15 Ultimate Bedroom Essentials for First Apartment Living
Want to know the top bedroom essentials for first apartment living?
Preparing to move into your own apartment is one of the best feelings in the world. Finally, a space to call your own!
But along with that excitement comes the stress of figuring out what essentials you’ll need to create a comfortable and functional bedroom.
If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably found yourself wondering if you’re forgetting anything important.
Don’t worry—I’ve been in your shoes and I’m here to help. As a fellow renter, I know exactly what it takes to set up a cozy and budget-friendly bedroom.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the must-have essentials for your new bedroom, from mattresses and bed frames to decor and storage solutions.
By the time you’re done reading, you’ll feel completely prepared for your big move-in day. Let’s get started!
This post is all about the best bedroom essentials for first apartment living that every first-time renter should know about.
Bedroom Essentials for First Apartment
1. Mattress for First Apartment
Your mattress is one of the most important investments you’ll make for your new apartment.
Sleep quality affects everything—your mood, energy levels, and overall well-being—so take the time to find a mattress that truly suits your comfort needs.
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Personally, I love foam mattresses because they provide a cloud-like sleeping experience.
Right now, I’m using a hybrid mattress with a foam top layer and pocket spring coils underneath, and it’s honestly the most comfortable one I’ve ever owned.
Pro Tip: Check for online sales or holiday deals when shopping for a mattress. You can often find discounts that will save you a lot of money.
You can find affordable hybrid mattresses on Amazon.
2. Bed frame
A mattress isn’t complete without a bed frame. I recommend getting a bed frame that doesn’t require a box spring. It’ll save you money and make assembly much easier.
source: Amazon
When choosing a bed frame, go for a taller one (around 18 inches high).
This way, you can use the space underneath for storage bins. I use my storage bins to store off-season clothing, shoes, and extra linens.
Pro tip: To keep things looking tidy, add a bed skirt to hide the bins.
I got my bed frame from Amazon, and it was very easy to assemble.
3. Mattress Pad
Accidents happen, so do yourself a favor and get a mattress pad.
source: Amazon
Whether you spill your morning coffee or accidentally drop a snack in bed, a mattress pad will protect your mattress and make cleanup a breeze.
I got a machine-washable mattress pad from Amazon, and it’s been a lifesaver.
4. Comforter and Sheet Set
While some people swear by duvets, I love a cozy comforter set. I chose a boho-inspired comforter set. It looks great and feels super soft.
source: Amazon
For my sheet set, I got a great deal at TJ Maxx—under $30, and the quality is amazing!
You can find a similar king-sized white sheet set on Amazon.
Pro Tip: Check discount stores like Marshalls for sheet sets and comforters. You can often find high-quality options at a fraction of the price.
5. High-Quality Pillows
Pillows are a necessity for your first apartment! Good pillows are essential for quality sleep, and cheap ones can lead to neck pain and restless nights.
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I recommend investing in memory foam pillows that provide proper support and last a long time.
I’ve had mine for over a year, and they’re still super comfortable to sleep on.
Decorative pillows are also a great way to brighten up your bedroom and add a personal touch. For me, the more the merrier when it comes to pillows.
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Pro Tip: To save money and space, buy pillow covers and inserts separately so you can easily swap out styles whenever you want.
6. Curtain Rod and Blackout Curtains
Here’s something I forgot when I moved into my first apartment—curtain rods! Please don’t make the same mistake. Order a curtain rod and hardware set before your move-in day so you don’t end up scrambling for them later.
source: Amazon
Once you have a rod, I highly recommend getting blackout curtains. They block out light, which improves sleep quality, especially if you live in a busy area with street lights. I swear by it.
A pitch black room can really help you sleep a lot easier, especially if you’re someone like me with sleep issues.
I got mine from Amazon, and they’ve been a game-changer.
7. Side Tables with Fabric Drawers
Side tables are a must-have for keeping essentials like your phone or favorite book within reach. I opted for a bedside table with fabric drawers because it’s lightweight, affordable, and easy to assemble.
source: Amazon
I highly recommend them for first-time renters who want sleek and modern looking side-tables without spending a lot of money.
8. Bedside Lamp with USB Ports
Lighting sets the mood for your bedroom, and a good bedside lamp can make all the difference.
source: Amazon
I found an affordable lamp set on Amazon that includes USB ports, which makes charging my devices super convenient. Plus, it adds a warm ambiance to the room.
9. Dresser
Keeping your clothes organized is crucial in a small apartment. Instead of splurging on a heavy wooden dresser, consider a fabric dresser. They’re lightweight, easy to assemble, and much cheaper than traditional options.
source: Amazon
You can get a fabric dresser that looks so beautiful and they’re usually half the cost of getting a “real” dresser from a furniture store.
Mine looks great, and it only took about 40 minutes to put together.
10. Wall Art
Your bedroom should feel like the coziest and most beautiful place on earth, so invest in some wall decor.
You don’t have to go overboard though—a few large wall prints can make a big impact without costing much.
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In my bedroom, I opted for three large botanical wall prints (16” x 24”) that are placed above my bed.
It’s a simple way to show off your personality in your bedroom without breaking the bank.
Pro Tip: Buy art prints and frames separately to save money. This also gives you more flexibility to change your decor later.
11. Clothes Hangers
Most of your clothes won’t fit in a dresser, so hangers are essential. Plastic hangers make me want to rip my hair out because they’re too slippery.
So, I swear by velvet hangers because they prevent clothes from slipping off. And, they make your closet look more organized.
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You can find affordable packs of velvet hangars at discount stores or on Amazon.
12. Laundry Hamper
A laundry hamper might not be glamorous, but it’s definitely a bedroom essential.
source: Amazon
It’s just more aesthetically pleasing to put your clothes in a hamper, as opposed to just putting it on the ground. Even though I’m sometimes guilty of doing that lol.
Choose one with handles so it’s easy to carry to the washing machine.
You can find the boho-style laundry hamper shown above on Amazon.
13. Electrical Power Strip
Apartments rarely have enough outlets, so a power strip is a lifesaver. Plus, using the on/off switch on the strip can help you save on your energy bill.
14. Candle or Plug-Ins
A good-smelling room feels more inviting, so pick up a candle or plug-in air freshener.
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While Bath & Body Works has great candles, you can find more budget-friendly options at TJ Maxx or Marshalls.
You can usually get more candles for less money by choosing to go to a budget friendly place like Marshalls.
Bedroom Essentials for First Apartment FAQs
What should you buy for your bedroom?
The basic items you need for your bedroom include a mattress, bed frame, comforter and sheet set, dresser, side tables, a curtain rod, and blackout curtains.
How much money should you have saved before getting an apartment?
You should save enough for your security deposit (usually 1.5x rent) and three months worth of rent—just to have a savings cushion.
Additionally, budget for furniture and other essentials you’ll need—so around $8,000 is a good starting point.
What are some home necessities to buy first?
Start with a mattress, bed frame, comforter set, couch, TV, a TV stand, and a dresser. Try to shop during holiday sales to get the best deals on these items.
This post was all about the best bedroom essentials for apartment living.
With these tips and product recommendations, you’ll be able to create a cozy and stylish bedroom without breaking the bank. Happy moving!