13 Crazy-Affordable Ikea Picks For Dorm Life and Beyond

Every editorial product is independently selected by our editors. If you buy something through our links, we may earn commission.

Ikea is a go-to shopping destination for small-space dwellers or shoppers on a budget. In short, it's perfect for anyone doing their back-to-school shopping. When it comes to outfitting the perfect dorm room, students need to invest in pieces that will make studying a breeze or that can do double duty — and Ikea excels at creating both. We've rounded up 13 essentials from the Swedish retailer, products that will either make the most of limited dorm room square footage or will assist in making the difficult school year slightly easier.

01
An Easy Hanging Storage System

An Easy Hanging Storage System

Make the most of limited closet space with clever storage solutions like Ikea's Komplement Multi-Use Hanger ($8).

02
A Simple and Chic Duvet Combo

A Simple and Chic Duvet Combo

The Björnloka Ruta Duvet Cover and Pillowcases ($20) will add pizzazz to a small room without completely overwhelming the space.

03
A Magnetic Message Board

A Magnetic Message Board

Upgrade from the basic white dry-erase board with a Spontan Magnetic Board ($13).

04
Functional Art

Functional Art

Jazz up a dorm room with Ikea's Pjätteryd Set of Three Pictures ($15), which looks good and just might help in geography class.

05
A Dark Throw

A Dark Throw

You can use the Gurli Throw ($13) without fear of stains thanks to its dark color and loose knit.

06
A Cord Solution

A Cord Solution

Say goodbye to desk mess with Ikea's Kvissle Cable Management Box ($10).

08
A Retro Wall Clock

A Retro Wall Clock

Bring a throwback vibe to an otherwise high-tech dorm room with a Pugg Stainless Steel Wall Clock ($11). Bonus: you'll never be late for class.

09
A Bright White Light

A Bright White Light

Ikea's Ranarp Floor Lamp doesn't take up much space but offers a great deal of light.

10
Inexpensive Towels

Inexpensive Towels

Bath linens see a lot of use at college, and students won't feel too bad if they have to bring their Fräjen Bath Towel ($6) along to a games day on the quad.

11
An Underbed Storage Solution

An Underbed Storage Solution

Take advantage of extra storage space by packing a Vardö Underbed Storage Box ($30 each).

12
A Collapsable Laundry Hamper

A Collapsable Laundry Hamper

The beauty of the Fyllen Laundry Basket ($8) is that it can be folded up and stored away when not in use.

13
Storage Stools

Storage Stools

Ikea's Sprutt Storage Stools ($35 for set of two) serve multiple purposes.