20 Overlooked Essentials For Your First Apartment (Checklist)

Moving into your first apartment is a major life milestone.
It’s a chance to live on your own and create a space that’s truly yours. It’s also an opportunity to spend a lot of money.
Moving can be expensive, and so can setting up a new apartment, even if you’re sticking to the basics.
While your first apartment may be the culmination of years of saving and dreaming, it’s important to resist the temptation to overspend on furnishings and decor.
You can save money and still have a beautiful, comfortable apartment.
The key is to focus on the essentials and resist the urge to buy everything all at once.
Use this checklist of the 20 most commonly overlooked essentials for your first apartment to help you stick to your budget.
1. Air fresheners

If you’re moving into a space that’s been occupied by someone else, it’s a good idea to stock up on air fresheners.
You can also use air fresheners to make your space feel more like home. There are so many options available, from sprays to plug-ins to candles.
Pick your favorite scent and make sure to have a few on hand.
2. Tool kit

A small tool kit can be a lifesaver when you’re trying to make improvements to your apartment.
Plus, you’ll need it to put together any furniture that comes in pieces.
Your tool kit doesn’t have to be anything fancy, but you should at least have a hammer, a screwdriver, screws and nails, a measuring tape, and a level.
You might also need a wrench, pliers, and other tools depending on your needs.
If you’re not sure what you’ll need, you can always ask your parents for help or buy a more comprehensive tool kit.
3. Plunger

You don’t want to be caught without this essential tool. Hopefully, you’ll never have to use it, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.
A plunger will clear out clogs in your toilet. It’s a simple tool, but it’s a must-have for every apartment.
4. Cleaning supplies

Your apartment will probably be cleaned before you move in, but it’s always a good idea to give it a once-over before you start unpacking.
You’ll also need cleaning supplies to keep your new place looking and smelling fresh.
You can buy a pre-packed cleaning kit or buy supplies individually.
At a minimum, you’ll need an all-purpose cleaner, paper towels, a mop, a broom and dustpan, a vacuum, and trash bags.
If you have a washer and dryer in your unit, you’ll also need laundry detergent.
5. Extension cords

Extension cords are a must for any apartment. You’ll never have enough outlets, and it’s important not to overload the ones you do have.
Extension cords are also handy for plugging in electronics that are far from an outlet.
Make sure you’re using these safely by following our guide on how to use an extension cord.
6. Lamps

Lighting is often overlooked when moving into a new apartment.
Many apartments come with harsh ceiling lights, which can make a space feel less like home and more like a warehouse.
Consider adding a few floor and table lamps to your space to help create a cozy and inviting environment. Pro tip:
Add smart light bulbs to your lamps to easily control the lighting in your space.
7. Curtains

Curtains are a great way to give your apartment a homey feel. Plus, they can help block out light and noise, giving you a better night’s sleep.
You can find curtains in a variety of colors and styles to match your decor.
Be sure to measure your windows before you head to the store.
You’ll want to get curtains that are wide enough to cover the entire window and long enough to reach the floor.
If you can’t find curtains in the right size, you can always buy a longer pair and hem them to fit.
8. Trash cans

You’ll need a trash can for the kitchen and at least one for the bathroom.
If you have a larger apartment, you might want to have a trash can in the living room and bedroom as well.
You can go with a traditional trash can or opt for a more stylish one, like a small wicker basket for your bathroom.
Don’t forget to buy a box of trash bags and liners for your cans.
9. Trash bags

You can never have too many trash bags.
Get a box of them so you’ll always have them on hand. Pro tip: Don’t wait until the bag is overflowing to take it out.
Your kitchen will start to smell, and you don’t want to be that neighbor.
10. Step stool

If you’re moving into a larger space, you might need to paint or hang some things.
Or, you might just need to reach the top shelves in your kitchen. A step stool comes in handy in so many situations.
Plus, if you’re moving into an older apartment, you might not have a washer and dryer in your unit, and you’ll need to use a shared laundry room.
A step stool will help you get your laundry done more efficiently.
11. Batteries
You never know when you’ll need some extra batteries.
This is especially true when you’re moving into a new place and you might not know yet where to plug in the lamp, where to hang the clock, or where to use the remote.
It’s a good idea to have a variety of batteries on hand so you don’t have to make a special trip to the store when you need them.
12. Light bulbs
You never know when a light bulb is about to go out. It’s always a good idea to have a few on hand for when it does.
Make sure to get the right size for your light fixture.
13. Hangers
Hangers are one of those things that you don’t realize you need until you don’t have them.
Sure, you can fold your clothes and keep them in drawers, but that’s a lot of unnecessary work.
You can find affordable packs of hangers at stores like Walmart and Target.
14. Toilet paper
If you’re moving into a new apartment, chances are you’ll want to use the bathroom at some point.
That’s why toilet paper is a must-have for your new place. You can buy a pack of toilet paper at your local grocery store, or order a supply from Amazon.
If you’re moving in with roommates, consider designating one person to be in charge of restocking the toilet paper in the bathroom.
Trust us, you’ll thank yourself later.
15. Paper towels
Paper towels are one of those things you don’t realize you need until you need them.
Save yourself the trouble and have a roll on hand for spills and messes.
You can also buy a pack of cleaning cloths and sponges to keep under your sink for easy access.
16. Cleaning rags
You’ll want to keep your new apartment spick and span. While paper towels can be used to clean, they’re not the most eco-friendly option.
Instead, consider investing in a few packs of cleaning rags.
You can use them to wipe down surfaces, clean up spills or dust. Best of all, you can toss them in the washing machine and use them over and over again.
17. Broom and dustpan
You may not have a lot of floor space to cover in your first apartment, but it’s still important to have a broom and dustpan on hand.
If you have hardwood floors, you may also want to invest in a small vacuum.
Messy spills and tracked-in dirt are inevitable, and it’s best to tackle them right away. Plus, if you have pets, a broom and dustpan will be your best friends.
18. Laundry basket
If you’re moving into an apartment with an in-unit washer and dryer, you’re going to need a laundry basket.
If your apartment building has a communal laundry room, you might want to consider getting a laundry basket on wheels to make transporting your clothes easier.
Another option is a foldable laundry basket that you can store in a closet or under your bed when it’s not in use.
19. Over-the-door hooks
Storage is likely to be limited in your first apartment.
You can create more storage options by using over-the-door hooks in your bedroom, bathroom or closet.
These hooks are perfect for hanging towels, robes, jackets, purses, hats, belts, scarves, and more.
You can also find over-the-door hooks with baskets, shelves, and even a mirror. The options are endless.
20. Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
It’s important to know what type of detectors you need in your apartment.
Most states require a smoke detector in every bedroom and one in the main living area.
Carbon monoxide detectors are required in most states if you have gas appliances. It’s always a good idea to have a fire extinguisher on hand as well.
Conclusion
You may not have the time or energy to cook every night, so you’ll probably want to have some frozen meals on hand. Just make sure you have a microwave-safe container to heat them up in.
Living on your own for the first time can be a bit overwhelming, but you can make the transition a lot easier by making sure you have everything you need. Use the checklist above to get everything you need for your first apartment.