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Shower shoes for grimy communal bathrooms and a thermometer for whatever illness is making its way through the dorm are quite essential.

I am a Shopping & Products contributor and former BuzzFeed Shopping fellow who covers tech, fashion, cleaning, beauty, and budget-friendly alternatives to cult-fave products.

Promising review: "College dorm essential. Basic Mattresses provided by schools are hard, and uncomfortable. Using this you do not have to worry about further problems down the road regarding body pains. This Pas lasted longer than 4 years, and stayed in perfect condition." —Jessica Monique Campbell

Get the Twin XL size from Amazon for $42.99+ (available in sizes twin–California king, three thickness levels, and three styles).

Promising reviews: "Affordable essential. These sheets get the job done. They come in a variety of colors and, best of all, they’re a great price. It’s easy to get stains out of them." —Kamaria White

"Sheets overall seem like they're good quality. They are a little thin, but they work great for teen/dorm beds. You can’t beat the price either because chances are they will get thrown away." —Chlop

Get a set of Twin XL sheets from Amazon for $11.81+ (available in four other sizes and 35 colors/designs).

Promising reviews: "Dorm essential. My college kids love these pillows for their dorm rooms, but decided I need them for my home!" —Alison J.

"These are seriously the most comfortable pillows I’ve ever slept with, feels like I am sleeping on a cloud! I purchased them for home and loved them so much I purchased them again for my dorm at school because I just couldn’t live without them! I’ve had them for years and they have stayed the same since the day I got them. I couldn’t recommend something more!" —Nathan Forbes

Get a set of two standard-sized pillows from Amazon for $41.97 (available in two other sizes and a memory foam style).

Promising reviews: "Essential for the college dorm room!" —Olga Bernstein

"I live in a dorm and ran out of space for my flats and sneakers. I was able to put this on my closet door to gain more shoe organization! I have size 11 shoes and these fit great. I put one shoe in each pocket. I would fit two in each but it doesn't hang as well. I put two sandals or flip flops in each. I have had no problems or complaints :)." —Sarah Jaworski

Get it from Amazon for $9.47+ (available in eight colors and with large or extra-large pockets). 

Promising reviews: "Essential for cool drinks! Love this product. It’s so cute and portable. Keeps my drinks cool. The little divider is removable, but there isn’t a good built in slot to put it somewhere." —Nita C.

"Perfect for dorm. Keeps my drinks cold! This is perfect for mini waters or mini cans! Perfect for college because it's so small! Get it!" —Kathy

Get it from Amazon for $49.99+ (available in four colors/styles).

Promising review: "College essential. This is a core college send-off shopping list item. It is well constructed and organized. And it is big. I mean, if you filled every pocket, you'd have 95% of what you need on a trip to the bathroom in a dorm, and it is so big that filling it can make it heavy. My daughter said it is great, but for nighttime wash up, she needs only a few things, and so might want a smaller version. But this one does what it is supposed to and it does it well." —progo

Get it from Amazon for $7.99+ (available in 11 and various bundles).

Promising review: "I wear these shoes around the house sometimes outside they are the most comfortable most sturdy shoes ever I recommended to all my friends they are definitely an essential to have in your closet." —Teagan Rooney

Promising review: "Hands-down best shower shoes! Comfy, great support, non-slip, I do NOT trip because the soles are so thick, they don't slide off while wet and walking back from my shower area down the haul from my dorm room, and don't make a squishing sound when walking. They do run a half size larger than order. Size 7 is size 7.5. However, being a half size larger actually made them more efficient." —Stormy W.

Get it from Amazon for $20.35+ (available in women's sizes 4–16, men's sizes 3–14, and 14 colors).

Promising reviews: "Essential for my apartment with minimal sockets! I’m able to charge all of my devices at once. I also appreciate how long the cord is." —Blair B

"Get this for a dorm room!!!! With all the different equipment and charging outlets students need these days this charging cube helps in all areas! Keeping them organized and fully charged. We love how it sits flat on the table and [is] easy to access on all sides [since] the cord is nice and [thick] and won’t get tangled. Everyone needs one of these if you have a lot of gadgets." —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $9.99 (available in three colors, five lengths, and several styles).

Promising reviews: "I recently purchased this large, soft blanket for my couch, and I couldn't be happier with it! From the moment I unboxed it, I was impressed by its luxurious feel. The fabric is incredibly soft and cozy, making it perfect for snuggling up during chilly evenings. The size is ideal—it covers the entire couch comfortably, so it’s great for draping over the back or spreading out for added warmth. I love how versatile it is; whether I’m watching TV, reading a book, or taking a nap, this blanket is my go-to companion. The quality is top-notch, with a plush texture that doesn’t shed or lose its softness after repeated washes. It’s also surprisingly lightweight, which makes it easy to handle and store. The color options are fantastic, and the one I chose blends seamlessly with my living room decor. Overall, I highly recommend this blanket to anyone looking for a cozy, stylish addition to their home. It’s become an essential part of my relaxation routine, and I’m sure it will be a favorite for years to come!" —Chiara Flattery

"Oh my goodness!! This blanket throw is so soft!!! My daughter got it for her dorm bed to snuggle with to remind her of the comforts of home. This is super high quality without the high price tag. Is thick and very well made." —Robin Strahl

Get the Queen size from Amazon for $28.25+ (available in eight other sizes and 32 colors). 

Promising reviews: "Dorm essential. Got the one with wheels for easy rolling down to laundry mat in the dorm." —Growler Girl

"Why did you pick this product vs others? As marketed, nicely sized, easy to assemble. Among reasons for purchasing: Removable, washable mesh bag. Narrow, tidy yet spacious profile unlike so many unnecessarily space-hogging bins. Attractive neutral color. Wheels." —Denmama

Get it from Amazon for $17.99+ (available in three sizes and four colors).

And if you want to stock up on Brita filters, you can get a six-count on Amazon for $36.49. Each filter lasts about two months, filtering 40 gallons of water.

Promising reviews: "As a broke college student, clean water was essential. I love this, it is my most valued asset in life." —Amazon Customer

"Originally bought this for my college dorm when my roommate suggested we get one. I loved it for that year and continued to use it now that I live in an apartment. I hope to use this pitcher for as long as I can! Its size is ideal for one or two people (not so much a family). Refilling is easy and you need to buy a new filter every couple of months but that is expected. Great buy." —Morgan

Get it from Amazon for $28.33+ (available in three colors and two models).

Promising review: "Weirdly essential item. This is such an odd little hanger I never knew existed. They’re so versatile that they can fit weird sized wardrobes and kids closets. These are neat and affordable. Also come in cute colors if you’re into fashionable hangers or something." —Dan H.

Promising review: "Overall I'd say these are a good purchase. Magic space saving hangers with nine Holes can can hang nine pieces of clothes for one time. They save a lot of space in my closet by organising clothes at slightly different heights, which also makes it easier to find clothes. What's more is that the different colors help me classify my clothing. This closet organizer comes in packs of six which is great for the cost. Good stuff for my dorm room essentials." —Wenwei

Get a six-pack from Amazon for $13.99 (also available in four- and 10-packs). 

Promising review: "The size is perfect for staying hydrated throughout the day, and the double-walled insulation keeps my drinks cold for hours. The handle is comfortable to grip, making it easy to carry around, and the included straw is a great touch for sipping. I appreciate the variety of colors available, too—each one looks sleek and modern. Overall, this tumbler is a fantastic blend of style and practicality, making it an essential for anyone on the go!" —Ali El-Khatib

Promising review: "I bought one of these for my daughter to take to school as it boasts being leak-proof. It is legit leak-proof. This falls over in my daughter's bag and never spills. It also retains its coldness all day. I like that we can fill it before school and it's enough for the whole school day. She was even able to add stickers to it and they stayed on, even through the dishwasher. I did end up buying straw caps, but you have to buy the ones for the bigger straws. I loved hers so much, I bought one for myself and it is awesome! It's fallen over in the car and my work bag, but I never have to worry because it doesn't leak. It is worth the few extra bucks for this brand. They're super durable and the straw is soft, and it is dishwasher safe." —Bre

Get the 40 oz. bottle from Amazon for $44.99+ (also available in a smaller 30 oz. or 20 oz. bottle and 24 colors/designs).

And if you want the green reusable cleaning pads (like the ones pictured above), you can get them on Amazon for $12.99.

Promising reviews: "Home care essential. I have wanted a Swiffer Wet Jet for years. I honestly don’t know why I never got one. I have been mopping traditionally since forever, but this is a game changer. I love the ease of use over traditional mopping, but most importantly, I love that I’m not using a germ-infested mop. Once you go Swiffer Wet Jet, you can’t go back!" —Denise C.

"Very easy to put together. Recommend for college dorm floors! They get dirty fast." —Jocelyn

Promising reviews: "I live in a dorm, so this was essential. It held up really heavy objects such as my backpack that was filled with books." —Ple

"I'm in a dorm so unless I want even more fees I am using these. They do their job and none of them have fallen yet, in fact, these have stuck to the wall better than the command strips did (make sure to clean the wall and to let it dry for a minute instead of being a dumbo like me). These work well and have removed well so far, though when you try to pull the hook up from the middle part it is a little difficult at first so I would remove that before you stick it to the wall and then place the hook back on it!" —Moe K.

Promising reviews: "Dorm essential. Fit my son’s dorm room bed perfectly. Nice quality and good price." —P. Barber

"Bought this set for my son for his Freshman year! He talks about how comfortable this made his bed. This size fits the XL mattress perfectly. Great matching set and color matches the image perfectly." —Rbuff

Get the Twin XL set from Amazon for $59.99+ (available in nine other sizes and 23 colors).

Promising review: "Dorm essential. This held up really well for my first year in college, and I suspect it would last several more years! It kept my bed nice and held my mattress pad in place (also a necessity). Overall, I'd highly recommend this to anyone living in a dorm." —Elizabeth Haroldson

Get a Twin XL size from Amazon for $34.99+ (available in six other sizes and four materials).

Promising reviews: "Essential for my bedroom. I didn't know I needed this until I stumbled upon it. It lights up my bedroom at night very nicely. I like using the level 2 brightness; it's just enough. My only gripe with the lamp is that when you try to move it around, it triggers the lamp to turn on or change brightness. So I have to grab the lamp by the shade. On the flipside, the touch base is super convenient and makes turning it on and off a breeze. I don't have to find a switch or unplug it to turn it off, [and I] never have to blind myself looking directly into it. Overall, for the price, [it's a] great small lamp with good brightness. Very convenient to use." —Matthew

"For the low price, I think this is a good lamp for a dorm nightstand. My child has a similar style at home now, but on her current one, she has to touch the pole and sometimes knocks it over. I’ve tested this one and you just need to touch the base. Much more stable. The lightbulb that comes with it is all plastic, which I’m not used to, but all three settings gave ample light. We both really like that she can charge her phone and AirPods right off the lamp. No having to find a charging cube." —Jennie Wilbourn

Get it from Amazon for $26.99+ (available in 23 variations, two sizes, and a two-pack).

Promising reviews: "Storage essentials! These boxes are ideal for any moving or storage situation. Great for books or other heavy objects where it is tempting to overpack — these boxes are a good size and design for lifting, etc. The clear plastic lets you see what is stored inside, so no mystery totes, and they are stackable for great and easy organization." —Amazon Customer

"These were durable for dorm move-in. They held lots and fit perfectly under the beds." —nicki ballew

Get a pack of six from Amazon for $84.99 (available in eight sizes and two-, three-, four- or 10-packs).

Promising review: "Essential for college students. These bags are well-made and have different zip seals and seals where you vacuum out the air. They are very helpful for when I have to travel, as I can fit two weeks' worth of clothes in a carry-on suitcase, as well as reduce the amount of space I need in a storage unit. In addition, the customer service is great. One of my bags developed a small tear, and they sent me a replacement, no questions asked." —HeroicMattias

Get a set of six from Amazon for $25.99 (available in various sizes and packs).

Promising reviews: "Essential. Quick. Adorable. We use this thing every morning to make two cups of coffee. It is fabulous. Easy to clean. Takes up little room on the counter. It’s so fast. Pop the coffee pod in and you have coffee in two minutes. We love this thing." —Consumer of the Year

"Bought this for my son’s college dorm room. It was so easy to set up and took up little space. He has used it to prepare a coffee in his room before he even heads to the dining hall for breakfast. Delivery to our house was fast and on time. Packaging was also nice as it was not excessive. Available in lots of colors!" —Argy Mom

Get it from Amazon for $71.95+ (available in four colors).

Promising reviews: "Perfect college dorm essential." —Rebecca Ahern

"This was purchased as part of the packing-for-college collection and it is perfect. It is small enough to store in a drawer or bathroom cabinet and contains all the basic essentials." —C&C in NC

Promising reviews: "An essential for your kitchen. I just love it!!" —Luisa preciado

"Perfect size for dorm. I ordered this super cute microwave for our daughter's dorm room. The color is perfect, as is the size. It works great and cooks everything as it should. It's not loud at all, which is great. Would absolutely recommend." —Ellyanne

Get it from Amazon for $89.99+ (available in three styles, three sizes, and nine colors).

Promising reviews: "Dorm essential. Bought these when I moved into my dorm and they are microwave safe, so that's pretty nice." —Eli

"We purchased these for my daughter’s dorm room and absolutely love them. The colors are fabulous and the quality was excellent. Bonus that they don’t have any of the chemicals of cheaper plastic sets. Win!" —Witherow

Get it from Amazon for $36.99 (available in seven color schemes).

Promising reviews: "High quality item. This is the second light we purchased so that my husband can have one. I like to read in bed and this has become an essential tool for me to focus light where needed. I use on high and it lasts about four hours. You could also use it in dark spaces to focus light hands free." —Raymond Petke

"Bought this for my daughter who is an avid reader and she loves it. She uses it at college every night so she doesn’t have to get up and turn off the light after she is done reading and ready for bed. It’s comfortable around her neck or she angles it next to her. Great battery life and love being able to adjust brightness." —Shelby Mascione

Get it from Amazon for $18.98+ (available in five colors).

Promising review: "A great vacuum and an essential for cleaning." —Kiamesha Denise Sims

Promising review: "Have two of these in my house and bought one for my daughter in college. No substitute for a full-size vacuum, but great for keeping up with dog hair, yard grasses, kitchen crumbs, etc." —K. Kinder

Promising review: "I bought this for my daughter’s dorm room, and it holds all the things at the edge of her bed. Such a great dorm essential!" —Teresa McCutcheon

Get this version from Amazon for $49.99 (available in three finished and various styles).

Promising review: "Essential airport bag. Smooth rolling ability." —Tee

Promising review: "This suitcase is beautiful, sturdy, and easily maneuvered around thanks to the spinner wheels (an absolute dream)! We bought the 24-inch orange suitcase from this collection. The orange color is vibrant and easy to pick out in a sea of suitcases! It made a trip to the big apple, and withstood a number of misfortunes on the streets of NYC. When a family member needed to transport items to a college dorm, but needed a suitcase that could pack a lot, but not take up too much space in the trunk of a small car, our suitcase was able to step up to the challenge, which included pulling the suitcase up a number of staircases. In all, we highly recommend this suitcase." —ME

Get it from Amazon for $72.06+ (available in five colors, three sizes, and a three-piece set).

And if you want a case and a little cleaning kit, you can snag those on Amazon, too, for $2.99+.

Promising review: "The most essential product. Definitely a must-have. I can’t live without my AirPods. [I] have tried every brand but these continue to be the best and most comfortable. Cord length could be longer and mad they don’t still include a charging brick in their products, but I can’t say enough good things about AirPods!" —Andrew W

Promising review: "My [fellow] college students, if you want a short explanation of what to expect, here's what I'd say. The noise [cancellation] is amazing, it's so advanced to the point that you may get a dizzy sensation the first time you put them in. But you'll get used to it. The music audio is a 10/10. Everything is crisp and fluent. If it doesn't fit you can put in a smaller/bigger earpiece size in (they send you a S/M/L/XL). If you're really sweaty or have a lot of jell in your ear, the AirPods may tend to slip out a little bit, but that's an easy fix. I personally LOVE bass. These AirPods provide a good kick. The mix of advanced noise cancellation + sound quality makes the bass sound super nice. So if you're looking for quality bass sound I'd recommend these AirPods... They also have manual features that you can use to change/skip/replay songs. Overall, I'd give these AirPod's a 9.5/10 with the only negative being the fact that it may fall out sometimes due to sweat." —Nicholas M

Promising review: "Solves the problem of "Oops, I drank a hot coffee, now I can't take my oral temperature!" by measuring external temp. Has become an essential tool in my minimalist home." —Valerie

"Great for a dorm first aid kit. It's portable and the material is easy to clean." —M

Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in five colors). 

Promising review: "Dorm essential. Love the color and softness, perfect for my college kids!" —Alison J

Promising review: "So fluffy and soft!! These towels were a great choice from the college freshman’s checklist. The color was deep and rich. They were so soft and fluffy we almost couldn’t get them in the backpack! Definitely a good deal!!" —Charles William Jr

Get a six-piece set from Amazon for $35.99+ (available in 21 colors and various sets).

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Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.