IYKYK. Shopping for college when your kid isn’t into the box-store look can get pricey. I could tell you about the 3 hours I spent at Target with a daughter who hated everything, but there’s no reason to make anyone else live through that.
Looking for dorm essentials for a student with an alternative vibe? Check out these off-to-college Amazon finds that both your kid and your wallet will love.
Soft Jacquard Tufted Comforter for College
Inexpensive bedding doesn’t have to be ugly. We love this soft set for the cozy look and feel and because it’s machine washable.
It comes in Twin XL, and in several great color options, too. Tip: not every “twin xl” is a full extra long length. Check the dimensions when ordering (they should be at least 90″ long). This set checks that box.
At about $50 at the time we’re posting, it’s a great find.
super soft throw with funky style
Dorm rooms can get pretty chilly in the colder months, especially if beds are close to windows. We love a good snuggly throw as an extra bed layer or over a lap for a late night cram.
We love this one for the pom edges and woven stripes, for the baby-soft feel, and for the trendy color options.
At just $22 bucks at the time we’re posting, it’s a great price, too.
bluetooth speaker with a vintage vibe
Vintage style bluetooth speakers can get expensive (have you see the Marshall redux speaker for over $200? Yikes!). This one comes in at just $17 bucks. It’s compatible with just about any device (Android, IOS, MacOS, WatchOS, and Windows) and the sound is decent for a low cost device.
It’s tiny speaker isn’t powerful enough to blast music at volumes that will bother the neighbors, but for us that’s a bonus and not a shortfall.
mid-century style desk chair, cross legged friendly
Two things here. The style – chef’s kiss! But the second things is that if you have a ND or ADHD kid, you’re probably familiar with “perching”. We love this chair for the look, but finding a comfy desk chair that allows room to sit cross-legged is pure gold. It has a little tilt and it swivels, but it doesn’t have wheels so it stays put. With a 300lb weight limit, it’s a solid and sturdy option.
This ADHD adult (currently sitting with my legs crossed in my desk chair as I write this) absolutely loves it.
storage table/ottoman
It’s extra storage, a seat for a friend who came over, or a foot stool to put your feet up. The top flips over to convert it into a side table, too. And did we mention it’s adorable?
So much more funtional than a storage basket, plus it comes in colors that go with almost anything.
Don’t let the tiny size fool you. It may be just 13″ in diameter, but it holds up to 300lb.
birdie personal alarm
Enough of the cute stuff, let’s talk personal safety. It’s not just for college kids, and not just for women, but these are made by a woman-owned company. We fully support that.
There’s no fumbling with pepper spray – just pull the top and a VERY VERY LOUD alarm goes off with a bright flashing strobe light. We could (and should) do a full post just on this device.
There’s the bare device or (our choice) the device plus the app that lets you emergency contacts to send instant alerts with your location to. Plus, the app gives you access to live reps to can stay on the phone until you reach your destination or dispatch 1st responders if needed.
