dorm therapy

10 Last-Minute Dorm Essentials to Make Your Space Feel More Like Home

Britt FranklinSenior Editor, Shopping
Britt FranklinSenior Editor, Shopping
As a blogger turned journalist, I love tapping into curiosity that drives us to curate spaces that truly embody our vision. I test products for a living, which puts me at the forefront of trendy and innovative gadgets and gizmos to make life at home more fun and efficient.
published Aug 7, 2025
Apartment Therapy received compensation for this post, which was written and edited independently by our editorial team.
Modern decorated dorm room.
Credit: Walmart

One of my biggest challenges when moving into a dorm room was making the space feel comfortable on my terms. After all, I couldn’t exactly haul all of my home comforts to a smaller, shared space. That provided an opportunity to pick out new items and really create a home away from home. My roommates and I often relied on Walmart for budget-friendly furniture, organization solutions, and linens, and right now you can score back-to-school flash deals for up to 65% off. Here are 10 of my favorite dorm finds for all those last-minute finishing touches.

Mainstays 14pc College Dorm Essentials Bedding Bundle
$72

Grab all your bedding in one go with this 14-piece College Dorm Essentials Bundle that comes in four color combinations and three sizes (Twin XL, Full, and Queen). Inside, you’ll find a reversible comforter, flat sheets, fitted sheets with 12-inch pockets, pillowcases, bath towels, a shower caddy, blanket, fabric tote for laundry or storage, and a plush backrest pillow.

$72 at Walmart
Novogratz Cache Metal Locker Style Living Room End Table
$129$53

This petite metal locker makes a great side table or nightstand that’s bound to stand out. Just be sure to grab yours as soon as possible because many colors are already gone! Each shelf has a capacity of 15 to 20 pounds, while the locker’s top has a 40-pound capacity. It also comes with a lock and key to keep your belongings secure.

$53 at Walmart
Keurig K-Mini Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker
$89$75

When my brother started college five years ago, I gave him my old Keurig that he uses even today! But this K-Mini machine is newer and slimmer, and even conserves water because it doesn’t have a reservoir. It comes in six colors and features built-in cord storage to keep your counters tidy.

$75 at Walmart
Fruit Cherry Bath Mat
$26$22

Give your bathroom or bedroom some fun flair with this fruit-shaped rug that can be used as an absorbent bath mat. It features non-slip backing and fluffy tufting that makes it extra cozy under your feet.

$22 at Walmart
Mainstays Neutral Faux Fur Throw
$10

This faux fur throw blanket from the Becky G. and Alejandra collection features a textured checkerboard design and lightweight feel. When you aren’t using it to stay warm, the blanket can be draped over your bed or sofa as a stylish accent.

$10 at Walmart
Ophanie Storage Bins with Lids, 3-Pack
$299$50

For an instant storage upgrade that won’t be an eyesore, look no further than these stackable storage bins. They come with a set of wheels so you can conveniently move them around as needed, and the bins feature front doors and a tray at the top for displaying and storing additional items.

$50 at Walmart
Mainstays Bouclé Cloud Storage Ottoman
$55

Maximize organization and comfort with this stylish ottoman that features a hidden compartment for extra storage. It features soft bouclé and comes in three popular colors: sage green, cream white, and blush pink.

$55 at Walmart
BEAUTYPEAK Arched Floor Mirror
$199$60

This editor-loved full-length mirror looks way more expensive than it actually is, and it even comes in five sizes and three finishes that you can blend into your space. Contributor Alicia has this mirror in her apartment, which gets a lot of natural light. “During the day, the light bounces off the mirror and makes the entire apartment brighter," she says.

$60 at Walmart
Costway Bathroom Storage Wooden 4 Drawer Cabinet
$149$80

For added storage in a blink, incorporate this freestanding cabinet into your space. You can use it to store extra towels and bedding, or you can turn it into a mini pantry for snacks and drinks while you lounge.

$80 at Walmart
BAOKALER 3-Tier Laundry Hamper Basket Sorter
$90$53

This small-space-friendly hamper is just right for small batches of laundry or storing socks, accessories, or extra linens. It’s on wheels, which makes it conveniently portable, and the tray on top makes an ideal spot for additional soft goods (think: washcloths, hair towels, and sleep masks) that don’t have a place of their own.

$53 at Walmart

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