How to Make Your Dorm Room Livable

A few handy tricks can turn your school cell into a cozy suite.

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Up next in College Dorm Life Survival Guide (9 videos)

Whether you're new to college dormitory life or are an upperclassman, you can benefit from the tips in Howcast's video series on college dorm life.

You Will Need

  • A dorm room
  • An agreeable dorm mate
  • And some money

Steps

  1. Step 1

    Investigate dorm room

    Investigate dorm specifics before you spend any money. What furniture is provided? What items are prohibited, like certain kinds of lamps or electrical appliances?

  2. Step 2

    Buy reversible comforter

    Buy a reversible comforter that is machine-washable and has a color or pattern that hides dirt.

  3. Most dorm room beds are extra long, so purchase bedding accordingly.

  4. Step 3

    Buy large floor pillows

    Buy a few large floor pillows for propping yourself up in bed and to provide seating for guests.

  5. Step 4

    Raise bed w/ cinderblocks

    Raise your bed with cinderblocks to create storage space underneath. Place infrequently used items in plastic containers so they

  6. Step 5

    Hit local thrift shops

    Hit a couple of local thrift shops for deep discounts on scatter rugs that will warm up a cold institutional floor.

  7. Check out secondhand stores for old-fashioned hard suitcases, which can be stacked to create an end or coffee table while storing off-season clothing or bedding.

  8. Step 6

    Buy a shoe bag

    Buy a shoe bag in a color that complements your comforter and hang it on the wall near your desk. The pockets make great storage spots for small items.

  9. Step 7

    Make drapes

    Can

  10. Step 8

    String holiday lights

    String holiday lights around the room for a year-round festive feel.

  11. The average college freshman spent $344 on dorm d

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