Dorm Room Storage Hacks Every College Freshman Needs

Moving into a college dorm room is both an exciting, yet challenging moment in your life, especially when you’re an incoming freshman. For many, it’s the first time leaving home and settling into a new area. You have to say goodbye to your childhood bedroom and hello to residence halls. However, no matter how nice a dorm room can seem, there is just never enough room for all of your stuff. You either have no idea what to pack in the first place or you have to leave everything behind because there is such little space to work with. Where is someone supposed to put their 20 pairs of shoes plus outfits for every season? Although the idea of getting everything to fit in your dorm room can seem like a daunting task, there’s no need to fear—we’ve got you covered. Check out these seven dorm room storage hacks that will not only maximize the space in your room but also keep things trendy. You will be ready in no time for move-in day!

PHOTO:  Andie Cabero, College Fashionista Alum

Use Your Accessories As Artwork

For those who can’t seem to part with their favorite accessories, no worries! Creating a gallery wall with your wide selection not only saves space, but gives your room a more creative aspect. 

PHOTO: Yusra Siddiqui, College Fashionista Alum

Choose Nightstands With Extra Storage

A nightstand is the perfect bedside spot to put a lamp (because who actually enjoys fluorescent lighting?) as well as other easy-to-grab items. Get one with cubbies or drawers that’ll give you extra space to put those items you would want close by.

PHOTO: Ally Mann, Kent State University

Invest in Wall Organization to Store Bits and Bobbles

Why clutter your room with baskets and other storage containers when you can think about going up—up on the wall that is. A wall organizing basket not only saves space, but it allows you to showcase your favorite magazines and other reading materials.

PHOTO: Emily Cartwright, Ithaca College

Turn Your Shelves Into a Space For Your Footwear

When there are too many shoes to count, you need a solution. Not only will a shelving rack give you a home for your beloved boots and sneakers, but putting one on top of a dresser will also add some dimension to your room (and save some much-needed floor space).

PHOTO: Allie CostaPhiladelphia University

Use a Rack for Additional Clothing Storage

Your clothes say a lot about you as a person, so why not show them off with a clothing rack? This will give you some more space in your closet, plus you can change the clothes to coordinate with the season and/or the colors of your room.

PHOTO: Val Veak, Ohio State University

Stack Shelves On Top of Your Desk

Universities often supply students with desks, but unfortunately, there never seems to be enough room for all of your school supplies. Adding shelves on top of your desk will not only give you more room, but allow you to display your cute knick-knack collection as well.

PHOTO: Dia Oborna, Temple University

Use a Coat Rack to Hang Random Pieces

Adding wall hooks gives you the opportunity to put up items that you use a lot for easy access. Plus, you get bonus points if you can find one in a cool design that goes with your room aesthetic.

What are your go-to dorm storage hacks? Let us know in the comments below!

Opening image by Allie Costa.

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