Congratulations on moving into your first apartment!

Taking this leap in your life is huge, and we know you want to be as prepared as possible. This quick and easy list is a great reference for where to start when you’re putting together things for your new home.

These are the nine essentials you absolutely MUST have for your first apartment.

Trust me, you’re not going to want to skip anything here. These things are going to make life so much easier. So, let’s dive right in!

1.  Mattress

Without a doubt, the most important thing you can get for your first apartment is a place to rest your head at the end of the day.

It’s easy to put off, but you really shouldn’t. That air mattress isn’t doing your back much justice. If you put off buying a proper mattress, you may just end up on the floor longer than you anticipated.

Having a comfortable place to sleep at the end of the day is going to make all the difference in the world.

Buying a mattress isn’t as difficult as it might sound.

When you’re shopping around, find yourself a reliable option. You want your mattress built to last. That way, you’re not looking for a new one a year down the road.

2. Shower Curtain

You’ve got no excuse to skip this one.

Seriously, just do yourself a favor and get this before you do anything else.

When you finish unpacking, there are few things better than taking a nice, long shower. It’s a great way to christen your new apartment as your own. And to get the dirt and grime from the move off your body.

It just gives your bathroom that homey, lived-in feel.

3. Cleaning Supplies

This is one of those things that is best to have before you even move. Having cleaning supplies on hand is a great way to tackle any little spots and messes associated with moving.

If you see something that needs cleaning, you can take care of it immediately!

Some of the essentials you should bring along to your first apartment include:

  • Multi-purpose cleaning spray
  • Paper towels
  • Dish soap
  • Sponges
  • Laundry detergent
  • Broom
  • Trash can
  • Trash bags

It’s good to cover all your bases so you don’t have to worry about being unprepared should a mess suddenly present itself.

4. Kitchenware

As far as essentials go, kitchenware is pretty far up the list.

A well-stocked kitchen may not be the first thing on your priority list, but there are a few things that should be on your radar as you transition to your new apartment.

At the bare minimum, you need:

  • A plate, bowl, glass, mug, and set of silverware
  • Sharp knives
  • Cutting board
  • A pot, a skillet, and a baking tray
  • Utensils such as a spatula and a large spoon
  • A few food storage containers
  • Some resealable plastic bags

The rest of your kitchenware can be accumulated as time passes. As long as you have these essentials on hand, you should be set for a while.

5. Hangers

Putting your clothes in their proper place will make your first apartment really feel like home. That’s not a feeling you can get from living out of a box or laundry basket.

If you didn’t pack your clothes in a wardrobe box with the hangers included, make sure you pick up a few packs to take with you on the move.

It’s a small detail, but one that shouldn’t be overlooked. That’s why we consider it essential!

6. Bathroom Supplies

The bathroom is an essential room in your house. It could probably have an entire list of its own, but we’ll give you a rundown of the basics that you’re definitely going to need.

Toilet paper is a no-brainer. Get yourself a healthy amount of toilet paper so you have extra. You can’t really have too much toilet paper.

A plunger and toilet brush are crucial. Clogs are no joke.

Having a trash can in the bathroom is something you don’t want to skip. It keeps your countertops free from clutter created by the little tasks you do every day.

And finally, towels.

Hand towels and bath towels should be something you have from day one. How are you going to take that relaxing shower if you don’t have towels?

7. Furniture

A good rule of thumb is to have three things for your first apartment: a place to sit, a place to eat, and some lighting.

It’s almost necessary to have a good, reliable sofa in your home for hosting and relaxing.

If you want something that’s going to last, an investment on a sofa will never go to waste. However, if you plan to upgrade down the line or you have roommates that may not care as much about the furniture, go with something on the budget side instead.

A surface to put your plate and glass on is something we consider essential.

It doesn’t have to be a full dining set, though that’s a great way to go if you have space and funds. A sturdy coffee table can also function as the perfect little dining area.

And you can’t forget about the lighting.

There’s no need for you to get more than what you require to see what you’re doing. But if you want to go for a nice, bright effect, consider layering your lighting with a combination of floor lamps, table lamps, and smaller task lighting.

8. First Aid Kit

Every home should have a first aid kit, your first apartment included!

You never know when you might need one of these things, and it’s better to be safe than sorry. Accidents happen and you should have a way to solve them quickly so you’re not stuck improvising.

There are pre-made first aid kits available for purchase. But if you prefer to throw one together yourself, here are a few things you should include:

  • Band-Aids
  • Antibiotic ointment
  • Gauze pads
  • Antiseptic wipes
  • Ace bandages
  • Anti-inflammatory medicine (Advil)
  • Burn ointment
  • Cold pack

With these essentials in your first aid kit, you’ll always have peace of mind!

9. Food

We’re not going to get into your entire grocery list right now, but there are a few staples you should stock up on when you first move.

There’s no need to rely on fast food for a few weeks just because it’s your first apartment.

Grab these staples for your pantry:

  • Sugar
  • Flour
  • Cooking oil
  • Ketchup
  • Mustard

Store away a couple of handy spices such as:

  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • Garlic powder
  • Cinnamon

And stick a few things in your fridge like:

  • Eggs
  • Milk
  • Butter

You won’t be making any gourmet meals with this stuff, but you’ll have a good start for any meal you’re craving!

In Summary

Starting out on the right foot is important for any journey. With these nine essentials, you now have a solid foundation to begin the adventure of living in your first apartment.

I wish you the very best of luck!

Author Bio

Ryan SundlingRyan Sundling is a Group Marketing Manager at Cardinal Group Management. He has over 10 years of experience in the conventional housing industry and works with West 38 on a daily basis to help them with their marketing efforts.

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