wash so you can do your full "everything shower" on the regular.
No room for a jewelry armoire? Store your accessories in this over-the-door organizer. It has several compartments that can hold everything from hair tools to desk supplies. There are also four hooks at the bottom so you can hang purses and totes.
Corral everything from desk supplies to your growing skin care collection instantly with this drawer organizer set. It's clear so you can easily see what's inside, so it'll come in handy when you're in a rush.
Target dorm bedding
Lend vintage charm to your dorm room with these cotton sheets printed with an array of quirky, endearing tulips. The sheets are 100% cotton and Oeko-Tex certified. They're also wrinkle-, pill- and shrink-resistant for easy care.
College dorm beds are not known for being the most comfortable, so you’ll want to invest in a mattress topper to ensure you get a quality night's sleep. This memory foam mattress topper has cooling gel to regulate temperature at night. It also boasts a unique design for maximum airflow and relieving back pressure, which is one type of pressure college students will be grateful to get off their shoulders.
If you're looking for a classic style, look no further than this complete comforter set that comes with a comforter and shams. Plus, it's hypoallergenic and machine-washable (make sure the washing machine you're using is large enough, though) for when those inevitable spills happen.
Achieve a tranquil vibe in your space with this blue set that includes a duvet cover, pillow shams, flat sheet, fitted sheet, two pillowcases and one comforter. It's ideal for year-round use since you can use the fluffy comforter on warmer nights or take it off during the warm months.
A throw blanket is the perfect way to elevate the look of your bed without spending a fortune. Sling it over a chair to add visual interest or nestle in it for added warmth on a chilly night. This one adds a fun statement, but it's also made with a lightweight and machine-washable knit fabric for easy care.
Target dorm lighting
Offset the sterile lighting in your dorm with something that elevates the ambience. This mushroom lamp brings an edgier dynamic to your space and comes in three fun colors so there’s a mushroom for every dorm room aesthetic.
Bring the outdoors inside your space with these vine string lights, which are great if you don't have natural lighting for real plants. These lights can be powered by USB or batteries, and each set comes with 20 warm white light bulbs that'll make your space feel cozy.
Light up your walls while displaying your favorite memories with this set of vertical string lights. The subtle design will blend into any room theme.
In addition to illuminating your desk, this nifty light features a wireless charging dock perfectly positioned to view your phone while it's getting juiced up. Best of all, the lamp features a patented light disinfection technology that has been shown to kill the bacteria on your phone.
If you're looking for desk storage, this LED lamp has compartments for paper clips, pens and sticky notes. The USB port is a practical addition, and the flexible neck means you can focus the light wherever it is needed the most, so you can avoid unnecessary eye strain.
Target dorm decor
Create a garden vibe with this modern floral print. The sawtooth mount easily attaches to the wall, and the print can be hung vertically or horizontally.
Decompress after a stressful day with this cushiony beanbag chair. It's a more elevated version than a traditional beanbag, so it'll add a pop of design fun to your room too.
Cover up ugly floors with a patterned rug like this one. Place it near the front door, a bathroom or next to your bed for extra support when you get up in the morning. The spray latex backing ensures the rug stays put.
This faux plant even comes with realistic soil that'll fool anyone. Best of all, you don't have to worry about it dying when you're away.
Nail the perfect mirror selfie with this over-the-door version that captures your entire look. Bonus: It can make your tiny space look a bit bigger.