Moving into your first apartment? Congrats — it’s a major milestone! 🎉 But with so many things to think about, it can quickly get overwhelming. What do you actually need? What can wait?
This guide has everything you need to confidently move into your new space — from kitchen gear to bathroom must-haves, plus helpful tips to save money and avoid common rookie mistakes.
Let’s make your first apartment feel like home 🏡
🛋️ Living Room Necessities
Your living room is where you’ll relax, binge-watch Netflix, and host friends. You don’t need to splurge to make it cozy.
Essentials:
- Couch or futon
- Coffee table
- TV + stand (or wall mount)
- Lamps or lighting
- Curtains or blinds
- Throw pillows & blanket
- Small bookshelf or storage unit
- Extension cords & power strips
Optional but nice:
- Rug
- Plants or wall art
- Side tables
🍽️ Kitchen Necessities
Whether you’re a meal-prepper or a microwave-only type, a stocked kitchen = fewer takeout bills.
Cooking Essentials:
- Pots and pans (small, medium, large)
- Cooking utensils (spatula, ladle, tongs, whisk)
- Cutting board
- Knives (chef’s knife is a must)
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Baking sheet
- Colander
- Can opener
- Scissors
Eating & Drinking:
- Plates & bowls (at least 4 of each)
- Cups, mugs & glasses
- Forks, knives & spoons
- Water pitcher or filter
Appliances (if not included):
- Microwave
- Toaster or toaster oven
- Coffee maker or kettle
- Blender
Other must-haves:
- Dish soap & sponge
- Trash bags
- Food storage containers
- Aluminum foil & cling wrap
- Paper towels
🛏️ Bedroom Essentials
Create a peaceful space to sleep, recharge, and chill.
Absolute musts:
- Bed frame
- Mattress
- Pillows
- Sheets (2 sets)
- Comforter or duvet
- Hangers
- Laundry basket
Smart extras:
- Bedside table
- Lamp
- Full-length mirror
- Drawer organizer or under-bed storage
🚿 Bathroom Necessities
Don’t get caught mid-shower without a towel or curtain!
Essentials:
- Shower curtain + rings
- Bath mat
- Towels (2–4 bath, 2 hand, 2 washcloths)
- Toothbrush & toothpaste
- Shampoo & soap
- Toilet paper
- Toilet brush & cleaner
- Plunger (trust us)
- Trash can
- Mirror
Helpful extras:
- Shower caddy
- Storage shelves
- Hair tools & holder
🧼 Cleaning Supplies
A clean space = better vibes and fewer pests.
Starter cleaning kit:
- All-purpose cleaner
- Dish soap
- Sponges & scrubbers
- Broom & dustpan
- Mop or Swiffer
- Vacuum (cordless is great for small apartments)
- Laundry detergent & fabric softener
- Trash bags
- Disinfecting wipes or spray
📦 Home Essentials & Random Must-Haves
These might seem small, but they’ll save you frustration later.
- Lightbulbs
- Extension cords
- Surge protector
- First aid kit
- Basic tool kit (screwdriver, nails, hammer)
- Command hooks & strips
- Batteries
- Flashlight
- Umbrella
- Storage bins
💡 Money-Saving Tips for First-Time Renters
- Buy secondhand: Check Facebook Marketplace, OfferUp, or local thrift stores for furniture and decor.
- Prioritize essentials: You don’t need everything on day one. Focus on functional items first.
- Ask friends/family: People often have extras they’re happy to give away.
- Look for bundles: Many stores offer starter kitchen or cleaning kits that are cheaper together.
Final Thoughts
Moving into your first apartment is exciting, but don’t let the stress of “having it all” take away the fun. Focus on the basics, take it room by room, and build your cozy space over time. 💛
Which room are you most excited to decorate first? Tell me in the comments!
