12 of the Best Kitchen Essentials You Need for Your Dorm

If you’re heading to college or have a loved one who is, it’s time to stock up on some home basics. While most dorms aren’t equipped with full kitchens, there are a few essentials you should have for the times when you don’t feel like trekking to the dining hall for food. If you’re not sure where to begin, we’ve rounded up some of the best dorm-friendly kitchen items that you shouldn’t overlook when planning the dorm of your dreams.

The ways you can use a rolling cart are virtually endless. Use it as a nightstand, extra storage, or a makeshift pantry — this can basically be your kitchen on wheels. Aside from an Instant Pot, you can store your snacks, plates and utensils, small appliances, and more on each of the tiers.

This mini fridge can be stocked with your breakfast essentials, favorite beverages, and all the leftovers, plus has space for a few pints of ice cream and frozen pizza. At 3.2 cubic feet, it’s just the right size to share with a roomie, and there’s also space for a can dispenser and a 2-liter bottle storage rack.

“Alexa, microwave popcorn.” How cool would it be to surprise your new friends during a movie night in with a voice-controlled microwave? This compact, Alexa-enabled microwave can reheat everything from coffee during those late night study sessions to last night’s pizza. Remember to check your dorm restrictions before purchasing a microwave — some schools don’t allow microwaves in individual dorm rooms.

It may look like a tiny to-go container, but it’s actually an egg maker than can perfectly make two eggs in your microwave in under a minute. It’s like magic, especially when you’re a college student in a morning rush. (We actually have one in the office and can confirm that it’s a must-have.)

There are lots of snacks involved in a dorm room. Keep those chips fresh for longer (if you can keep yourself from finishing the bag) with these bag clips. And they’re easy to keep track of since you can keep them on your mini-fridge when not in use — plus, it’ll be hard to miss those bright colors.

It’s definitely a good idea to have a few plates, bowls, and cups lying around your dorm room. If you’re trying to stock up on a tiny budget, you can’t do better than the Room Essentials collection at Target. Every product is priced at less than $1, so you can have a set for two for under $10.

A 16-piece flatware set with service for four is such an easy transitional item to take you from your dorm room to your first apartment. The included caddy makes it easy to contain all your silverware with no drawer space, and can be stored just about anywhere.

Food containers are perfect for toting snacks to class and maybe sneaking some leftovers from the dining hall. This 6-piece set is made of glass and is safe for microwave, freezer, oven, and dishwasher use — plus, it’s more eco-friendly than the plastic alternatives.

If you’re freaking out about needing plenty of caffeine for those 8 a.m. classes and late night study sessions, a Keurig single-serve coffee maker will get you through the day. The different color options are a fun way to add some personality to your space, and you’ll also save money in the long run by not buying pricey lattes every day.

A compact, personal blender is a great dorm room option if you love a post-workout protein shake or starting your day with a green smoothie. This Magic Bullet set is our go-to, and includes 11 pieces for all your blending needs.

Keep a coffee mug around that doubles as a conversation starter. Urban Outfitters’ collection of quirky mugs has plenty of fun options, but we especially love this adorable sloth for morning coffee.

You most likely won’t have a sink in your room, so a water filter pitcher is vital for keeping cold water close by. This 5-cup Brita has a slim profile and will fit nicely in a mini-fridge, and is the perfect size for two to share.