Okay strap yourself in because we're about to go on a ride. I struggled with this so imma tell you everything I know/learned in the past 6 months of living in my dorm https://twitter.com/lieba_louisa/status/1279250561133686785

So, regarding dishes. First you'll need a set of plates, bowls, small plates, and cups. I'd recommend getting 5 of each so you're not washing dishes after every meal. The best options are at thrift shops, usually people donate their full sets and you can get them for like $20

Get the ceramic dishes, not plastic. Plastic is cheaper but ceramic will last longer. The cups can be plastic, but I'd recommend getting 2 or 3 ceramic mugs anyways for any hot drinks you make. Again, GO TO THRIFT SHOPS. Most of what you need is there, and in good condition.

After you get the eating dishes, get silverware. This is one of the few items I suggest you don't thrift shop for. Thrift shops will have mismatched buckets of forks and stuff, get an actual set at a store. You won't need any more than 5 of each for just yourself.

Next is the pots and pans. Don't thrift these either, you'll be grateful later. Get a good set of nonstick, and don't be afraid to go a little expensive on these. My favorite pan was $30, but it's a DREAM to cook with, and cleaning it is SOOO easy.

Next get a tupperware set. It's okay to thrift these, but it's not super common to find a full set in thrift stores, so you'll probably have to get it at a store. Don't get a big set, you won't use it as much as you think. A small set will serve your needs just fine.

If you like to bake, I suggest thrifting some pans and stuff. Most of these don't really need to be nonstick, since baking usually has you grease the pan anyways. I got my muffin pans, brownie pan, and one of my pyrex dishes that way. I do recommend at least one pyrex dish.

Next is sanitation. If you're moving far away from home, I suggest you get these when you move in. You'll need windex, 409, toilet cleaner, a toilet brush/plunger, a razor to scrape things, garbage bags, a pumice stick, and some air freshener. Pick a scent you like.

Next up is disposable things. One pack of paper towels and one pack of toilet paper usually gets me through a semester. Get all sizes of ziploc bags, get tin foil (get cooling racks too), seran wrap, and even wax paper if you want it. They'll come in handy.

For dishes and clothes, I recommend those pods and one of those big boxes of the Tide powder. I got my washer soap powder box 6 months ago and it's still got half left. Super cheap and gets the job done. Get dryer balls instead of sheets, they last longer/are less annoying.

On the subject of soap, it's different for girls and boys but for me, 2-3 bottles of soap lasts me like 3 months of showers. Get a foot mat and curtains if your place doesn't have them already. Remember to get toothpaste, shaving razors, extra toothbrushes, etc.

Next up is medicine. Get a small bin and make it your medicine bin. Include dayquill, tylenol, a first aid kit, extra bandaids, Tums, hydrogen peroxide, cold medicine, etc. Throw in some vitamins and Emergen-C for when you're sick. Clorox wipes are good too.

I forgot to mention mixing bowls. Get a good set of those. Utensils too, like spatulas, tongs, whisks, rolling pin, ladles, the whole deal. Get a good knife set, 8-14 knives. Don't be afraid to splurge on this too, a good knife will be worth it.

Towels. Get a few kitchen towels, a few face towels, bathing towels, hand towels, etc. I have 2 of each, which is plenty. Get good oven mitts too, one pair is plenty.

Bedding. Get at least 2 sets of sheets/pillowcases, and one comforter. Get a mattress protector too, most dorms require that. CHECK WHICH SIZE YOU NEED FOR ALL OF THESE BEFORE YOU BUY THEM. It'll save you the hassle of replacing them. I recommend two pillows.

Get some hangars if you don't have any. Same goes for a small trash can for your room, and a laundry basket. If you want, get an essential oil diffuser, it'll make the room smell pretty. I also recommend a lamp like this. Multiple ports and organizational spots.