Under-bed storage is critical to making the best use of dorm space. (Courtesy of Mainstays)

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — It’s that time of year when college kids start planning their next fall adventure. For parents, it is never easy. But knowing their college student has the necessary items soothes the pain of separation — a bit.

Sure, college students are anxious to break away, leaving their childhood home behind. They might not admit it, but everyone wants their new space to feel a bit homey.

Most dorm rooms are tight on space, too, so you’ll want to be sure it’s organized to make the best use of the space you’ve got. Organizers, storage items and caddies will help you make the best of a cramped situation.

Also, college kids might need a few bathroom items they’ve never even considered before. A shower caddy, for example, makes it easy to tote bath essentials in and out of the shower, which may be at the end of the hall or, at the very least, shared with others.

Cleaning products will come in handy when Mom isn’t around to do the dirty work. A compact vacuum, or hand-held vacuum, duster, mop and cleaners will help get the job done quickly, and they are good to have on hand.

College students on a tight budget? Look to retail stores like Walmart, which has favorite dorm and first-apartment essentials, starting at $7. Amazon.com offers cleaning products for up to 63% off.

The Fulk Soft 6-Piece 100% Cotton Towel Set comes in a variety of colors and the hook makes is easily stored in a dorm room. It's available on Wayfair.com. (Courtesy of Fulk)

Don’t forget basics, like shower mats, bath towels and washcloths. College kids prefer a big bundle of washcloths, which can be used for face and body, quick cleanups and even coasters!

Now is a good time to find discounts on laundry baskets, dryer sheets and dorm storage and organization, as retailers compete for back-to-school shoppers. Some, like Walmart, offer one-day shipping, three-day shipping, or pick-up options at the store.

Here’s a few more items that will surely get a college student off to a good start in their new home:

Mainstays' six-shelf non-woven hanging closet organizer is available in Arctic White. (Courtesy of Mainstays)

Mainstays 6-Shelf Non Woven Hanging Closet Organizer, Arctic White. This organizer instantly creates space for folded items, socks, toiletries, books and any other essentials that can’t be stored on a hanger.

Shower caddie with handle. The shopping caddy will make it easy for a student to carry shower musts back and forth from room to shower each day.

Desk organizer set: The Wayfair Basics Desk Organization Set includes a waste basket, dual-section filer, stick pad holder, business card tray, pencil cup and a paperclip holder.

The Swiffer Dry-Wet gets the job done and takes up very little space in a college dorm. (Courtesy of Swiffer.com)

The Swiffer Sweeper 2-in-1 Dry and Wet Multi-Surface Floor Cleaner will get the job done in the dorm room while taking up very little storage space. It’s $13.24 at Walmart.com.

The O-Cedar EasyWring Spin Mop & Bucket System will keep floors clean with simple storage. It’s $34.98 at Walmart.com.

The Clorox Anti-Microbial Cushioned 21-inch by 21 inch Shower Mat is available in white. (Courtesy of Clorox)

A few more products worth checking out:

Mainstays Cylinder Symmetrical Pattern Metal Laundry Hamper $24.63. Was $28.98

Clorox Anti-Microbial Cushioned 21 in. x 21 in. Shower Mat, White $14.96

Mainstays 32-Piece Plastic Square Dinnerware Bundle Set, Assorted Colors $22.38

Snuggle Fabric Softener Dryer Sheets, Blue Sparkle, 200 Count $6.97

Mainstays 28 Quart Under bed Plastic Storage Box, Clear, Set of 4 $39.99

Mainstays 12-Tier Over The Door Shoe Rack, Metal, Gray, $29.97

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