How does one prepare a real meal – or even some semblance of one – in a room with no kitchen? That was the question I asked myself when I tried to build my own dorm kitchenette back in college. The rules were bleak: no hot plates, probably no toasters, and definitely no stove in sight. So outside of dining hall swipes (if you’re lucky to have them), how does anyone cook?
Having done it myself, I can confirm: it takes some culinary creativity. You’d be amazed at what a microwave can do (I once baked a multi-tier birthday cake in one, frosting and all). And when it comes to space, whatever dorm ideas you think will fit – subtract 30%. Consolidation is everything, and stacking is your best friend.
So, with a mix of armchair wisdom, personal missteps (I may or may not have been written up for making potstickers on a hotplate on the floor), and current style editor know-how, here’s exactly what I’d buy from Walmart to build the perfect dorm kitchenette in 2025.
The kitchenette cart is the foundation of the whole operation – everything lives here. That’s why it needs to be on wheels, like this one, which has a breezy, open-frame design that won’t visually crowd the room. It’s compact, yes – but before you ask: the microwave does fit. This exact model doesn’t have reviews just yet, but its colorway twin earned perfect 5-star ratings, so odds are good.
There’s nothing worse than stale chips. And while your dorm room kitchenette will be equipped to handle more elaborate meals, this is college – late-night cravings are inevitable. Be prepared and add a few to your college dorm room checklist.
If you take one thing away today, let it be this: buy the microwave by Nostalgia. It comes in a very now butter yellow and has a retro silhouette that you’ll still love post-graduation. I own one myself, and after nearly five years of daily use, it still works like a charm – which is saying something, considering it’s the most affordable appliance I own and the one I get the most compliments on. Funny how that works.
As for coffee mugs: trust me, you’ll want more than one. I had a set nearly identical to this in college, and it was perfect. The entire stack tucked neatly into the corner shelf above my desk, barely taking up any room. And since they’re microwave-safe, chances are you’ll use them for more than coffee – think soups, mug cakes, instant noodles. Don’t overthink it. Just get the set.
Where will you store your leftover pizza? Your overnight oats to eat before that 9 a.m. lecture? In these food storage containers, which nest neatly to save space when not in use. The silicone is freezer-, microwave-, and even oven-safe (in case you find yourself near one). They’re also a breeze to clean.
Do you need the best blender? Not necessarily. But if you’re a smoothie person – or think you might become one when your body starts craving vitamins – this compact set is a worthwhile upgrade. Freeze fruit and spinach, stash protein powder on the bottom shelf, and use the included cup lid to bring a nutrient-dense blend with you to class.
When I was in college, I ate almost every meal out of a single bowl I kept rewashing like it was fine china. If only I’d had this dinnerware set: a plate, cup, cutlery, and two bowls – because you’ll inevitably lose one or need both. It’s made from an eco-friendly wheat straw blend, is microwave- and fridge-safe, and resists chips and breaks (because yes, things will tumble). Best of all, it stacks neatly when you’re done.
At my school, we had the option to rent the mini fridges that came with the dorms. Mistake. Mine was hideous and barely cold enough to store a bottle of water, let alone frozen fruit – disastrous in Arizona. I wish I’d sprung for one like this Frigidaire mini fridge instead. It's compact, functional, and continues the vintage theme from the microwave. Has a bottle opener, too. Worth every cent.
The best Keurig coffee makers are foolproof. I had one in college, but they’ve gotten sleeker since then – and this version might be the slimmest yet, clocking in at just 6.5 inches wide. It’s a Walmart exclusive, comes in four high-gloss finishes (the red and bluebell are especially chic), and brews 6-, 8-, or 10-ounce single serve coffee cups on demand. Pair it with your mug stack and you’ll have your caffeine corner complete.
With the above, you – or your college-bound child – should be able to whip up more than just packaged ramen this year. And now that your ‘kitchen’ is sorted, don’t miss our favorite dorm room organizing essentials to streamline your pantry setup and maximize that tiny footprint.
