More accessories to consider
All of our Wired everyone has sophisticated desk settings that make working from home easier. You don’t have to work hard for the dormitory, and you may only have that much space anyway. For more options, see our full work guide, but these are our favorite desktop accessories worth considering – and there are more dorm room options.
Photo: Kat Merck
Priced at $25: I’ve been testing this small cordless fan for our best fan guide all summer and my friend’s son just brought it to the first year at the University of Colorado. Moving in will be hot, and not only is this fan powerful, its 8-inch-high body fits the suitcase, but it is USB-C rechargeable and quiet enough (below the low decibels) that it won’t bother roommates or interfere with research. – Kat Merck
Benq Screenbar Computer LED Light, priced at $109: Wired editor Julian Chokkattu swears to this desk lamp that it can only be used if there is an external monitor on your desk. It hangs on the top of the screen and illuminates your workspace. Most importantly, it takes up zero space on the table!
Monomer Ultra-Wide Length Microfiber Table Pad, Priced at $25: If you want to add a separate keyboard and mouse, this mat is soft and can double as a mouse pad.
The IKEA Skubb’s baseboard storage box costs $10: When current wired reviewer Medea Giordano lives in a tiny New York City prison cell (ER, apartment), she stores four of the storage boxes under the bed to secure every piece of clothing that the closet can’t accommodate. There is plenty of room under the college bed, and these rooms can accommodate off-season outfits, shoes or anything else you need, like party supplies. Amazon also has many options.
dalykate backpack laundry bag for $17: You may need to hike the laundry to several flights on the laundry room. This basket has a pocket that holds your detergent and backpack strap for portability and is not as bulky as a laundry basket. This is why cable editor Julian Chokkattu used it to go to the laundry.
$50 Alligator Classic Wood Logs: You need a pair of shower shoes. Trust me when I say you don’t want to deal with athletes’ feet in a college dormitory. These are my favorite shared shower favorites – they are easy to walk in, and when you wash your hands on a balanced foot on one leg, they are easy to slide out and they dry very quickly. Alternatively, you can use a dedicated trigger or slide. You may also want to bring some extra bath towels. Don’t forget bathroom toiletries!
Govee RGBIC LED light strip for $44: The string lights are cute, but they are not very fun. The room decoration is largely subjective, but we really like this lightweight belt from Goff. You can easily adjust colors and brightness using the smartphone app and you can adjust the lights to fit the space.
Basic cleaning supplies: When I first moved into the dormitory, I didn’t realize how much I forgot. Make sure you remember household essentials such as laundry detergent, tissues, dishwashing liquid, disinfectant wipes and towels. You may also need a little broom and trash can.
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