Whether you’re moving into your first apartment right out of college or from home, there’s a lot you need to think about. “What should I buy?” “What is a necessity and what isn’t?” “Am I going to forget anything?” These are all valid and normal questions when it comes to moving into your very first apartment. We want to help you out by giving you the inside scoop on how to create a first apartment checklist.
Let’s start with the bedroom
Mattress
Obviously, the first thing you should invest in is a mattress. You need to sleep somewhere, right? Head to your local mattress store or take a stab at trusting reviews on Amazon and get a mattress that is right for you.
Bed Frame / Box Spring
Next, you’ll need to find a bed frame to hold your mattress so you’re not sleeping on the floor. There are many modern and easy-to-put-together beds out there, so you shouldn’t have a problem finding one. Don’t want a box spring? No problem! The wooden or steel plank beds are just as sturdy and get the job done.
Dresser / Night Stand
You have clothes, right? Then you need a dresser! You’ll need somewhere to store clothing other than a closet, plus the top of your dresser can hold things like a TV, jewelry, collectibles, and more. You’ll also want to invest in a nightstand. There’s nothing worse than not having a place to put your water bottle, glasses, book, etc. when you’re in bed.
Sheets / Comforter / Pillows
Your bed should be comfortable and ready for you to jump into after a long day. Make sure you grab at least 1 comforter and a couple of different sheet sets to start you off. If you’re the type of person that needs the best pillow to fit your sleeping habits, do your research and make sure you get it before night 1.
Hangers
Let’s not forget about hangers for the clothes that are going into your closet. There are many different types of hangers out there, and if you have a lot of clothes, the waterfall ones will be your best bet!
Let’s move on to the living room.
Couch
If you love to hang out in your living room to watch TV, have friends and family over, or just have a comfortable place to read, you’ll need a nice couch to sit on. If you’re not financially ready to get a big L couch, a futon will do the job until you’re ready!
Coffee Table
A coffee table will allow you to make the room feel more…roomy. Decorate it with flowers or something that shows your personality, and use it to throw the remote on, magazines, and of course, your cup of coffee!
Television
A television is some people’s first purchase. You’ll want something to entertain you and guests, so grab one that you see fit. If you want to mount it on the wall, don’t forget to get a mounter! Once you have this all set up, you can start binge-watching your favorite Netflix series under a blanket.
Let’s head into the bathroom.
Shower Curtain
A shower curtain is a crucial purchase. You don’t want to take a shower without anything covering you and stopping the water from splashing all over the floor. A shower curtain liner and hooks also are needed. If you have a glass shower, then we suggest you purchase a shower squeegee to keep the glass clean.
Bath / Hand Towels
Towels are also a necessity. If it’s just you, you can get away with a few towels at first. Make sure you have at least 3 or 4 hand towels that you can switch out, as well as bath towels. No one likes to air dry!
Toilet Paper / Soap
You need toilet paper… Well, you know the reason. But, make sure you have soap. Hand soap for the sink as well as soap, shampoo, conditioner, etc., for the shower. Your first shower in your new apartment should not lack relaxation.
Let’s go into the kitchen.
Table and Chairs / Barstools
A kitchen table and chairs (or bar stools if you have an island) should be purchased sooner than later. You’ll need someone for you and your guests to sit and eat, enjoy tea or coffee, and relax.
Plates, Bowls, Glasses, Mugs, Utensils
Paper plates, bowls, cups, etc. get pricey over time, fill up your garbage quickly, and are not great for the environment. Instead, invest in some nice but cheap ones that are perfect for you. You don’t need anything fancy to start you off, just make sure you have enough mugs for your morning coffee – that’s a must.
Trashcan
Trash Cans are oddly on the expensive side, but if you get a good one, you’ll have it forever. If you have a spot to pull out a trash can from under your sink, go with that! It keeps your kitchen looking tidy and less cluttered. If not, figure out which one best suits you. If you’re a fan of recycling, go with the half garbage/ half recycling ones. That way you don’t have to take up more space with two different bins.
Anything Else?
A few other things that you should have included:
- A tool kit for repairs
- Batteries
- Light bulbs
- Tape
- Scissors
- Cleaning supplies (vacuum, sponges, etc.)
- First-aid kit essentials (band-aids, antibiotic ointment, thermometer, etc.)
- Safety essentials (smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers)
You should now be ready to live in your first apartment! We hope this checklist helped you out. If you’re looking for a moving company that will keep the moving experience totally stress-free, fill out a FREE QUOTE on our website. We’d love to help you out!
