You’re in the process of packing to move into your first-ever college dorm (eek) and it strikes you that not everything you want to pack is actually allowed. you’re wondering what you are and aren’t allowed to take with you.
You probably have a pile going of all your fave items from your go-to bedding to your fave room spray, but what you might not have considered is what isn’t allowed in a dorm. That is, if you want to stay on your RA’s good side.
To help make sure that you’re fully informed, we’ve used our own knowledge of college life, coupled with advice from some former RAs, to create a handy list of what isn’t allowed in a dorm room.
What aren’t you allowed to have in your dorm room?
1. Candles
While candles might smell glorious, the truth is that naked flames can be dangerous, which is why they’re banned at most (if not all) college dorms. A great alternative are LED battery-operated candles (like these real wax LED candles from Amazon) that flicker just like real candles but don’t carry the fire risk.There are also plenty of ways to make your dorm smell nice outside of wax and wicks.
2. A space heater
If you’re a cold person, then you might think that taking a space heater to college with you is a great way to stay toasty, but this is another item that’s banned in most dorm rooms, simply because of the fire risk.Opt for cozy blankets instead and stock up on cute sweatshirts.
3. Strip lighting
While some colleges do allow LED strip lighting in their dorm rooms, others do not. Before you head out and buy 10 feet worth of strip lighting for your new dorm, make sure to check if it's actually allowed in your space (and while you're there, it's best to check what kind of lights in general you can bring). There are plenty of cute dorm lighting options out there if these are banned.
4. Air fryers
An air fryer might seem like a great tool to take to college and pop in your dorm, especially if you’re someone who loves to snack and cook, but the truth is most dorms actually ban air fryers due to the fire risk.Other small appliances are often allowed (like an electric kettle for making ramen), but double-check your university's list.
5. Waffle makers
If you’re a big waffle fan, you might love the idea of taking a waffle maker to college but if you do, the chances are that you’ll get it taken away from you by your RA. Why? Because waffle makers — like most other cooking appliances — aren’t allowed in your dorm room, due to the safety risk that they pose.Stick to the breakfast items in the dining hall, grab brunch with friends, or find a pal who's in an apartment for Sunay breakfasts!
6. Panini makers
Yep, panini makers are another no-no for college dorm rooms. No matter how much you love grilled cheeses and other toasted sandwiches, you’re better off leaving your panini maker at home.It might be worth buying some non-toxic cookware and making the most of your shared kitchen if your hall has one!
7. Some lamps
LED strip lights aren't the only banned items. While you’re able to take certain lamps to college with you, any lamps that feature an exposed lighting element aren’t usually allowed in a dorm room. So, you know those super cute neon lights that are all over TikTok? They’re sadly a big no-no.
8. Extension cords without surge protection
Extension cords can be mega useful in a dorm room where you have limited power outlets. But if you’re going to pack an extension cord, make sure that it’s one that features surge protection. Otherwise, you could get a random room check and get it taken away by your RA.
9. Electric blankets
Electric blankets might seem like just another cozy buy that helps keep you warm when the temps drop, but they actually pose quite a serious fire risk — hence why they’re banned in most college dorms.Instead, grab a wool blanket or bedding in materials that'll trap heat in.
FAQs
Usually, anything that could be a fire hazard is prohibited. This includes items like hot plates, toasters, panini makers, toaster ovens, and indoor grills, for example. Before your student plans on bringing any kitchen appliances, they need to review the rules for the dorm.
What is not allowed in a college dorm? ›
The use of cigarettes, e-cigarettes, 'vapes', etc. Any candle (burnt or unburnt), incense, or appliance with open face heating coils or elements such as hot pots, coffee pots, electric grills, toasters and hot plates. Note: Coffee makers that use pods to make individual servings are permitted.
Why aren't air fryers allowed in dorms? ›
In order to prevent fire risk, many dorms do not allow appliances that have an exposed heating element.
Why are candles not allowed in dorms? ›
Candles. Candles are usually not allowed in dorm rooms due to the potential fire hazard. Bringing candles if they are not allowed could get you in trouble with your housing contract, so it's important to check your college's rules.
Why are AC not allowed in dorms? ›
However, students without an accommodation who install air conditioning in their dorm are subject to fines. Despite popular belief, this policy is not a result of fire code, but rather an issue of electricity. Gore said air conditioners use more amps than the older halls are equipped for.
Do college dorms have condoms? ›
Most students (81%) knew of at least two on-campus sources providing free condoms (e.g. campus health services and residence halls), although 10% of students (incorrectly) said either there were no free condoms on campus or they did not know where to get them (Table 2).
Can guys go into girl dorms? ›
One thing to remember is that living in an all-girls dorm doesn't mean that boys are completely off limits. Boys are often allowed inside of a women's residence hall. There may be a curfew and your boyfriend must always have a girl escorting him no matter where he is going.
Why are microwaves not allowed in dorms? ›
While some colleges are completely fine with students bringing their own microwaves, others have restrictions due to safety or energy consumption concerns.
Are electric blankets allowed in dorms? ›
If your student likes to stay warm and cozy, they may think that bringing a space heater or electric blanket with them to their dorm rooms at college is a good idea. The issue is, these are also items that are usually banned. Both space heaters and electric blankets are usually considered fire hazards.
Are mini fridges allowed in dorm rooms? ›
However, mini fridges are a great appliance to have in a dorm room or an apartment because of the individual storage it provides you away from a shared fridge. We consider it to be essential for college students to have, there's just no reason to ship it or try to move it with you.
Essential oils are known to contribute to skin irritation, allergic reactions, respiratory symptoms and even hormone-related symptoms in some individuals.
Are air fresheners allowed in dorms? ›
Air fresheners can impact indoor air quality by adding potentially hazardous pollutants to the air and are associated with a range of adverse health effects. Therefore, Residential Life highly recommends that you avoid their use in the residence halls. Learn more about air fresheners.
Do dorms allow incense? ›
Even though it is tempting, refrain from bringing things like incense sticks and wax melters into your dorm. Things that heat up can pose a major fire hazard around bedsheets and curtains, and they can potentially harm you.
Can you have rats in college dorms? ›
Popular pets to keep in a college dorm
If you have roommates, you may want to consider a pet that is less likely to intrude on their personal space or affect them if they have allergies. This may include a small caged pet or “pocket pet” such as: Rats. Hamsters or gerbils.
Why are space heaters not allowed in dorms? ›
Space heaters.
While they are a nice solution to combat the cold, space heaters can be a big fire risk if left running for too long.
Are heated blankets allowed in college dorms? ›
If your student likes to stay warm and cozy, they may think that bringing a space heater or electric blanket with them to their dorm rooms at college is a good idea. The issue is, these are also items that are usually banned. Both space heaters and electric blankets are usually considered fire hazards.
What appliances are allowed in college dorms? ›
10 Game-Changing Dorm Room Appliances
- Microwave. A microwave is one of the most useful appliances, but unfortunately microwaves aren't always provided. ...
- Microwave Pasta Cooker. Pasta cookers are life changing. ...
- Mini Egg Cooker. ...
- Electric Pot. ...
- Travel Steam Iron. ...
- Water Filter. ...
- Heated Blanket. ...
- Mini Toaster Oven.
Clever Cooking Gadgets That Are Safe To Use In Dorms And Other Very Small Spaces. A mini microwave, coffee maker, Instant Pot and more appliances made with small spaces in mind. A Bodum French Press, Nutribullet smoothie maker and Dash mini toaster oven.
