Important First Apartment Essentials You Won’t Want to Forget

This first apartment essentials list covers all the first apartment essentials that you will need when moving into your first apartment.

I really wish I created a first apartment essentials checklist when I moved into my first apartment! It would have made the whole process so much easier and I definitely would have saved so much time and money.

Without a first apartment essentials checklist, you may end up buying too much or too little, wasting your precious time and money.

You do not need to buy everything at once, but having a checklist to refer back to is extremely helpful. It can also help you plan out your space since you will have an idea of what you will be purchasing.

I’ve created this list to help you plan out your first apartment essentials and make the process a bit easier.

This post is all about first apartment essentials.

Best First Apartment Essentials

Kitchen:

1. Dish Set

There are some really good and affordable dish sets in all different colors. I personally would stick to white at first since they will easily match with whichever other kitchenware you purchase.

I would also buy dish sets over single plates and bowls since that way everything will match easily.

2. Flatware

Just like with the dish sets, there are so many beautiful utensils out there in so many different colors.

I again would stick to the classics because you may end up changing your style in the future, and if you do, silver will pretty much match anything.

3. Pots and Pans

Pots and pans are definitely one of the first apartment essentials. Having good pots and pans will help you make more food at home which will be healthier and cheaper than take out.

I like buying the sets because you usually can get quite a few pieces for a great price.

4. Cooking Utensils

If you are going to be cooking food at home then you will probably want to pick up a set like this. Silicone cooking utensils are great because they are non stick and look great too.

I love this khaki color set because it goes with anything and looks amazing on the countertop.

5. Toaster

A toaster is an obvious first apartment essential and there are so many types out there. I love the look of this one, it reminds me of the more expensive toaster brands but at a fraction of the price.

6. Coffee Machine

A coffee machine may not be a first apartment essential for everyone but it definitely is for me! If you are anything like me and can’t start your morning without a good cup of coffee, then you’ll wanna grab yourself a good coffee maker.

I personally love Nespresso. I love the taste of the coffee and I find the machines to be very sleek and expensive looking.

A Keurig machine is also a great option as well.

7. Blender

A blender is one of those great first apartment essentials because they can be used for so many things. This one is great because it comes with a blender, a food processer and a smaller blender attachment for a really good price.

A Nutribullet is also a great option if you are looking for something a bit smaller.

8. Tea Kettle

A tea kettle is great to have in the kitchen, but I like having one that heats up fast and looks good.

This one is glass and lights up blue which gives a really cool effect.

9. Air Fryer

An air fryer is not something I would’ve considered a first apartment essential in the past, but after I got one I consider it an essential!

Air fryers are almost like mini ovens but they heat up food MUCH faster and better in my opinion. They make food nice and crispy without all the oil of deep frying.

I use air fryers for almost everything! They’re also perfect to use for heating up food because unlike a microwave, they wont make your food all soggy.

They are great for frying too because you won’t get oil everywhere and it will contain any food smells so your whole apartment won’t smell like your dinner.

10. Mixing Bowls

Mixing bowls are good to have for so many things but I particularly love these ones because they come with lids to store food too.

11. Food Storage Containers

Food storage containers are so handy to have especially if you are planning to cook from home. I personally love glass ones because I find they don’t stain like plastic ones do.

These ones are also great to take as lunch containers since they lock and you won’t have to worry about food spilling.

12. Fridge Organizers

I didn’t think these were one of the first apartment essentials when I first moved into my apartment, but now I wished I did buy them right away.

Fridge organizers make it so easy to organize and see your food. This has helped me actually see what I have and not throw food away, and it makes me actually want to cook more since everything is nicely organized.

I wish I bought these when I first moved in because it’s much easier to organize everything right when you move in rather than having to do it later.

13. Produce Containers

Just like with the fridge organizers, I wish I had bought produce containers right away. These can make your produce last WAY longer which will save you from throwing food out and wasting money.

They will also save you time because you can wash and cut most of your produce and have them ready to eat in these containers.

14. Oven Mitts

Oven mitts are definitely something you want to get right away if you are planning on using your oven. I made the mistake of thinking I could just use kitchen towels and have burnt myself too many times.

15. Water Filter

A water filter is a great way to save money and reduce buying plastic water bottles.

16. Paper Towel Holder

Don’t forget a paper towel holder. This one is great because it has a grip so you can easily tear only what you need easily with one hand which is super convenient when cooking and cleaning.

17. Kitchen Towels

Kitchen towels are one of the first apartment essentials that you won’t want to forget since they are used for so many things.

These ones are super absorbent but look good too!

18. Trash Can

A trash can isn’t the most exciting thing to buy for your first apartment but is definitely needed.

I suggest going with one like this that has a spot for trash and recycling to save space and make your life easier.

19. Dish Drying Rack

Even if you have a dishwasher in your apartment, you’ll still want to pick up a small dish drying rack for stuff that you can’t handwash.

20. Drinking Glasses

I really love this set of drinking glasses! They look so sleek and expensive but are super affordable.

21. Drawer Organizer

These drawer organizers are super affordable and definitely worth getting right away. There’s nothing more frustrating than a super unorganized drawer.

22. Measuring Set

This is a great measuring set since it comes with 3 different types for an affordable price.

23. Ice Cube Trays

It’s a good idea to grab ice cube trays for smoothies and for drinks, especially if you are planning a house warming party. The silicone ones are best because they’re much easier to get the ice out of.

24. Can Opener

This is definitely one of those first apartment essentials that you don’t want to forget. Especially when it’s late at night and you need to open a can!

25. Scissors

Scissors are definitely something you’ll want to pick up right away since you wont want to be without them when you need them.

26. Baking Sheets

Even if you’re not much of a baker, an affordable bakeware set is good to have in case you ever have the urge to make some late night cupcakes!

Cleaning:

1. Kitchen Sponges

Even if you have a dishwasher, you’ll want to grab a couple of these for handwash only items.

2. Paper towels

I try to avoid using paper towel and use reusable cloths as much as I can but sometimes, for the real yukky messes, it’s good to have some paper towel in the house.

3. Cleaning Cloths

You’ll want to stock up on some cleaning cloths when moving into your first apartment since you’ll most likely want to clean before moving in.

4. All Purpose Cleaning Spray

Since you’ll most likely be cleaning your new apartment when moving in, it’s a good idea to pick up a couple all purpose cleaners. You’ve probably heard of Mrs. Meyer’s because their products are SO good, and they smell amazing!

5. Toilet Brush

I recently switched from a traditional toilet bowl cleaner and brush to this toilet wand and I will never go back! I used to get so grossed out by the toilet brush wondering if there was any bacteria on it.

This wand is so easy to use and you use a new scrubber each time so no more worrying about bacteria sitting at the bottom on the toilet brush. And it gets the toilet SO clean!

6. Laundry Soap

You’ll want to grab some laundry soap when shopping for your first apartment essentials so you don’t end up having to run out for some when you need to do laundry.

7. Vacuum

I personally prefer vacuuming over sweeping because I find it’s faster and does a better job.

I always opt for a cordless one though because I can’t stand having to move the cord around. It sounds silly but having a good vacuum can actually make vacuuming somewhat enjoyable.

8. Mop

I really love using a spray mop because I find it SO much easier and faster to use than a traditional mop with bucket. I love using one like this one where I can use my own cleaning solution and where I can wash the mop pads.

It saves me so much money and makes it SO much easier to mop.

Bathroom:

1. Towels

Towels are an obvious first apartment essential. I personally like getting a matching set so everything looks cohesive.

2. Shower Curtain

If you don’t have a glass shower door then you’ll want to grab a shower curtain. I absolutely love the minimal design of this one.

3. Shower Organizer

This shower organizer is an affordable way to keep all your shower essentials neat and organized.

4. Bath Mat

You should definitely grab a bath mat so you don’t slip when getting out of the shower!

5. Bathroom Accessories Set

I love the look of a matching bathroom set because it really gives the bathroom a cohesive look. I especially love this marble one because it looks good but is really affordable as well.

6. Bathroom Organizer

This bathroom organizer is great to put under the sink or even on a shelf to organize anything from skincare to makeup, or even hair tools.

7. Laundry Basket

This laundry basket has a minimal look so it will blend nicely in the background.

Living Room:

1. Couch

I absolutely love the look of this couch! It’s also small enough to fit in small living rooms while still having the part to put your feet up.

They have so many different color options and a smaller loveseat as well.

2. Coffee Table

This coffee table is such a nice design but is also a good size without taking up too much room.

3. TV Stand

I really like this tv stand because it’s not too large but it has a lot of space for storage. It’s also super affordable compared to a lot of the other tv stands out there.

This would even work as a storage unit if you were planning on mounting your tv to the wall.

4. TV

I really love how affordable this tv is! And you can use it with Alexa which is great on those super lazy days when you don’t even want to reach for the remote.

Bedroom:

1. Bed Frame

I really love the minimal look of this bed frame. It comes in different colors depending on your style.

2. Mattress

I used to sleep on spring mattresses but ever since I tried a foam mattress I will NEVER go back! The difference in comfort is unbelievable. Sometimes foam mattresses can be quite pricey so I really like how affordable this one is.

3. Bed Sheets

You’ll want to add one or two sets of bedsheets to your first apartment checklist. I really love the look of this set, reminds me of staying at a hotel.

4. Duvet

I personally love duvets over comforters. Since you can remove the cover, they are easier to keep clean and to change the style whenever you want.

5. Nightstand

I absolutely love the minimal look of this nightstand! It gives you a place to put your things at night without being bulky.

6. Dresser

This dresser is great because it’s not too big and it has a nice minimal modern look which looks great with any style.

7. Curtains

I personally only use blackout curtains for my bedroom because I have seen such an improvement in my sleep ever since using them!

8. Lamps

These lamps are perfect on a nightstand. They are a simple minimal look and they have usb slots for charging.

9. Hangers

These hangers are great for non slip and are a great price!

This post was all about the best first apartment essentials.

Some Other Posts you May Like

37 MUST-HAVE SMALL DESK ORGANIZATION IDEAS TO STAY PRODUCTIVE

27 GORGEOUS BEAUTY ROOM DECOR IDEAS TO CREATE A BEAUTIFUL AND FEMININE SPACE

AMAZING ITEMS THAT CAN HELP YOU DECLUTTER INSTANTLY