Moving into a new apartment is exciting but stressful (especially when you’re mindful of a budget). Here are some must-have items for your new apartment to help you settle in comfortably and efficiently.
Included further down below is a checklist that you’ll be able to print out for before and after you move in!
First, Apartment Bedroom Essentials
Cleaning, organizing and decorating takes a lot of energy – and so personally I would prioritize the sleeping situation to be well rested first! Everything else can wait. For the bedroom, start with basics like a bed, mattress, a sturdy bed frame, fresh sheets, pillows, and curtains for privacy.
See my recent post on the best affordable mattresses here.
Lighting, a rug, hangers and storage furniture such as a dresser and bedside table are also important to consider, but depending on your budget you can get some of the other essentials first.
Bathroom Essentials
Setting up a bathroom in a first apartment is pretty simple – usually, the space is quite small so be sure to look at some of the storage solutions I’ve suggested below. If you want to revamp the space a little, here’s some ideas!
For your basics, get:
- Towels
- Soap + Soap Dish/Bodywash
- Shampoo + Conditioner
- Shower curtain
- Bath mat
- Trash can
- Trash bags
- Toothbrush holder
- Small storage organizer
- Toilet paper
- Toilet brush
- Shower caddy
Additional items to consider:
- Air freshener
- Plunger
- Cleaning supplies (list in the FAQ below)
Apartment Kitchen Must-Haves
Setting up a kitchen in a first apartment can take a really long time to get just right – especially if you like to cook and spend a lot of time in the kitchen. But first, you’ll need:
- Get basic tools like pots, pans, spatulas, dishes, and utensils.
- Small appliances like a toaster (or even more versatile, a toaster oven) and coffee maker.
- Storage containers and spice racks are essential for organizing food and kitchen items.
- Use command hooks for hanging kitchen towels or utensils.
- Keep a little medicine box with advil/tylenol and allergy medications on hand for seasonal changes.
Living Room Essentials
And now for the space that you might spend the most time in! Make the space cozy by adding personal items like family hand-me-downs, small appliances, cute lighting fixtures and a comfy seating area with a coffee table. Ensure you have space for technology like a TV or heater.
A rug can also add warmth and character, while curtains or blinds provide privacy and ambiance.
For those on a tight budget, using hand-me-down furniture or items borrowed from family and friends can be a cost-effective option as you save up and plan for more decor items.
*And then a random tip, I like keeping a small handheld vacuum by the living room for cleaning up crumbs from the sofa (if you’re an eat-at-the-couch kinda person you’ll thank me later)!
Laundry Room Must-Haves
When setting up your first apartment’s laundry closet area, you’ll need:
- Essential items like detergent, stain remover, fabric softener, and dryer sheets or wool balls that are necessary for washing and maintaining clothing.
- Being able to access the vacuum for cleaning up lint and debris can make doing laundry more efficient.
- Small tools like lint rollers, de-wrinkling spray or a portable steamer might also be good to keep handy.
Creating Your Own Checklist
When moving into a first apartment, creating a first apartment checklist is important. It’s a great visual, at-a-glance way to make sure you have all the items you need before and after your move. Feel free to download and use mine (fill in the form above to receive it), and then to customize it or add onto it as you need.
If you have lots of things you’re packing up prior to moving, be sure to check out my time saving moving tips here!
Tips For Maximizing Space in Your Apartment
Creative storage solutions for maximizing space in a small apartment:
- Use under-bed storage bins
- Utilize over-the-door shoe organizers for small items
- Install vertical shelving units to make the most of vertical space
Furniture tips for creating more space in a living area:
- Choose dual-purpose furniture like a bed frame with built-in storage
- Opt for a coffee table with hidden compartments for extra storage
Multi-functional products for small apartment living:
- Consider using command hooks for hanging items
- Invest in a space heater that can also act as a fan in warmer months
- Choose a compact vacuum for easy storage (and you’ll be more likely to pull it out to use too)
Summarizing some tips for moving into your first apartment:
- Ask family and friends for hand-me-down items to save on costs
- Invest in versatile pieces like a bed frame with built-in storage
- Prioritize essentials for the kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom for functionality first
Cleaning Supplies to Buy
Setting up your first apartment is an exciting time. You want to make sure you have everything you need to keep it clean and welcoming. Here are some basic cleaning supplies you should have on hand:
- Dish detergent, laundry detergent
- All Purpose Cleaner
- Disinfecting Wipes
- Baking Soda (very multi-purpose!)
- Vinegar
- Window Cleaner
- Bathroom Cleaner
- Microfiber towels
- Sponges
- Floor Mop
- Smaller Vacuum to save space
FAQ
What are some essential kitchen items I should have for my new apartment?
Some essential kitchen items for your new apartment include: a set of knives, cutting board, measuring cups and spoons, pots and pans, mixing bowls, a can opener, spatula, and cooking utensils.
What furniture pieces are must-haves for a new apartment?
The must-have furniture pieces for a new apartment include a comfortable sofa, a versatile dining table with chairs, a bed frame with a mattress, and storage solutions like shelves or dressers.
What items can help with organization and storage in a new apartment?
Some items that can help with organization and storage in a new apartment are storage bins, shelves, over-the-door hooks, under-bed storage containers, and drawer dividers.
Are there any decor items that are essential for a new apartment?
Yes, essential decor items for a new apartment include curtains for privacy, a rug for warmth and style, and wall art to personalize the space. I’d recommend waiting until you have all your essential items first though before you start shopping for decor, that way you won’t run out of budget for the stuff you need!
Did this list help? 🙂 Add in your own fav essentials down in the comments!
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