Setting up a mini fridge in a dorm room is a convenient way to store food and drinks without having to leave your room. To start, clear a space in your room for the fridge to sit. Make sure there is enough space around the fridge for ventilation.
Next, plug in the fridge and let it sit for a few hours before adding any food or drinks. This allows the fridge to cool down to the appropriate temperature. Once the fridge is cooled, you can start stocking it with your favorite snacks and beverages.
It's important to regularly clean and defrost the fridge to prevent mold and bacteria from forming. Consider using a small container of baking soda to help absorb any odors.
Lastly, consider investing in a small power strip or surge protector to ensure you have enough outlets for all of your dorm room appliances. With a little bit of planning and organization, setting up a mini fridge in a dorm room can be a simple and practical addition to your living space.
Best Mini Fridges of 2024
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Rating is 5 out of 5
Honeywell Beverage Refrigerator and Cooler, 115 Can Mini Fridge with Glass Door for Soda Beer or Wine for Office or Bar with Adjustable Removable Shelving
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Three pane glass door for ultimate temperature control
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Electronic digital thermostat control panel
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Slide out plastic coated shelving
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Adjustable legs
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Interior LED light
2
Rating is 4.9 out of 5
Upstreman 3.2 Cu.Ft Mini Fridge with Freezer, Single Door, Adjustable Thermostat, Refrigerator for Dorm, Office, Bedroom, Black-BR321
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Compact Single-Door: This mini fridge measures 18.7’’*17.4’’*33.1’’(W*D*H) and has 3.2 Cu.ft(90.6 L) capacity including freezer. The single door design is convenient and space efficient. While being able to grab ice cubes and drinks at one step, this single-door mini fridge has more capacity compares to those double-door small refrigerator with the same size. The storage is greatly utilized, occupies a little space, making it perfect for dorms, offices, bedrooms, RV cars and garages.
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Adjustable Thermostat: From 33.8° F to 46.4° F (1° C to 8°C NOT suitable for storing ice cream) , there are 5 variable temperature settings can be manually switched between as per your needs. (Optimum temperature range for perishable food storage is 37 to 41 °F (3 to 5 °C)). The temperature of freezer is affected by the cooler’s temperature settings. Choosing the most favourable temperature setting to keep the food fresh while save on electricity bills.
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Energy-efficient & Quiet: The mini fridge energy cost is estimated to be as low as 0.5 kWh per day. The small refrigerator working noise is 38 dB, roughly at the level of quiet rural area. Economic and quiet, you will hardly notice its existence when it’s cooling all your food & drinks, ideal appliance for bedroom, study and quiet space.
3
Rating is 4.8 out of 5
RCA RFR322 Mini Refrigerator, Compact Freezer Compartment, Adjustable Thermostat Control, Reversible Door, Ideal Fridge for Dorm, Office, Apartment, Platinum Stainless, 3.2 Cubic Feet
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STYLISH: Our RCA Compact Refrigerator comes in a variety of colorful, bold, and glossy colors. That compliments your design and improves the appearance of your kitchen, dorm, room, or workplace, wherever you choose to put it.Cooling method:Compressor
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REVERSIBLE DOORS: It is small enough to fit in any dorm, kitchen, room, or workplace. Using the reversible door, you can easily set the little fridge door to open to the left or right, depending on your needs and room layout.
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ADJUSTABLE THERMOSTAT CONTROL: The thermostat may be easily controlled with the control dial. From mild to cold to coldest. Even in hot weather, simply turn the knob to the temperature you choose.
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ENERGY SAVING: Our mini-fridge not only keeps your beverages and food cool and fresh, but it's also really friendly to your wallet. Its highly Energy efficient compressor cooling has an annual power consumption of just 5 kilowatt per hour.
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ICE CUBE CHAMBER: 0.3 cu ft compartment that can reach 32 degrees F .
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Rating is 4.7 out of 5
FRIGIDAIRE EFR376-BLACK 3.2 Cu Ft Black Retro Bar Fridge with Side Bottle Opener
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3.2 Cubic Foot Retro Fridge with Can Opener.Lock Type:Electronic
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Compact size allows for placement of this refrigerator virtually anywhere there is an electrical outlet
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Opening bottles is a breeze with a built-in side bottle opener.
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2 Slide out adjustable spill proof glass shelves allows you to personalize your food storage to meet your unique needs
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Ice cube tray is included to allow you to make ice any time
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Rating is 4.6 out of 5
Frigidaire EFR840-BLACK-COM Compact Refrigerator, 3.1, Black
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RETRO DESIGN: Compact in size and attractive retro design with decorative door embellishments that give this retro refrigerator a sleek contemporary look.Lock Type:Electronic.Installation type: Freestanding
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EASY TO CLEAN: Has 2 spill-proof and removable glass shelves that slide out to simplify cleanup, preventing liquids from leaking onto items below.
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PLENTY OF STORAGE: This 3.2 Cu Ft mini fridge has a lot of storage with a .25 Cu Ft freezer with ice cube tray. Refrigerator compartment has a crisper drawer and 2 shelves.
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EASY TEMPERATURE CONTROL: This chic unit features easily accessible temperature controls make temperature management easy.
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GREAT FOR SMALL SPACES: Compact size allows for placement of this refrigerator virtually anywhere there is an electrical outlet. Flush back design makes this the perfect choice for a college dorm room or office
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Rating is 4.5 out of 5
Upstreman 1.7 Cu.ft Mini Fridge with Freezer, Adjustable Thermostat, Energy Saving, Low Noise, Single Door Compact Refrigerator for Dorm, Office, Bedroom, Black-FR17
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Compact & Convenient: Given a dimension of 18.9” *17.7” *19.3” (W*D*H), this mini fridge can fit it anywhere you need. Whether it’s on the counter or under the desk, it requires little space yet offers plenty of storage room, perfect for apartment, dorm, office, bedroom and RV. The reversible door provides great flexibility when used in a limited space.
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Adjustable Temperatures & Freezer: Ranges from 33.8° F to 46.4° F (1° C to 8°C NOT suitable for storing ice cream), the fridge offers 5 variable temperature settings per your need. Includes a compact freezer that allow you to make ice cubes, keep your food fresh and drinks chilled.
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38dB Quiet: Operates at a low noise of 38 dB, this fridge brings the peace and refreshing cold at the same time. It’s so quiet that you can hear the ice cubes melting in the glass! Free of any disturbance while it’s keeping all your food nice and fresh, ideal for environment like bedroom, office, kitchen and study.
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Rating is 4.4 out of 5
Manastin 3.2 Cu. Ft Mini Fridge with Freezer for Bedroom, Dorm, Office, Compact Refrigerator with Adjustable Thermostat, Removable Glass Shelves and Reversible Door (Black)
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【Efficient Use of Space】The size of this mini refrigerator is 17.52" x 19.3" x 32.7", with an area of only 7.7ft³, allowing more possibilities for space. With a huge storage space of 3.2 Cu. Ft. and fine partitioning, the upper layer of quick-freezing and efficient refrigeration ensures the freshness of ingredients, while the lower layer of high moisture retention locks in the moisture and nutrition of food. Additional door storage shelves can accommodate a variety of beer drinks and sauces.
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【Energy Saving & Low Noise】 This mini fridge is Energy Star certified and consumes only 220kWh of electricity a year, which costs only 0.07 per day, making it environmentally friendly and economical. The compressor works with very low noise, even if placed next to the bed, it will not affect you and your family's sleep, making it a very ideal household appliance.
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【Suitable for Various Use Needs】 The humanized reversible single door design can be set to open the door to the left or right according to different space needs and hand habits, making it very convenient to access food. Adjustable feet easily adapt to a variety of uneven ground. Fashionable and simple appearance can be matched with a variety of styles, ideal for use in the bedroom, apartment, dormitory, office
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【Adjustable temperature & Defrost】 There are 7 levels available for adjustment, the temperature range from 23℉ to 50℉(-5-10C), you can easily and quickly adjust the temperature to the desired level. Generally speaking, 4 is suitable for home or office use. Even in the hot summer, you can always enjoy a cold drink. If you have a need for defrosting, you can easily do it by simply pressing the switch in the center of the knob.
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Rating is 4.3 out of 5
EUHOMY 3.2 Cu.Ft Mini Fridge with Freezer, Single Door Compact Refrigerator, LED light, Adjustable Thermostat, Mini Refrigerator Energy Saving, Mini fridge for Bedroom, Dorm, Office, Black.
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🧊Energy Saving & LED Light - Our mini fridge consumes as low as 0.5 kWh per day (about 0.47 dollar/day), it is energy saving and environmental friendly. In addition, mini refrigerator design is more humane, unlike other similar products, it also comes with an LED light, you can take the storage at night with impunity.
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🧊Refrigerator & Micro Freezer - 3.2 Cu.ft large capacity mini fridge with freezer contains 2.9 Cu.ft Refrigeration section (21℉~42℉) and 0.3 Cu.ft micro-freezer section (15℉~28℉). The micro-freezing section of the small refrigerator allows for short-term storage of a variety of meat products and is equipped with a water catch pan underneath for easy defrosting or cleaning when the power is off.
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🧊Compact Design - Compact Refrigerator size: 17.3 "D x 18.5 "W x 32.4 "H. Top of the dorm fridge has reversible hinges, so you can change the opening direction at will according to the placement. This is a mini fridge for bedroom, kitchens, dormitories, and offices with a compact form factor that takes up only 2.2ft².
9
Rating is 4.2 out of 5
Upstreman 3.1 Cu.Ft Mini Fridge with Freezer, Double Door Mini Fridge, Adjustable Thermostat, Mini Refrigerator for Dorm, Office, Bedroom, Black
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Compact and Capacious: This mini fridge with freezer has a dimension of 18.31'*19.49'*33.46(W*D*H) and offers 2.22 Cu.Ft cooler and 0.8 Cu.Ft freezer in separate compartments. Ideal for personal use at dorm, office and bedroom.
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7 Adjustable Temperatures & LED Light: 7 variable temperature settings provide you the desired storage condition for food and drinks. The fridge temperature ranges from 33.8 F to 46.4 F while the freezer temperature maintains constantly at -0.4 F. The LED light in the small fridge ensures you find supplies with ease even in the dark.
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Removable Shelves & Crisper Drawer: Equipped with removable shelves, adjustable to fit your practical storage needs. The crisper drawer helps preserve the humidity for vegetables and fruits, keeps them juicy and fresh.
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Energy-efficient & Quiet: The estimated cost goes as low as $0.1 per day. A low working noise of 38 dB makes this mini fridge suitable for dorms, offices and bedrooms. Compact and quiet, it's there only when you need it.
What is the best location to place a mini fridge in a dorm room?
The best location to place a mini fridge in a dorm room is typically on a sturdy surface that is easily accessible for your convenience. Some ideal locations include:
- On a desk or study area: Placing the mini fridge on a desk or study area allows for easy access to snacks and drinks while studying or working on assignments.
- Underneath a lofted bed: If you have a lofted bed, consider placing the mini fridge underneath it to save space and keep it out of the way.
- In a corner of the room: Placing the mini fridge in a corner of the room helps maximize space and keep it easily accessible.
- Next to a microwave or kitchen area: If your dorm room has a designated kitchen area with a microwave or other appliances, consider placing the mini fridge next to it for convenience.
Ultimately, the best location for your mini fridge will depend on the layout of your dorm room and your personal preferences. Just make sure to leave enough space for ventilation and easy access to the fridge's door.
How to properly clean a mini fridge before setting it up?
- Unplug the mini fridge and remove all items from the inside.
- Mix a solution of mild dish soap and warm water in a bucket or sink.
- Remove any removable shelves or drawers and wash them in the soapy water.
- Use a sponge or cloth to wipe down the interior walls of the fridge with the soapy water, paying extra attention to any spills or stains.
- Rinse the interior of the fridge with clean water to remove any soap residue.
- Dry the interior of the fridge with a clean towel.
- Wipe down the exterior of the fridge with a damp cloth to remove any dust or dirt.
- Clean the exterior coils of the fridge with a vacuum or brush to remove any built-up dust or debris.
- Replace the shelves and drawers, and plug the fridge back in.
- Allow the fridge to cool down to the desired temperature before placing any food or drinks inside.
What is the best way to store fruits and vegetables in a mini fridge?
- Keep fruits and vegetables separate: Some fruits produce ethylene gas, which can cause vegetables to spoil faster. Keep fruits in one section of the mini fridge and vegetables in another to prevent them from ripening too quickly.
- Store fruits and vegetables in the crisper drawer: The crisper drawer in a mini fridge is designed to help regulate humidity levels, which can help prolong the freshness of produce. Keep fruits and vegetables in separate compartments in the crisper drawer for optimal storage.
- Use perforated bags or containers: Place fruits and vegetables in perforated bags or containers to allow for proper air circulation and prevent moisture buildup, which can cause produce to spoil more quickly.
- Avoid overcrowding: Make sure to leave enough space between fruits and vegetables in the mini fridge to allow for adequate airflow. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooling and premature spoilage.
- Check and rotate regularly: Check the fruits and vegetables in your mini fridge regularly for signs of spoilage, and rotate them as needed to ensure even cooling and freshness.
By following these tips, you can help keep your fruits and vegetables fresh for as long as possible in a mini fridge.
What is the best way to organize drinks in a mini fridge?
The best way to organize drinks in a mini fridge is to arrange them by size and type. Here are some tips:
- Group similar drinks together: Keep all the cans together and all the bottles together. This will make it easier to quickly find what you're looking for.
- Use stackable containers: Utilize plastic bins or containers to maximize space and keep drinks organized. Stack cans or bottles on top of each other to save space.
- Utilize the door storage: Most mini fridges come with built-in door shelves. Take advantage of this space by storing smaller drinks like cans or bottles on these shelves.
- Label shelves: If you have multiple people using the mini fridge, label shelves to ensure everyone knows where drinks should go and help maintain organization.
- Keep frequently used drinks within easy reach: Place your most commonly consumed drinks at eye level or within easy reach to prevent rummaging around and keep the fridge organized.
By implementing these organization tips, you can ensure that your mini fridge stays neat and organized, making it easier to locate and access your favorite drinks.
How to prevent condensation in a mini fridge?
- Keep the mini fridge well ventilated by leaving some space between the fridge and the wall to allow for air circulation.
- Avoid overloading the mini fridge with food and beverages, as overcrowding can lead to poor air circulation and increased moisture levels.
- Check and replace the door seal if it is damaged or worn out, as a faulty seal can allow warm air to enter the fridge and lead to condensation.
- Use a dehumidifier in the room where the mini fridge is located to reduce overall humidity levels.
- Keep the mini fridge clean and free of spills, as excess moisture from spills can contribute to condensation.
- Place a moisture-absorbing product, such as silica gel packets or a bowl of baking soda, inside the mini fridge to help absorb excess moisture.
- Avoid opening the door of the mini fridge frequently, as this can allow warm air to enter and create condensation.
- If condensation persists, consider purchasing a mini fridge with a built-in automatic defrost function to help prevent excess moisture buildup.
