how do i maximize my dorm room space

Maximize Space in Your Dorm Room with These Simple Tips

• Maximize Vertical Space. One of the main challenges of living in a dorm room is you can’t damage the room in any way. ...
• Create Under-the-Bed Storage and Bunk Up. ...
• Consider a Room Divider. ...
• Buy a Door Organizer. ...
• Use a Shower Caddy. ...
• Try Adhesive Storage Solutions. ...
• Get Creative with Your Closet. ...
• Put Your Shelves to Work. ...

Full Answer

How can I maximize the space under my dorm bed?

The space under your bed is a great place to keep stuff. You can get bins and drawers specifically designed to fit under a bed. Make sure they’re easy to slide out so you can reach everything inside. You can also adjust the height of many dorm beds. The higher you can raise yours, the more room you’ll have underneath it.

How can I use command hooks to maximize dorm space?

To maximize dorm space, using the right combination of command hooks can open up a lot of opportunities—beyond simply mounting decor. For example, attach command hooks to the ceiling and use them to hang a curtain around the bed to create a private nook. Or, add a go-to spot to hang your backpack, clearing up your (probably messy) floor.

Do you have enough space for your dorm room challenge?

But one dorm room challenge is universal: not having enough space. Limited space is challenging to deal with (and live in)—especially if you’re used to your own room or a large home. But there are lots of benefits to living in a small space. For one, you spend less time cleaning because, well, there’s not much to clean!

How much space do you need under your dorm room bed?

A typical dorm room bed takes up nearly seven feet of horizontal space. Just imagine how much you can fit under there if you lift the bed only four or five inches off the ground!

What are the challenges of living in a dorm?

You might have noisy neighbors, a difficult roommate, or annoying rules to follow. But one dorm room challenge is universal: not having enough space.

Can you hang shelves in a dorm room?

One of the main challenges of living in a dorm room is you can’t damage the room in any way. This usually includes no holes in the walls, so you can’t hang shelves. However, you can still maximize your vertical space in other ways.

How to save space in a dorm room?

Another way to save on space is to make the top of your dresser or nightstand your vanity, where you can keep your everyday items to make getting ready a breeze . You can change the feel of your dorm room by adding a couple of additional lighting options. Image courtesy of Pinterest. ‍.

How to relax after a long day of classes?

Instead try to add a little extra lighting to your space either with desk lamps, floor lamps, or even stringed lights. These types of lighting create a warmer, more welcoming feel to your room, and will definitely help you relax after a long day of classes.

Can you loft a bed in a dorm?

If your dorm ceiling is high enough, you can easily loft your bed to create the perfect space for your desk, chair, and other storage items underneath it. Lofting also creates the perfect space to set up a cozy study area, where you can work, read, or do research on the computer.

Can you put holes in a wall?

You can’t put holes in the wall, but you can hang pictures, posters, and other artwork with handy 3M wall hooks. If you have a couple of storage shelves or a desk chair that you just can’t do without, add those to your room as well. Just make sure to safely store the college’s furniture until you move out.

How to maximize space in a dorm room?

You can use a few design tricks to maximize space in your dorm room so you can turn it into a place you love, not just a spot to throw your books between classes. 1. Raise your bed. One of the best ways to gain more space in your room is to loft your bed. Check and see if your college allows lofted beds first—if so, ...

How to add storage to a dorm room?

Another option is to stash your possessions inside items you already have but use only for special adventures, like a suitcase or a Far Out 55 camping bag. (If you’re packing away seasonal clothing, blankets, or other fabric items , consider putting them into space saver bags first. These will help you remove any air so that your items take up less room.)

What to do if you don't have a loft bed?

If you don’t have a lofted bed, you can buy over-the-bed shelving units to create more storage without putting holes in your wall. Over-the-door organizers are great for holding everything from shoes to craft supplies to electronic cords and chargers.

Where to hang a lil wedge?

You can also hang items where they'll be most convenient. You could, for instance, hang a Lil’ Wedge on the side of your desk, or put a Mono Half Pint bag at the door. Large adhesive hooks can even hold blow dryers, flat irons, or curlers, while small ones can be used to line your headboard with twinkle lights in lieu of a bedside lamp.

Can you loft a bed in college?

If you can’t loft your bed, you may still ...

What is the key to a room?

Thomann says the key is to make sure everything in your room serves a purpose. Be mindful about your space and your belongings. Determine what you really need by asking yourself these questions:

How to be considerate of roommates?

Thomann also says even if you can’t share items, you can be considerate of your roommate (s) by keeping your part of the room tidy. Put your clothes and personal care items away and keep them in their appropriate spot—this will be much easier if have storage options that maximize your space, and if you bring only the essentials.

How to free up space on a hanger?

Soda tabs. Next time you crack open an aluminum can, set aside the tab to use as a cheap and effortless space-saver: “Slip a soda tab onto a hanger’s hook then attach another hanger and article of clothing off the tab.” This will free up rod and hanger space in your closet.

Who said you'll be less likely to hang onto things that don't serve you or your space?

Thomann adds, “If you look at your belongings with these questions in mind, you’ll be less likely to hang onto things that don’t serve you or your space.”

Can you make a room feel homey?

This doesn’t mean you can’t make your room feel homey and attractive. “Add personality to your space with items that will also serve a distinct purpose, like brightly colored wall hooks that can hang pictures and your keys,” Thomann says.

Do college freshmen move into dorms?

College freshmen are finally beginning to move into campus housing—and possibly away from home for the first time. If you’re one of those first-years wondering what to leave, what to bring, or how you’ll make the most of your small dorm room, look no further! University at Buffalo alumna Lauren Thomann (2007), a Senior Content Strategist at Life Storage in Williamsville, NY who we recently profiled, is an expert on maximizing space and minimizing clutter, and she has shared with us her tips on how to make the most out of your home at college.

How to save space in a dorm?

While the closet may be a prime source of storage in a dorm, it’s limited. One easy way to save space? Skip the bulky hangers. Certified professional organizer Mackenzie Scott, of Mission 2 Organize, recommends slim hangers—either felt or plastic will do—to maximize the capacity of the closet.

What do you need for a dorm room?

A typical dorm room is equipped with three basics: a bed, a desk, and a dresser. In the limited confines of what you’re allotted, finding extra storage space can be challenging. Factor in a roommate and things are bound to get even cozier. Whether you’re setting off for your first semester of college or you’re a seasoned vet who has done drop-offs for years, there’s a thing or two to learn when it comes to organizing and shopping for a dorm.

Why is it important to organize your desktop?

An organized desktop is essential for carving out a productive workspace, especially since the space will probably be getting a lot of use. Consider your work style and whether you operate well with visual clutter, says professional organizer Tana Ching. If you’re okay with being surrounded by piles of textbooks and notepads, she recommends grouping materials by subject matter and clearly labeling them. If you prefer things to be out of sight, opt for a portable file box to keep your staples in line without having to clutter your desktop.

Can you share a bathroom in a dorm?

Living in a dorm room usually translates to using a communal bathroom. “The best method for bathroom sharing is to get a bath caddy, especially if your bath area is down the hall or not attached to your room,” Scott says. It will not only make it easy to tote essentials back and forth but also give the items a dedicated home.

Where is Extra Space Storage located?

Space isn't just limited to the horizontal dimension— according to Extra Space Storage, a national self-storage facility headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, taking advantage of vertical spaceis the key to maximizing a small space.

Can you put a dresser in a closet?

Instead of only using the floor, the hanging rods, and the top shelf, you can utilize the extra space in between. Consider moving a dresser into the closet itself instead of having it sit out in the room and take up space—that can open up a lot of room that you didn't know you had.

Do retired people go to school at home?

Nowadays, many working adults, high school graduates, and retired lifelong learners are choosing to advance their careers, lives, and personal knowledge by completing school at home.

Do dorms have space?

Dorm rooms aren't known for their space, but maximizing what you have will help you make your college experience a little less cramped. Use these tips and you'll be well on your way to a more organized, spacious dorm.