Adjusting to life in the dorms is a cinch when you pack the essentials. Anything from plastic silverware to a pair of pumps can be a necessity during your stay at Iowa State. Check this list to make sure you pack everything that will help you with life in the dorms.

Plastic shower caddy

This plastic tote will help you easily carry things to and from the bathroom, and since it’s plastic you never have to worry about it getting wet in the showers. You can get these for just $5 to $10 at department stores like Bed, Bath and Beyond.

Flip-flops

You’ll probably want several pairs of flip-flops lying around your dorm; one pair to wear in the bathroom and shower so your feet don’t get dirty and another for wearing around campus when it’s warm outside.

Plastic silverware and utensils

It can be a hassle to wash dirty dishes in the bathroom sink. Having a supply of plastic silverware and utensils will make clean up easy and you’ll always have clean kitchen supplies on hand.

Damage-free hanging supplies

Handy tools like Command Strips are perfect for hanging your pictures, keys, jewelry, jackets and bags. You can get them for a bargain price at superstores like Wal-Mart and Target.

Mattress pad

The mattress you are provided with in your dorm room isn’t necessarily the most comfortable of mattresses. It may be a good idea to bring your own mattress pad. Bed, Bath and Beyond has a diverse selection to choose from that can accommodate your comfort needs.

Lint roller

This will be a necessity for yoga-pant days. The lint roller will pull off any dust, dirt, or hair that may have accumulated on your clothes. Plus, they can be found at nearly any superstore or drug store.

Plenty of tote bags

For the weekends you decide to visit home or stay at a friend’s place, you’ll want to have a few tote bags on hand. This way you can easily transport your belongings when you travel, even if it’s not too far away.

A big makeup bag or box

You’ll want your makeup to be easily transportable for the days you have to get ready in the bathroom while your roommate is sleeping or when you are traveling somewhere away from your room. This way you can keep everything in one place.

Baseball cap

Whether you use it to protect your face from the sun or simply because you’re having a bad hair day, having a baseball cap on hand will be a lifesaver.

Interview clothes

Even if you don’t plan on having a job on campus, it’s a good idea to have a pair of dress pants or a skirt in your closet incase an impromptu interview or presentation comes up.

Black pumps

These will be perfect for a night out, when dressing up to give a presentation or preparing for an interview. You never know when a simple pair of black pumps will come in handy.

Several towels

When your laundry room is flights of stairs away, you’ll want to procrastinate as long as possible when it comes to doing your laundry. One of the things you will run out of quickly, however, is shower towels. Be sure to bring enough towels so that you only have to wash them every couple of weeks; 4-5 towels should do the trick.