8 Kitchen Essentials For Your College Dorm Room
- 5 Min Read
- We created a list of essential kitchen items that students need for their dorm room.
- Every item on the list includes a need vs. want rating score, product recommendations, and helpful student commentary.
- Kitchen essentials are indicated by a checkmark and you can click on any item to jump to our review.
Microwave & Mini Fridge
Need vs. Want Rating
Products We Recommend
Frequently Asked Questions
Most of your meals will be at on-campus dining locations, but having a mini-fridge and microwave in your dorm room is convenient for quick snacks and cold drinks. We recommend you review your school’s policy on dorm appliances before purchasing since some prohibit them or have restrictions in place. Many universities that allow their use will also have a rental program available to students.
Coffee Maker, Water Filter, & Water Bottle
Need vs. Want Rating
Products We Recommend
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequent coffee drinkers should consider bringing a single cup coffee maker for their dorm room. While there’s plenty of places to buy coffee on campus, you can save a lot of money and time by making your own. It’s also nice not having to stand in crazy long lines!
Eating Utensils &
Cups/Plates/Bowls
Need vs. Want Rating
Products We Recommend
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s helpful to have a few plates, bowls, cups, and eating utensils in your dorm room for quick snacks. Most students use disposable cutlery, dinnerware, and red solo cups to avoid the hassle of cleaning.
Tupperware
& Ziploc Bags
Need vs. Want Rating
Products We Recommend
Frequently Asked Questions
Tupperware is great for students who like storing leftovers in the fridge or bringing their food to campus. While you don’t need to bring the 64 piece deluxe set to college, it’s helpful to have a few sandwich size containers for your room. Most students also bring a small pack of Ziploc bags for storing snacks and other dorm supplies.
Pots, Pans,
& Dish Scrubber/Soap
Need vs. Want Rating
Products We Recommend
Frequently Asked Questions
If your dorm has a communal kitchen then you might want to consider bringing a pot and pan for cooking meals. You’ll also need to bring a dish scrubber and dish soap.
Easy Snacks & Drinks
Need vs. Want Rating
Products We Recommend
Frequently Asked Questions
Most students underestimate how often they’ll end up eating in their dorm room. Freshmen usually don’t have a car and going to the grocery store can be a hassle, so we recommend bringing enough snacks to last you about a month. A lot of campuses also have small convenience stores with microwaveable meals, drinks, and snacks, but buying in bulk is still way cheaper.