Need back-to-school essentials? Bed Bath & Beyond has it all

back-to-school essentials from Bed Bath & Beyond's new release Squared Away

(Image credit: M Booth PR)

published 21 July 2021

Shopping for back-to-school essentials has changed astronomically since my childhood. Back then, it was a simple, straightforward process: rushing down the aisle to locate the most colorful assortment of crayons, then B-lining over to the binder aisle. In a matter of minutes, the process was over and done with until next year.

It wasn't until I was preparing for my freshman year of college that the process evolved; there were linens to dress my best mattress in, storage options, and shower caddies to consider.

Where to start? I had no idea — and that same confusion is plaguing all parents this year. The pandemic has shifted the way children learn and extended their back-to-school essentials shopping list.

Now, whether you're shopping for your college-bound freshman or raising a toddler, the lists are interchangeable: you need pieces that emphasize organization, storage, and of course, everything in-between. And that's where Bed Bath & Beyond's latest release comes into play.

Squared Away, the retailer's sixth release is here to get every student (no matter their age or grade) squared away for the upcoming school year. There are storage solutions and cleaning supplies, and if you need a bit more assistance, they've ever tapped Eryn Donaldson, a home organization expert.

Donaldson graciously has provided all of her tips and tricks to decluttering space while simultaneously mastering every back-to-school essentials shopping list.

Continue reading below to see!

1. Start out by starting small

"Getting organized [for back-to-school] can be overwhelming. Take it one step at a time and start with something easy, like the junk drawer," explains Donaldson.

Tip: Try a small metal drawer

back-to-school essentials drawers for under desk or counters

2. Remember versatility is key

"Multifunctional items help maximize your space and provide practical solutions to clutter. Think beyond typical uses for products," explains Donaldson.

Tip: Try a hanging shelf

Squared Away Arrow Weave 6-Shelf Hanging Organizer for $18, at Bed Bath & Beyond

If you are dealing with a dorm room or converting a living room into a virtual learning center for young children, you need a solution that adds storage without creating clutter. Enter: this six-tier hanging shelf. You can seamlessly tuck away unwanted items and hang them on a coat rack (or curtain rod if need be) while producing enough space for your day-to-day essentials such as paper or textbooks.

3. Always (always) double up

"Sleek new products make it easier than ever to create space-saving storage options while eliminating the need for excess furniture. Stylish storage carts can be used as nightstands or side tables, bathroom cabinets, or nursery dressers. When you’re able to keep essentials within arm’s reach, you’ll make your life a lot easier," adds Donaldson.

Tip: Try a piece that discretely tucks away excessive items

4. Lastly, It's time to get rolling!

"A 3-tier storage cart on wheels is a great way to bring your things from one room to the next. Simply roll it anywhere and give yourself flexibility with open shelving options. Try this as an art caddy, a bookshelf, or a bath organizer. Carts like these help you not only get organized but stay organized," concludes Donaldson.

Tip: Try a multi-tiered cart that's equal parts solution-based and stylish

Need more back-to-school essentials? Check out additional suggestions below:

Brittany Romano is a Shopping Editor, based in New York City. From her start as a fashion market assistant at Marie Claire to building a highly profitable commerce vertical at Us Weekly and AMI brands, Brittany has produced award-winning content covering everything from celebrity beauty hacks to must-have items from online sales. She is a graduate of New England College. When she isn’t writing, you can find Brittany indulging in yet another DIY project or cheering on her beloved Boston Bruins.