I’ve said it once, and I’ll say it again, getting a break from prepping for all things college this summer has been more than pleasant, since I know it’s right around the corner again. There’s just something about sending off your firstborn that adds a lot of stress… and I dealt with that last year by over-preparing in the ‘things-you-may-need’ department. Shocker. While I do regret buying the Q-tip organizer {especially when I packed it back up for him this spring and saw that he hadn’t touched it – it was definitely purchased at my height of anxiety), I don’t regret the first aid kit. Each child is different, and so is every living situation. So, we took the time to round up some of our very favorite essentials —tried and true, recommended by parents everywhere. Whether they’re living in a dorm room or their first apartment, here they are: College Essentials They’ll Actually Use!

For the record, we’re pretty sure his bedding never looked that good again…

{Some of these contain affiliate links. Thank you for understanding!} Oh, and did I mention that a lot of these essentials are cute, too? Because we couldn’t help ourselves…

1. A lot of kids need over-the-toilet storage. This is the cutest one I’ve seen yet!
2. Those bed caddies are always smart, especially in dorm rooms.
3. This folding lap desk is perfect for those bed-top study sessions. And they slide away neatly when not in use.  
4. I prefer to use a steamer anyway, but this one doubles as a tiny iron + comes highly rated.
5. This reading pillow comes in multiple shades, and just like a good dress… comes with a pocket. 
6. I could use this lamp now for late-night reading, and I’m not even in college. 
7. A charger for on-the-go that supports pass-through charging as well? Brilliant. 
8. Do not pass go, do not collect 200 dollars. You go straight to jail without one of these. 
9. This personal alarm comes in multiple colors.
10. Our oldest used this hamper in the bottom of his closet last year. It was perfect for wheeling to the laundry area.
11. Don’t go to school without these. When his roomie had them, I immediately shipped some – he used them all year. 
12. Never underestimate the power of a handy vacuum.
13. Door stoppers for the win! You’ll need them for move-in, and they’ll use them later for socializing.  
14. A sound machine that adults use, too. Our kids all own one. 
15. This for the bottom of their closet. Or their kitchenette. Or their desk area… 
16. These for move-in {and move out} day. We all packed in them for the beach, too. You’ll thank us later. 
17. These hangers to utilize clothing storage. 
18. These for hanging smaller things, especially with the strict pinhole rule. They served us well. No damage charges.
19. The infamous WOOZOO fan. 
20. An air purifier. Depending on where they’re living, you’ll be glad they have one. 
21. Bed risers. Some beds are adjustable, but we even used them to install his headboard this past year. 
22. We couldn’t help but include this adorable travel bag. 
23. Because everyone I know needs a backlit mirror. 
24. He loves this mattress topper. This one was highly recommended. He said his bed at home isn’t as comfy. 
25. A rolling cart just makes me happy. A smart solution for groceries, school supplies and more. 
26. These are great for top-of-closet storage or bottom, too. Fold down when not in use. 
27. We use these hangers everywhere. 
28. This desk organizer was perfect for him last year. 
29. Delicate bags are handy even at home, but especially for those large loads. 
30. If BRITA isn’t on your list, it needs to be at the top. Ours made it, ironically, to the bottom. Non-stop use. 

To see more of his first apartment, check it out here! 

And see the entire list here!
What are some essentials your college student couldn’t live without? Drop them here. We’d love to see. Have an inspired day!