Dorm Bedding Essentials 2025: What You Really Need for Comfy College Sleep

Starting college? Congrats & buckle up! Between new schedules, awkward icebreakers & laundry that doesn’t magically fold itself, sleep can easily take a backseat. And trust us: that dorm bed isn’t helping.

But know what? You don’t need a luxury mattress to get dreamy sleep. You just need the right bedding - especially if you’re on the hunt for the best Twin XL sheets for college.

Let’s break down the real dorm bedding essentials for 2025: what matters, what doesn’t & how to create a space that feels like your very own cozy escape.

(Heads up, there are affiliate links within this article, meaning that we may earn a small commission if you click, but we only share what we genuinely love).

That Dorm Mattress? Yeah… It’s Not Your Friend

Here’s what no one puts in the brochure: dorm mattresses are the worst! They’re thin, far too firm (or weirdly super saggy) & they've been used by who-knows-how-many students before you. -No thanks!

But despite the awful mattress, you can totally hack your way to comfort so long as you've got the right sheets (and maybe a super cozy mattress topper too).

“The sheets are super soft and the deep pockets mean they fit over both my mattress pad and mattress topper. They hold up well to frequent washing and never fall off when I’m scrambling to get into my lofted bed”

-- Vial L., second-year student

Twin XL: The Size That Trips Everyone Up

Regular twin sheets won’t fit. Repeat: they will not fit. Dorm beds are always Twin XL -which are 5 inches longer than a standard twin bed. If your sheets aren’t labeled “Twin XL,” your fitted sheet will throw in the towel halfway through the night.

And don’t forget the deep pockets. Add a mattress topper or protector, and you’ll need 15–17 inches of depth to keep things snug. - Good thing Sweet Sheets® has you covered with deep pocket Twin XL sheets that don’t pop off mid-dream.

Dorm Temps Are a Whole Thing

Some dorms are boiling. Others are freezing. And if you’ve got a roommate with polar opposite preferences? Good luck!

That’s why temperature-regulating bedding is essential. Sweet Sheets® are moisture-wicking & breathable, so you stay cool, dry, & super cozy no matter what drama your dorm radiator (or roommate) brings.

Overwhelmed by the Shopping List?

We get it. Bedding’s just one line on an 82-item move-in list. But it’s also the one thing you’ll use every. single. night.

So skip the cheap big-box store set & focus on bedding that actually works:

Sweet Sheets are...

• Soft enough to help you sleep, even on a brick mattress
• Durable enough for communal laundry room chaos
• Affordable enough that you won’t feel guilty about all those late-night snack runs
  
  

What to Look For in Dorm Bedding

Here’s what actually matters:

• Twin XL size with deep pockets (at least 15”)
• ✅ Temperature regulation (hello, breathable microfiber)
• ✅ Durability (won’t pill, fade, or fall apart)
• ✅ Pill-resistant + wrinkle-resistant (because no one’s ironing in college)
• ✅ Soft AF (like sleeping in a cloud that hugs back)
  
  

Why Students (and Moms) Love Sweet Sheets®

Sweet Sheets® were designed with real life in mind - even dorm life.

• Softness that surprises you – double-brushed microfiber that feels like luxury cotton
• Cooling comfort all night – breathable, moisture-wicking magic
• Snug fit that stays put – deep pockets & full elastic that don’t quit
• Long-lasting quality – survives weekly dorm laundry without losing softness
• Budget-friendly – luxe feel without the splurge

“I bought some for a gift for my granddaughter who is going to college this fall. I also have a set of sweet sheets. And we love them.”

-- Sharon S., Sweet Sheets® convert

Dorm Bedding Checklist: No Overthinking Required

Must-haves:

• 2 sets of Twin XL Sweet Sheets® (so you're not SOL on wash-days)
• Mattress protector (trust us, just do it)
• Comforter or duvet for your climate
• 2–4 pillows (standard size)
• Optional: mattress topper (for an extra-soft sleep upgrade)

Pro tips:

• Start with your sheets - they make the biggest difference
• Get two sets - laundry day doesn’t wait
• Choose breathable materials - your 2 AM self will thank you
  
  

Why It’s So Worth It

Your dorm bed is your sanctuary, your study break, your comfort zone after a hard day (& sometimes your only alone space). Make it feel that way.

Your sheets touch your skin more than any other fabric, so shouldn’t they feel amazing?

Ready to Sleep Like You Mean It?

Explore our Twin XL Collection & see why thousands of college students swear by Sweet Sheets®.

Still unsure? Here’s exactly why hot sleepers love Sweet Sheets® (even in stuffy dorm rooms).

Because better sleep = better everything (ya... even grades!)