Dorm Bedding Essentials: Your College Starter Kit

Essential Dorm Bedding Items

Here are some essential bedding items you’ll need for dorm life.

Mattress Topper

• Why It’s Essential: Let’s face it: dorm supplied mattresses are notoriously uncomfortable. A mattress pad or topper will give you some much-needed cushioning for added comfort.
• Types to Consider: Look for a mattress topper made of memory foam, gel-infused materials, a classic egg crate foam design, or keep an eye out for some hypoallergenic options if you suffer from allergies.
• Sizing: Twin XL is the most typical size dorm bed, so make sure you purchase the right size mattress topper for a perfect fit.

Mattress Protector

• Purpose: A mattress protector covers your mattress to prevent things like spills, allergens, and bed bugs from affecting your sleeping surface.
• Features to Look For: Keep an eye out for mattress protectors made of durable waterproof, hypoallergenic, and breathable materials.
• Ease of Cleaning: For easy maintenance and good hygiene, choose a protector that is machine washable.

Sheet Set

• Key Components: Dorm room comforter sets and bed bundles should include a fitted sheet, flat sheet, and comforter with at least one pillowcase.
• Material Choices: Make sure your new dorm sheets are made of quality materials. Try something breathable and ultra soft like organic cotton sheets to keep you comfy and cool. While they may cost more, organic cotton is a great option. A supersoft microfiber sheet set is affordable and has a soft, smooth surface. It’s also very easy to clean. A lot of dormitory bed sheets feature a jersey knit, which is also very soft but prone to pilling. In the winter, try flannel dorm sheet sets to keep you nice and warm.
• Fit and Size: Most dorm beds are Twin XL, so look for fitted sheets in the appropriate size to ensure that they fit your dorm bed properly.

Comforter or Duvet

• Choosing Between Them: Dorm room comforters go on top of your bed to keep you warm and are similar to a blanket. A duvet and duvet cover are another option, but you’ll need to purchase two separate items. However, you can remove the dorm duvet cover and wash it, which may make cleaning your dorm bedding essentials easier.
• Warmth Levels: If you’re attending college in a colder climate, consider the thickness of your comforter or duvet. Thicker items with a goose down alternative fill or an extra thick polyester fill are a lot warmer than a simple comforter with a thinner fill.
• Style and Color: Look for a comforter or duvet in a versatile, easy-to-coordinate color or pattern that reflects your unique personality and style.

Pillows

• Types of Pillows: Explore several pillow material options like memory foam, down alternative, or cooling pillows for better sleep.
• Quantity: You’ll only need one pillow for sleeping but grab a couple more to add colorful dorm room décor to your space and to get some extra support.
• Pillow Protectors: It’s a good idea to add some pillow protectors to your pillows for added hygiene and longevity.

Throw Blanket

• Purpose: Dorm quilts or throw blankets are great for added warmth or for adding some texture and color to the top of your dorm bed.
• Material Options: Look for throws made of cozy materials like fleece or knit, or try a weighted blanket, depending on your needs.
• Design: A throw blanket adds a fun layer of style and comfort to your bedding setup and adds a playful pop to plain white dorm bedding.

Additional Accessories for Dorm Bedding

Here are some remaining dorm essentials to add to your bed for the ultimate dorm room college essentials kit.

Bed Risers

• Why You Need Them: Bed risers can elevate your bed to create additional dorm room storage space underneath.
• Types: Look for a set of adjustable bed risers so you can change the dorm bed height or try some with built-in power outlets for charging devices like your laptop or smartphone.

Bedside Caddy

• Functionality: A bedside caddy keeps key essentials like your phone, books, and glasses nearby and within arm’s reach.
• Attachment Options: Check the bedside caddy dimensions to make sure it’s big enough to fit all your stuff and look for designs that will attach securely to the side of your bed.

Decorative Throw Pillows

• Adding Personality: Throw pillows are an easy, affordable way to introduce color, texture, and style to your dorm room (and some more warmth).
• Practicality: To get the most bang for your buck, choose throw pillows that are comfortable enough to use, not just for decoration.

Bed Skirt

• Purpose: A bed skirt is the perfect way to hide items like clothing stored under the bed while also giving your bed a clean, crisp, and more polished look.
• Easy Installation: Keep an eye out for stylish bed skirts designed specifically for a twin XL dorm bed or adjustable beds for easy installation and cleaning.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What type of bedding is best for college?

In most cases, you’ll have a twin XL bed in your dorm, but confirm with your college before you buy new bedding. Look for high-quality, affordable bedding that is easy to clean and that will keep you comfortable for a great night’s sleep.

Do college dorms have bedding?

Most colleges do not provide bedding for students. They will provide a bed and basics like a closet or dresser, but it’s up to you to purchase the rest of your important basic necessities yourself.

Do you really need Twin XL sheets for college?

It’s unlikely that you’ll have a full or queen bed size in college. Most universities have twin XL beds, which means you’ll likely need twin XL sheets for a good, snug fit.