
Are you disappointed by the small size of your college dorm room or the dorm room you’ll live in while studying or working overseas? Don’t worry. We’ve got you covered!
In this article, we’ve compiled 12 budget-friendly minimalist dorm room hacks that will help you maximize your space and live like a boss. From storage and organization to privacy and decor, these hacks cover everything you need to know to make the most of your small living space.
So, read on to discover how to create a peaceful and relaxing dorm room that reflects your personal style in a minimalist way.
1. Utilize the space under the bed: Find one here [Amazon]

- Use organizer bags to store your quilts, photo frames, unused clothes, gifts, etc.
- Store sports equipment like golf sticks, football, tennis racket, and helmets.
- Use wooden boxes or crates from college or nearby places to store stuff.
2. Get a rolling cart as a bedside table: Check this [Amazon]

- Assign each shelf for a specific purpose such as medicine, moisturizer, sleep masks, books, bottles, cups, or magazines.
- Use it as a side table, coffee table, and storage cabinet.
3. No bed in front of the cupboards:
- Place your dorm bed 90 degrees to the cupboards to save space.
4. Fold the clothes to save space:

- Roll and fold clothes “space-savingly” to save 40% of your closet space.
- Watch tutorials on how to fold clothes efficiently.
5. Use mood lighting for a homey effect:

- Get fixtures that can compensate for each type of situation, such as a low-light and romantic moonlight lamp, string lights, or a holographic gorilla lamp.
6. Don’t miss the “Mighty” Ottoman: Check this [Amazon]

- Buy an ottoman with a storage unit to have a sitting unit and a storage compartment.
- Place organizers in the drawers:
- Use drawer organizers to handle your essentials such as undergarments, stationery, perfumes, or towels.
- Choose modern adjustable divider packs for more versatility and personalization.
- Utilize the window sill:
- Use the window sill to put your vases, stationary containers, bottles, watches, or hairbands.
- Hooks and magic tape everywhere:
- Attach your frames on the walls with magic tape instead of putting them on the shelves.
- Install a curtain behind the bed with adhesive hooks.
- Hang jewelry on one wall for creating a focal area.
- Don’t miss the vertical space:
- Attach wall-mounted baskets on the wall to keep flowers, cleaning essentials, or groceries.
- Use hanging bookshelves to clear up space on your desk.
- Use over-the-door laundry baskets and shoe-racks as space-savers.
- Use pegboards to hold your tools, decorations, notice boards, and hanging items.
- Remember to use the legroom of the study table:
- Utilize the space under the table to store shoe racks, assignment sheets in a box, books, or ottoman.
- Hanging mirrors make your space look bigger:
- Use hanging mirrors to create an illusion of openness in small spaces.
Additional ideas:
- Use multi-functional furniture such as a sofa bed or a storage ottoman.
- Use a bed riser to create more space under the bed.
- Use a tension rod to create more hanging space in your closet.
- Use stackable crates or baskets to store your items.
- Use an over-the-door mirror to save space.
- Use command strips to hang your items on the walls without damaging them.
In conclusion, creating a minimalist dorm room can be a great way to simplify your life and reduce stress during your time in college. By implementing the hacks and tips we’ve discussed, you can transform your living space into a serene and clutter-free environment that promotes focus and productivity.
Remember, minimalism is not just about getting rid of possessions but also about cultivating a mindful and intentional approach to living. So, take time to evaluate your needs and wants, and carefully curate the items in your room to reflect your values and priorities.
With a bit of creativity and effort, you can transform your dorm room into a peaceful oasis that helps you thrive in college and beyond. Good luck!