Your First-Apartment Checklist: Essentials for Move-In Day
Moving into your first apartment is an experience like no other. The feeling of sitting on your couch in the living room or making the first cup of tea in your kitchen is indescribable – there’s just something about having your own space that can’t be put into words.
Even with all the excitement, acquiring everything you need for your new place can still feel overwhelming. There is so much you could buy, from the smallest décor items to the largest piece of furniture!
Our number one tip for buying items for your apartment? Choose a budget and stick to it. With all the moving costs and other related expenses, alongside shopping for your apartment, it’s easy to spend more money than you set out to. Once you’ve set your budget, you can pick and choose the items you need – always start with the essentials!
To help you figure out what you’ll be buying, we’ve put together this ultimate first apartment checklist.
1. Kitchenware
It can be tempting to get takeout every night, but costs can add up fast. A well-equipped kitchen will help keep you fed and on budget. Even if you’re not a fan of cooking, it’s important to have a few pots handy whenever you need to whip up a quick snack – and, of course, plates, cups, and cutlery to go with them!
There’s no need to buy all different types and sizes of pots and pans as soon as you move in – start with a few of each and add more to your kitchen as you discover your cooking preferences. Once settled in, you can also start investing in a microwave, blender, slow cooker or any other kitchen equipment.
2. Cleaning Supplies
No place can be a home without cleaning supplies. A few of the essentials include:
- Trash bags
- Paper towels
- Dustpan and broom (or vacuum!)
- Dish soap
- Sponges
- Toilet scrubber
- Surface cleaner
- Laundry detergent
Remember, if you’re moving into a spacious location, you’ll want to buy enough cleaning supplies for the entire place.
3. Bedroom
If you’re moving into an unfurnished place, you’ll need to invest in a good mattress and bed frame. A comfortable mattress is arguably the most important purchase for your new apartment, so you should invest accordingly!
Furnished place? You can still add a bit of your own charm to your bedroom by buying:
- Sheets
- Pillows
- Comforter or duvet
- Storage solutions such as plastic organizers and containers to place under the bed
4. Bathroom
Bath and face towels are the first items you should buy for your new bathroom. Make sure you buy enough to last you between laundry cycles! In addition to your basic toiletries (toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant…etc), you might also need to add a few items such as wall hooks, a shower curtain, a plunger, a small crash can, and a bathmat.
5. Wellness Essentials
Unfortunately, accidents happen, and you’re going to get sick sooner or later… but having a first aid kit on hand will help you treat yourself within the comfort of your home. You can purchase a simple kit and supplement it with bandages of different sizes, tweezers, cotton balls, painkillers, a thermometer, burn cream and any other medical necessities you feel you might need.
6. Food
Often when we think of essentials for an apartment, we consider furniture or décor items, completely ignoring the importance of stocking up your pantry. Having a smartly stocked kitchen can save you money in the long-run, and will serve as a starting supply for basic meals you’ll cook at home. Some food must-haves:
- Rice
- Bread
- Flour
- Coffee or Tea
- Grains
- Pasta
- Spices
- Canned food
- Frozen meals for when you’re running short on time!
7. Miscellaneous items
A few tools can go a long way in your apartment. A hammer, screwdriver, wrench and flashlight are found in any toolkit, and will serve as your helpers when any appliances, furniture, or equipment need basic maintenance.
You can also choose to invest in fans, irons and ironing boards, and area rugs – plus any décor that brings your personality into your home!
Still looking for your first apartment? Check out our listings in Sweden and we’ll match you with the right roommate!