Dorm rooms are notoriously small, but with the right storage solutions, they can still feel calm, functional, and even a little like home.
A tidy, well-organized space makes it easier to find what you need, reduces stress, and helps students stay focused and productive.
That’s where IKEA comes in. Their space-saving solutions are designed to make the most of tight quarters, all while staying friendly to student budgets (yes, even the ramen-noodle kind).
IKEA designers share their top back-to-college picks that maximize every inch of dorm life—without sacrificing style and function.
Take Advantage of All That Space Under the Bed
A dorm room classic when it comes to staying organized is utilizing the space under the bed. College students know that one of the first things they need to do is grab some bed risers so they can take storage to new heights (literally).
You can use adjustable bed risers, or do what I did (I won’t say how long ago) and stack a few cinder blocks under the bed legs. You could even opt to bring your own loft bed and tuck the dorm’s basic bed frame aside until you move.
The point is, take advantage of the space under the bed, and maximize the extra real estate with these IKEA storage picks.
Eric, IKEA USA’s Interior Design Leader, suggests dividing the space under the bed into separate zones—think snack bins, laundry station, and storage for seasonal items to fully maximize the underbed space.
KUGGIS
The KUGGIS storage box provides plenty of room for essentials and has a sleek, simple design that incorporates well into various spaces. The lid keeps everything contained and allows you to stack the cubes to create more vertical storage. Plus, the cube design creates a clean, polished look when placing multiple boxes next to each other.
INVALLNING
Make it easy to access the containers underneath the bed with the INVALLNING rolling utility cart. Place bins, containers, and baskets on the cart so you’re not moving a bunch of things out of the way to get to boxes in the back.
Bonus Storage Tip: Stacking KUGGIS cubes on top of the INVALLNING cart not only gives you ample storage, but also creates a roll-out flat surface. You can use it for an extra workspace or even a side table.
DIMPA
The clear DIMPA storage bag delivers extra space-saving storage wherever you need it. The zippers go deep, so you can grab things from inside without having to pull the bag out from under the bed. It’s also great for on-the-go applications, like a laundry hamper, making it easy to tote your clothes from dorm to laundromat.
JONAXEL
Slide the JONAXEL stacked storage combo under the bed or tuck it into a corner to hold clothes, towels, food, and more. The mesh baskets slide out for easy access and add portability.
Set Up a Streamlined Study Station
College is a great time for meeting new people, enjoying incredible experiences, and finding yourself. But, don’t forget, it’s also about studying (yep, there’s homework, too).
But don’t worry, setting up a sleek, efficient study station is a breeze with IKEA. (It looks so good, you’ll be excited about hitting the books!)
KALLAX
The KALLAX is one of IKEA’s most popular systems, with tons of different accessories available to customize it to your needs. You can choose from shelf inserts, drawers, risers, and much more.
Other IKEA products also work in tandem with the KALLAX shelves to maximize their functionality. For example, the KUGGIS storage box fits perfectly inside the KALLAX cubby.
TJABBA
Store notebooks, magazines, journals, textbooks, and papers in style with the TJABBA magazine file. The sturdy boxes hold your important papers upright for easy access and make it simple to move your work around wherever you need it.
ELLOVEN
Maximize your desk space with the ELLOVEN monitor stand. The riser lifts your monitor to a more comfortable height, plus gives you space below to slide your keyboard or other items. The drawer is great for storing things like notepads, pencils, and other essentials.
Bonus tip: The ELLOVEN also works as a space-saving makeup vanity. Simply swap the monitor for a mirror, and use the drawer to organize your beauty essentials — brushes, lipsticks, and more — all within easy reach.
BRÄNNBOLL
You can’t spend every second studying, right? When it’s time to take a break, kick back with your favorite games, and keep your gaming essentials organized with the BRÄNNBOLL storage cart. It has spots for headphones, controllers, and everything else you need to get your game on.
Colorful Extras for Your College Digs
Successful storage and design isn’t just about function. These favorites help add a dash of style and fun to your dorm. You’ll feel right at home whether you’re cramming in a late-night study session or taking a well-deserved nap.
VATTENSTEN
Add style and visibility wherever you need it with the VATTENSTEN multi-color LED strips. The adhesive strips change color, giving your space a cool vibe and making it easy to locate items in dark spots, like under the bed.
RAKLOSTA
Use the RAKLOSTA precut fabric to cover basic storage boxes or create vibrant curtains (and use a tension rod) to hide items under the bed or on shelves. The cotton material is soft and machine-washable, and the playful pattern adds a lively touch to your space.
Eric suggests using vibrant and bold IKEA pre-cut fabric on the wall to accent and personalize the space. Simply secure the fabric to the wall with thumbtacks for an easy, low-damage upgrade.
FODERTRÅG
Add a splash of color to your desk with a bright yellow FODERTRÅG organizer. It keeps small items contained, and you can stack several to take advantage of vertical space and create extra storage.
Get Your Dorm Room Back-to-School Ready With IKEA
A well-organized space is a successful space, so don’t start college without getting the things you need to deck out your dorm with perfect storage. And, if like many college students, you’re living on a shoestring budget, these IKEA storage stars get an A+ in affordability. Plus, through September 30, 2025, IKEA is offering verified students 15% off the things they need.
Looking for more dorm storage and design inspiration? Check out these other IKEA student favorites to make your dorm room the ultimate space for back-to-school success.