With the new school year right around the corner, it's time to start thinking about what kind of electronics and small appliances you'll need to make your dorm room or off-campus apartment feel like home.
While there are plenty of things you could buy, we've narrowed down the list to 13 must-have items that will help make your life a little bit easier (and a lot more fun).
1. A single-serve coffee maker: For those early morning classes.
If you're a coffee lover, then a single-serve coffee maker is an absolute must-have. It is a great way to make sure you always have fresh, hot coffee on hand - no more waiting in line at the campus cafe! And it'll save you money in the long run and you won't have to deal with making a whole pot of coffee that you might not even finish.
2. A mini fridge: For storing all your food and drinks.
A mini fridge is a must for any dorm room or off-campus apartment. It's perfect for storing all your food and drinks, so you don't have to make daily trips to the grocery store (or the campus dining hall).
3. A mini oven master: For when you're craving something other than Ramen noodles.
If you're going to be living in a dorm room or small apartment, chances are you won't have access to a full-sized kitchen. But that doesn't mean you have to resign yourself to a diet of Ramen noodles and microwave meals. A mini oven master can help you make all kinds of delicious (and healthy) meals, even in a small space. It's perfect for baking, roasting and broiling, and it'll come in handy when you're entertaining friends or want to make a special occasion meal.
4. A smokeless indoor electric grill: For the perfect summer BBQ.
Grilling is one of the best ways to cook food, but it's not always possible (or safe) to do it indoors. That's where a smokeless indoor electric grill comes in handy. It's great for cooking up burgers, chicken, veggies - anything you would normally grill outdoors. And since it doesn't create any smoke, you won't have to worry about setting off the fire alarm or making your dorm room smell like a BBQ. Plus, it'll come in handy when you have friends over and want to make some fun, grilled snacks.
5. A blender: For healthy smoothies and frozen drinks.
A blender is another kitchen essential, especially if you like to make smoothies or frozen drinks. It's also great for making soups and sauces. If you don't have a lot of counter space, look for a handheld or immersion blender.
6. An air purifier: To help you breathe easy.
If you suffer from allergies or asthma, an air purifier is a necessity. It will help to remove any allergens or pollutants in the air, making it easier for you to breathe. And if you live in a small space, like a dorm room, the purifier will also help to keep the air fresh and circulate it.
7. A dishwasher: For when you just don't feel like washing dishes by hand.
If you're not lucky enough to have a dishwasher in your dorm room or apartment, then consider investing in one. It will save you so much time and effort - just pop your dirty dishes in and let it do its thing. You'll definitely be glad you have it when finals week rolls around and you don't have time to stand at the sink scrubbing dishes.
8. A desk lamp that also sanitizes everything
With all the germs that are floating around campus, it's important to keep your space as clean as possible. This desk lamp not only provides you with some much-needed light for studying, but it also sanitizes everything it comes into contact with - killing 99.9% of bacteria and viruses.
9. A small or large television: For binge-watching your favorite shows.
Whether you want a small television for your bedroom or a larger one for the common area of your apartment, it's definitely a good idea to have one on hand. After all, there's nothing quite like relaxing in front of your favorite show after a long day of classes.
10. A stick vacuum: Because you'll need to vacuum your dorm room or apartment at some point.
A stick vacuum is a lightweight and easy-to-use option that will make cleaning your space a breeze. You'll be glad you have it when it comes time to vacuum up all the dust and dirt that accumulates over the course of a semester.
11. An electric toothbrush: Because oral hygiene is important.
An electric toothbrush is not only more effective at cleaning your teeth than a manual one, but it's also a lot less effort! It's worth investing in a good quality toothbrush that will last you a few years. Plus, many electric toothbrushes come with timers to help you make sure you're brushing your teeth for the recommended two minutes.
12. A gentle alarm clock: To help you wake up on time (and without a headache).
We all know how hard it is to wake up for early morning classes. But with a gentle alarm clock, you can set it to slowly get louder over a period of time, so you're not jolted awake by a loud noise. This will help you wake up feeling more refreshed and less stressed.
13. A portable light source: For when the power goes out or you need to study in bed.
A portable light source is always handy to have around, especially in a dorm room or small apartment where there are often power outages. A flashlight is an obvious choice, but we also like rechargeable lanterns - they provide a lot of light and don't take up much space.
These are just a few of the essential items that you'll need for your dorm room or small apartment. With these items on hand, you'll be able to cook meals, keep your space clean and organized, and even entertain friends. So don't wait - start stocking up today!