All the Essentials for a First Apartment 

Setting up your first apartment is thrilling, marking a significant step toward independence and self-discovery. And with that comes the daunting and often confusing list of all the essentials for a first apartment. 

Whether transitioning from a college dorm, moving out of your parent's home, or simply heading out on your own for the first time, the process can be both exhilarating and overwhelming.  

From furnishing your space to stocking up on necessities, there's much to consider when creating a comfortable and functional living environment. Let's dive into the essentials for your first apartment, covering everything from furniture to kitchenware and beyond! 

Your Furniture 

First Apartment Furniture Checklist: 

• Bed 
• Couch 
• Table and Chairs 
• Storage Solutions 
• Desk and Chair 
• End tables 
• Night Stand 
• Coffee Table 
• TV Stand or Entertainment Center 
• Clothes Dresser 

The Right Size Bed for Your Bedroom 

Your bed is the centerpiece of your bedroom, where you spend nearly half of your life! Investing in a comfortable mattress and sturdy bed frame is crucial for a good night's sleep and being your best self throughout the day. Arguably, it's the most essential for a first apartment. 

To choose the right bed, consider your space and personal preferences and decide whether you want a twin, full, queen, or king-sized bed. For example, if your new apartment's primary bedroom is limited, a full-sized bed will be better than a comfy king because it allows for more space for a dresser or other bedroom furniture. 

A Comfy Couch for the Living Room 

A cozy sofa is a must-have for your living room. It provides a comfortable spot to relax, welcome guests, or binge-watch your favorite shows! If your budget allows, consider features like durability, size, and comfort level. Otherwise, choose an inexpensive couch that will do the job!  

Some excellent places to find couches and other furniture at discounted prices are: 

• Goodwill and other second-hand stores 
• Facebook Marketplace 
• Garage Sales 
• Amazon 
• Old furniture from family, friends, and neighbors who want to upgrade 

Table and Chairs for Meal Times 

Whether enjoying a solo meal or hosting friends for dinner, a table and chairs are essential for your kitchen or dining area. Choose a table size that fits your space and lifestyle, and consider versatile options like extendable tables or folding chairs for smaller apartments. Keep in mind that a breakfast table may be all you need!  

Smart Storage Solutions 

When looking for other essentials for a first apartment, it's important to think of storage that organizes your limited apartment. Maximize your space with multifunctional furniture pieces that offer storage solutions: 

• Ottomans with hidden compartments 
• Bed frames with built-in drawers 
• Bookshelves that double as room dividers 
• Entertainment centering with spacious cabinets 

You also may need baskets and storage containers to separate things and give them proper homes. 

Desk and Chair for Work or Studies  

Working from home is very common nowadays. Additionally, many people who are getting their first apartment are students. Not every home needs a desk and chair, but if you do need one, it makes all the difference and isn't a furniture piece to compromise on. Look for a budget-friendly desk with plenty of workspace and storage to keep you working at your best. 

The Kitchen  

First Apartment Kitchen Checklist: 

• Pots and Pans 
• Utensils and Silverware 
• Plates and Bowls 
• Cups 
• Wine glasses 
• Mugs 
• Coffee Maker 
• Toaster 
• Blender 
• Microwave 

A basic Set of Pots and Pans 

Equip your kitchen with a basic cookware set, including pots, pans, and skillets in various sizes. Non-stick coatings, durable materials, and dishwasher-safe options are all factors to consider when choosing cookware. However, if your funds are limited, focus on the essentials for a first apartment and continue adding to your collection as you discover what you need. 

Utensils and Silverware to Cook and Eat With 

Stock your kitchen with essential utensils and cutlery, such as spatulas, mixing spoons, knives, forks, and spoons.  

Essential Dishes 

Choose a dinnerware set that suits your style and dining needs. For your first apartment, casual ceramic plates for everyday meals are the goal, while elegant porcelain dishes for special occasions can be invested later. Include essentials like dinner plates, salad plates, and bowls. 

Cups, Mugs, and Glasses 

A collection of glassware, from water glasses to wine glasses and coffee mugs, is another essential for moving into an apartment. Consider investing in durable glassware that's dishwasher-safe and suitable for hot and cold drinks to make day-to-day tasks and meal times a little easier. 

Necessary Kitchen Appliances 

While you don't need every kitchen gadget on the market, certain appliances can make cooking and meal prep more convenient.  

Below are some of the basic kitchen appliances to get you started with your apartment: 

• Microwave 
• Toaster  
• Coffee maker 
• Blender 
• Kettle 

Cleaning Supplies to Keep Things Tidy 

First Apartment Cleaning Supplies Checklist: 

• Cleaning Products 
• Duster 
• Vacuum 
• Broom 
• Small Towels or Rags 
• Mop 
• Dish Soap 
• Sponge 
• Laundry Detergent 

Keep your apartment clean and tidy with a selection of cleaning supplies, including all-purpose cleaners, disinfectant wipes, dish soap, laundry detergent, and trash bags. Remember to include essential cleaning tools like a vacuum cleaner, broom, mop, and dustpan. 

Basic Linens for Your First Apartment 

First Apartment Linens Checklist: 

• Towels 
• Bed Sheets and Comforter 
• Bed Pillows 
• Pillow Covers 
• Throw Pillows 
• Throw Blankets 

Stock up on essential linens and towels for your bedroom and bathroom, including sheets, pillowcases, blankets, towels, and washcloths. Look for soft, durable fabrics that are easy to clean and maintain, making keeping up with your belongings as easy as possible. 

Your Toiletries and Shower Products  

First Apartment Bathroom Supplies Checklist: 

• Shampoo and Conditioner 
• Toothpaste, Toothbrush, Deodorant, and other hygiene essentials 
• Toilet Paper 
• Hand Towels 
• Shower Curtain 
• Bathroom Rug 
• Shower Caddy 

The last thing you want to forget when moving into your new apartment is your toiletries! Equip your bathroom with essential hygiene products, such as soap, shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, toothbrush, toilet paper, and hand towels. Consider choosing a fun and expressive shower curtain or bath mat to add style and functionality to your space. 

Miscellaneous Essentials for a First Apartment 

First Apartment Decoration, Lighting, and Tech Checklist: 

• Wall Art and Photographs 
• Rugs 
• Curtains 
• House Plants 
• Vases 
• Lamps 
• TV and Streaming Devices 
• Decorative Shelves 
• WIFI Router 

Decor and Accessories 

Add personal touches and decorative elements that reflect your personality and style to make your apartment feel like home. Consider artwork, photographs, throw pillows, rugs, curtains, and other accessories to enhance your space and create a cozy atmosphere. 

Plants 

Bring the beauty of nature indoors with houseplants that add visual interest, improve air quality, and promote a sense of well-being. If you're new to caring for plants, choose low-maintenance plants that thrive indoors, such as succulents, pothos, snake, and spider plants. 

Lighting 

Set the mood and ambiance of your apartment with the proper lighting, including overhead lighting, floor lamps, table lamps, and task lighting. Experiment with different lighting fixtures and bulbs to create the perfect atmosphere for all you need! 

Technology and Entertainment 

Elevate your living experience with essential technology and entertainment devices, such as a television, streaming media player, sound system, and WiFi router. While some of these are optional for your first apartment, they are a massive help if you have the budget! 

The Ultimate Essentials for a First Apartment Checklist 

Setting up your first apartment is an exciting opportunity to create a space that reflects your personality, style, and lifestyle preferences. Consider your budget, space constraints, and individual preferences when selecting furnishings and accessories. Feel free to get creative and think outside the box to personalize your space and make it uniquely yours.  

Below is a complete checklist of all the essentials covered in this blog to make planning your first apartment much easier! 

Furniture: 

• Bed 
• Couch 
• Table and Chairs 
• Storage Solutions 
• Desk and Chair 
• End tables 
• Night Stand 
• Coffee Table 
• TV Stand or Entertainment Center 
• Clothes Dresser 

Kitchen: 

• Pots and Pans 
• Utensils and Silverware 
• Plates and Bowls 
• Cups 
• Wine glasses 
• Mugs 

• Coffee Maker 
• Toaster 
• Blender 
• Microwave 

Cleaning Supplies: 

• Cleaning Products 
• Duster 
• Vacuum 
• Broom 
• Small Towels or Rags 
• Mop 
• Dish Soap 
• Sponge 
• Laundry Detergent 

Linens: 

• Towels 
• Bed Sheets and Comforter 
• Bed Pillows 
• Pillow Covers 
• Throw Pillows 

• Throw Blankets 

Bathroom Supplies: 

• Shampoo and Conditioner 
• Toothpaste, Toothbrush, Deodorant, and other hygiene essentials 
• Toilet Paper 
• Hand Towels 
• Shower Curtain 
• Bathroom Rug 
• Shower Caddy 

Miscellaneous: 

• Wall Art and Photographs 
• Rugs 
• Curtains 
• House Plants 
• Vases 
• Lamps 
• TV and Streaming Devices 
• Decorative Shelves 
• WIFI Router 

CITED: Wayfair.com, Moving.com, Realsimple.com