Moving into your first apartment is an exciting time. It’s your first taste of absolute freedom from your family, close friends, and dorm life. Since it’s your first time renting, there will be plenty to think about when planning your move. To help, we’ve compiled a move-in checklist of everything you’ll need. From light bulbs to hand towels, here’s what to get before moving into your first place.
The Basics
To start, you’ll want to think about the necessities. Consider each room and decide which staples you already have, the ones you’re getting from a relative or friend, and which things you still need to buy. Read through the list below and use it as a rough guide to help make your first apartment feel like home from the beginning.
Bedroom
- Mattress and bed frame
- Sheets, blankets, and pillows
- Clothes and shoes
- Phone charger
- Lamp
Bathroom
- Toothbrush/toothpaste
- Soap
- Towels (hand and bath)
- Toilet paper
Kitchen
- Utensils
- Plates, bowls, cups, and mugs
- Hand towel
- Microwave
Living Room
- Coffee table
- Couch
- TV
The Next Level
Once you’ve taken care of the necessities, you can start to think about how you’ll arrange each room and what you’ll want in them. Start with your living room and work your way through to your bedroom. Keep your personal aesthetic in mind and decorate how you want; this is your place after all!
Living Room
- Love seats
- Tapestry/wall decor
- Pillows and blankets
- Plants
- TV stand
Kitchen
- Can and wine openers
- Tupperware
- Crock pot
- Pots and pans
- Blender, mixer, and baking sheets
- Sponges and dishwasher detergent
- Trash can
- Oven mitts
- Cooking knives
- Coffee maker, coffee, and filters
Bedroom
- Paintings/picture frames
- Comforter and throw pillows
- Night stand
- Bookshelf
- Hangers
- Dresser/wardrobe
- Full-length mirror
Miscellaneous
- Light bulbs
- Cleaning supplies
- Tool kit (screwdriver, hammer, nails, thumbtacks, wrench)
- Floor rug(s)
- Shoe rack
Things to Do Before Move-In
Along with deciding how to set up your new apartment, you’ll want to prepare for your move before the day actually comes. Make sure to call ahead and set up the utilities in your name, schedule movers (unless you’re moving your own things), and do some smart packing. When moving day comes, you’ll be excited, so have everything planned out and taken care of beforehand and you’ll stay on track.
Of course you can add anything you want to this move-in checklist, so feel free to personalize it and make it your own. Think about the colors and style of things you want, things you can live without, and things you really want in your space. Once you’re all moved into your new place, you’ll have plenty of time to reiterate on your apartment style and decor.
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