Dorm rooms always come with the basics: a bed, desk, uncomfortable mattress, and a standard desk chair. Adding some extra decor and a few upgrades can really help you settle in to make it feel more like home. Here are a few ideas to turn your room into a secluded oasis for studying, sleeping, and just hanging out.

Mattress Topper

To go along with the mattress cover on your bed, look into an upgraded memory foam topper to add a little extra comfort. Your back will thank you later (and so will those test scores)!

External Monitor

Most students lug around their laptop from class to class, but it's always nice to have a way to plug into a larger screen when doing homework. 

Bed Risers

Dorm rooms are tiny! The extra space you gain from bed risers will change the dynamic in your room by creating extra storage space. You can even find some with USB or electrical outlets as well to plug in your phone by your bedside table. 

Additional Sitting Areas

Look into a floor pouf or even an ottoman for guests to sit on when they come to visit. There are options available from $50+ at various locations but guaranteed you can find one to fit your dorm room vibe.

TV Sticks

Did you know there are various TV sticks that include headphone jacks to watch tv while your roommate is sleeping? That way, if you feel like pulling an all-nighter on a project with your favorite show on Netflix in the background, you won't need to worry about waking others up.

Area Rug

Let's try not to think now many bare feet have walked across the dorm room floors‚ not to mention the sad, beige or brown carpets that are generally installed in all the halls. Add a pop of color to liven your living space with an area rug. It will protect your floor from spills during the semester helping you get that fall deposit back as well.

College is stressful, but arguably one of the best times of your life! Make your time there a little easier by creating extra comfort in your living space. If you need decorating inspiration, there are some crazy impressive dorm tours to gather more ideas from on YouTube.