15 Affordable Dorm Kitchen Essentials That You’ll Actually Use

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Looking for the best dorm kitchen essentials list? Here is everything you need for your dorm kitchen that is inexpensive and space-efficient.

Most dorm rooms do not come with kitchen space or appliances. Some dorms have a kitchen in your hall to share with your neighbors. It’s even rare to have a kitchen in your dorm room.

I was lucky enough to have a kitchenette in my dorm, which came with a microwave and a mini-fridge. We also had a communal kitchen that we shared with our hall.

So if you would like to have a dorm kitchen, I will share my top dorm room kitchen essentials, including organization and appliances that are affordable and won’t take too much of your space.

Dorm Kitchen Essentials

Can you cook in dorms?

I believe in most college dorms, you are allowed to cook in your dorm room. However, please also check in with your school's list of items you can not have in your dorm room. It's the worse feeling to buy things you can't even use.

What is life like cooking in a communal kitchen?

I hardly even used the communal kitchen in my dorm, and I'm sure most people don't use it either. But sometimes, a friend of mine used to love to make brownies at night, and it was convenient to have a kitchen. So be mindful of others, wash the dishes you use, and put everything back where you originally got it.

1. Mini Fridge

A mini-fridge is a must-have to add to your dorm kitchen essentials list.

It is also one of the most expensive things to buy for your dorm room, but it's worth the investment if you want to have a kitchen in your room to keep your food cold.

PS: You can split with your roommate to help with the cost.

2. Microwave

A microwave is just as crucial as a mini-fridge.

You would be so surprised at what you can make in your microwave ( Check out this list of 23 Mouthwatering Microwave Mug Meals you Can Make in Your Dorm Room.)

3. Keurig

A Keurig is super convenient for any college student. My roommate and I love this Keurig because it doesn't take up too much space and affordable.

Plus, investing in a coffee machine will encourage you to drink coffee at home rather than at Starbucks.

4. Mini Fridge Stand

A mini fridge stand is a good place for placing your mini-fridge. The stand has wheels on the bottom for you to move it around. It provides extra space for tableware, food containers, and food.

5. Over the Door Organizer

A shoe organizer is a surprising thing that is a must-have to your dorm kitchen essentials list. Because it provides extra storage for your snacks or utensils.

6. Refrigerator Caddy

A refrigerator caddy is perfect for dorm kitchen organization. This caddy is magnetic and has extra storage for dishware and food.

7. Water Pitcher

I cannot stress this enough.

A Brita pitcher is the best thing ever. It's super helpful to have in your dorm room. My roommate and I would use this all the time when we were in the dorms.

8. Magic Bullet

Having a magic bullet in your dorm room is awesome!

Especially if you are on the go, you can make delicious smoothies. The magic bullet is super compact and won't take up too much space.

9. Reusable Tableware

My roommate and I bought our reusable plastic tableware our freshman year, and we kept it for three years (and we are seniors).

They last pretty long and affordable. You don't need a lot of dishes, but having dishware will make life easier.

I would add this to your college kitchen essentials list.

10. Can opener

A can opener sounds silly, but it is really convenient and will save your life.

11. Tupperware

You are going to need some storage for your food.

Plus, having Tupperware containers is great if you want to take some food home from the dining hall or store some healthy snacks.

12. Crockpot

I took my crockpot, and it was the best decision ever. Sometimes you get tired of eating the dining hall food, and a nice home cook meal is just what you need.

All you need is the ingredients, and it will be ready for you to eat by the time you get back from school.

13. Electric Hot Pot

This electric hot pot is perfect for cooking something in your dorm room. Whoever created this was a genius.

You can literally cook almost anything like noodles, soup, eggs, and more.

If you aren't allowed to have microwaves in your dorm, this is a good alternative.

14. Waterbottle

Bringing a water bottle to college is important. I recommend buying a hydro flask. It keeps your drink cold or hot for long hours. Also, they come in so many different colors. I have time-stamped water bottle to remind me to drink water throughout the day to stay hydrated.