Dorm Room Upgrade Ideas to Beat Your Winter Blues

Feeling a bit blue this winter season? As the dark days and cold nights drag on endlessly, it can be tempting for even the most dedicated college student to hibernate away in bed with the sheets pulled up. But we’re here to help you cast that negative energy aside with some dorm room upgrade tips that will help boost your spirits – without bottoming out your bank account.

When it comes to decorating dorm rooms, theories vary on how to get the best bang on a small budget. Some say to go all out and paint the walls, change the window treatments, and basically replace all the included furniture with your own. We find that to be a bit unrealistic. Updating bedrooms (especially in college dorms) shouldn’t mean you have to forfeit your security deposit. Instead, we’ll show you dorm room decorating ideas that stay in line with what your academic institution approves – and can be brought with you (or securely stored away) when your next adventure beckons. 

Lighten It Up for an Energizing Bedroom

Creating an energizing bedroom is a great way to shake off the winter doldrums – and make sure they stay off for the rest of the year. The easiest and most affordable way to turn up the positive energy is by changing or amplifying your light sources.

Windows

Switch out heavy drapes with sheer curtains or translucent shades to ensure you get the most natural light possible in your college dorm room. If privacy is a concern, there are many easy and affordable window film options on the market.

Lamps

Pay close attention to the light bulbs and shades on your lamps. To really get the energy flowing, Apartment Therapy suggests you aim for daylight-balanced bulbs and shades that let the illumination through. 

Indoor String Lighting

Drape indoor string lighting around your door and window frames for a cozy glow. Many lights now come on timers, so you can make sure that your room is ready and waiting to welcome you home after a long day hitting the books. 

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Create Relaxing Bedroom Vibes With Specialized Scents

As important as an energizing bedroom can be for a student, a relaxing bedroom also checks a lot of self-care boxes. The good news is scents can be used for either effect. Diffusers, candles, and incense are all easy and quick methods to delight the senses (though you’ll want to check what your dorm rules say about open flames). Experts recommend lavender, vanilla, lemongrass, rose, and jasmine for maximum stress relief, though it’s always best to play around until you find the aromas that work best for you.     

If you go the essential oils route, be forewarned that they most are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Look for high-quality versions in dark-colored bottles. Make them last by storing them in a stable environment without excessive light or heat.

Upgrade Your Bed for Lasting Benefits

The focal point of most dorm decor is the bed. Upgrade yours with new linens and throw pillows for a quick fix or loft your bed for an even bigger impact. If you find yourself studying on your bed a lot, it might be worth it to fork over some of your hard-earned cash for a table tray of some sort. Reading pillows or lounge cushions with memory foam also help maximize the comfort and functionality, especially as many college dorms provide the bare minimum when it comes to beds – or headboards. Apartment Therapy also recommends overstuffing pillowcases with inserts that are slightly too large for a true designer look.

If you’re focused on making sustainable purchases, look for sheets, pillows, and comforters that are organic and made out of natural materials like eucalyptus or bamboo. Watch for white sales in January or back-to-school sales in late summer for the best prices. 

Add an Area Rug for Instant Warmth and Comfort

Area rugs are a cheap dorm room upgrade that add a lot of flair and comfort for very little cost. Rugs can also instantly create a color scheme for an otherwise plain room. Both bold colors and earth tones can fit the bill, as can a variety of styles – from modern to antique.

While we normally love the look of layered rugs, they can create a trip hazard and might be a little too much for such a small space, so choose one that fits all of your requirements. The secret to dorm decor is to make it as functional as it is attractive, so look for rugs that can be washed or even indoor/outdoor versions built for rugged use. Carpet tiles are also an option, as they can be easily cleaned or even replaced if something goes especially awry.

Bring in the Botanicals

Biophilic design is making a big splash these days – and for good reason. Adding elements of nature to your bedroom design can lighten up even the darkest winter days.

If you’ve got a green thumb (or want to develop one), visit your local nursery for advice on decorating dorm rooms with plants. According to Redbook, snake plants, Chinese evergreen, and aloe vera are all minimal-care options for any budding horticulturist. 

For those of us with zero interest in the botanical arts, there are highly realistic “faux” options available at any big box store. You can also add big green energy in your bedroom with botanical prints, photos, or artwork. Dried flowers are also a great choice for a fuss-free natural look.

Add Some (Movable) Flair

Looking for maximum energy in your bedroom? Look no further than bold, bright colors and patterns. You can easily add these elements by adding removable wallpaper or even a refurbished bedside table. Lushome recommends adding bright accessories to create cheerful moods and make a strong statement – and we couldn’t agree more.

Another way to level up the flair in your dorm room upgrade is to invest in decorative picture frames and desk accessories. There isn’t a lot of space for personal items in the average dorm room, so make sure that what you’ve got draws the eye – including even your most functional possessions. If you’ve got to store your wet towels out in the open, for instance, invest in ones with a sprightly design or luxury feel to up the “ooh!” factor. However you decide to spruce up your spot, remember to focus on creative solutions. Decorating dorm rooms should be fun and low-cost, so look around for inspiration and ideas before shelling out the big bucks on items that might not serve you when you move out – and move on.

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