• Video
  • Shop
  • Culture
  • Family
  • Wellness
  • Food
  • Living
  • Style
  • Travel
  • News
  • Book Club
  • GMA3: WYNTK
  • Newsletter
  • Privacy Policy
  • Your US State Privacy Rights
  • Children's Online Privacy Policy
  • Interest-Based Ads
  • Terms of Use
  • Do Not Sell My Info
  • Contact Us
  • © 2025 ABC News
  • Shop

Your ultimate checklist for an organized dorm room, according to an expert

3:03
The ultimate college dorm organizing checklist
ABC News Photo Illustration
ByClaire Peltier
August 03, 2024, 9:05 AM

Packing for college? We've got a checklist to ensure your dorm room is fully prepared.

Courtney Mason, general manager and vice president of The Spruce, is sharing the outlet's Ultimate Dorm Organizing Checklist with "Good Morning America." Plus, Mason has tips for outfitting a dorm room, small-space storage solutions and more.

Related Articles

A comprehensive guide to choosing the right laptop for kids heading back to school

By clicking on these shopping links, visitors will leave Goodmorningamerica.com. These e-commerce sites are operated under different terms and privacy policies than Goodmorningamerica.com. ABC will receive a commission for purchases made through these links. Influencers may receive a commission or have business relationships with a recommended brand. SOME PRICES ARE DYNAMIC AND MAY CHANGE FROM THE DATE OF PUBLICATION. Have questions about ordering or a purchase? Click here.

What is your No. 1 tip for outfitting a dorm room?

"Dorms are not known to be spacious and roomy, so the No. 1 tip for fitting a lot into a small space is looking for pieces that do double duty," Mason told "GMA."

Mason's multifunctional picks include a tufted storage ottoman and an ottoman that triples as storage and a waterproof coffee table.

Walmart

Better Homes & Gardens Round Tufted Storage Ottoman, Gray Faux Linen

  • $78
  • Walmart
Shop Now
Amazon

Chilihom Round Ottoman with Storage Set of 2

  • $118.99
  • Amazon
Shop Now

Mason recommended prioritizing for durability and avoiding costly items you don't plan to keep forever.

"Also, don't forget about the secret storage hero: the real estate on the back of the door," Mason said, recommending an over-the-door shoe organizer or toiletry holder.

Amazon

2 Pack Extra Large Hanging Crystal Clear Over Door Shoe Organizers

  • $20.99
  • Amazon
Shop Now

What's the best storage solution for a small space?

Mason recommends using clear bins for extra storage so you can see what's inside. The Spruce tests storage for its capacity, quality, durability and value, Mason said.

Amazon

Sterilite 60 Qt ClearView Latch Wheeled Underbed Storage Box

  • $79.96
  • Amazon
Shop Now

How can you keep all your cords organized for all your different devices?

"All these gadgets and electronics kids need at college have cords, and they are not so cute," Mason said. "You need a cord organizer."

16% off
Amazon

FABROK Cable Management Box with 10 Cable Ties

  • $19.99
  • $23.99
  • Amazon
Shop Now
Amazon

Touch Lamp with Alarm Clock Wireless Charging 3 Level Dimmable Bedside Lamps

  • $48.99
  • Amazon
Shop Now

Decor tips

"Most dorm rooms are concrete boxes," Mason said. "We encourage you to add personality."

Mason noted there are often limitations when it comes to decorating -- you can't use a hammer and nails and can't make permanent changes, for example -- and suggested using Command strips for hanging and adding your own lighting to spruce up your space.

43% off
Amazon

Command Medium and Large Picture Hanging Strips

  • $12.89
  • $22.99
  • Amazon
Shop Now
Amazon

Cordless Table Lamp Battery Operated

  • $29.99
  • Amazon
Shop Now
Pottery Barn Kids

Mini Rechargeable LED Desk Lamp (10")

  • $99
  • Pottery Barn Kids
Shop Now

More 'GMA' picks

Amazon

Amazon Basics Reversible Lightweight Microfiber Comforter Blanket, Twin/Twin XL, Black/Grey

  • $20.99
  • Amazon
Shop Now
Amazon

BAGSMART Toiletry Bag Travel Bag with Hanging Hook

  • $22.99
  • Amazon
Shop Now
Amazon

Amazon Basics Slim, Velvet, Non-Slip Shirt Clothes Hangers, Gray/Silver - Pack of 50

  • $24.73
  • Amazon
Shop Now
26% off
Amazon

Amazon Basics Rectangle Power Strip 3 Outlet 3 USB Ports, 1 USB-C and 2 USB-A

  • $10.95
  • $14.99
  • Amazon
Shop Now

Get more shopGMA! Sign up for our newsletter, and follow on Instagram and TikTok.

Up Next in Shop—

This week from 40 Boxes: Save 50% on Leo & Luca initial necklace and more

July 11, 2025

Shop the books seen on 'GMA' for your next read

July 11, 2025

Amazon Prime Day 2025: How long does it last and what's on sale?

July 11, 2025

Prime Day pet deals: Shop dog beds, cat trees, treats and more

July 11, 2025

Shop GMA Favorites

ABC will receive a commission for purchases made through these links.

Sponsored Content by Taboola

The latest lifestyle and entertainment news and inspiration for how to live your best life - all from Good Morning America.
  • Contests
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Do Not Sell My Info
  • Children’s Online Privacy Policy
  • Advertise with us
  • Your US State Privacy Rights
  • Interest-Based Ads
  • About Nielsen Measurement
  • Press
  • Feedback
  • Shop FAQs
  • ABC News
  • ABC
  • All Videos
  • All Topics
  • Sitemap

© 2025 ABC News
  • Privacy Policy— 
  • Your US State Privacy Rights— 
  • Children's Online Privacy Policy— 
  • Interest-Based Ads— 
  • Terms of Use— 
  • Do Not Sell My Info— 
  • Contact Us— 

© 2025 ABC News