Stressed About Moving? This First Apartment Essentials Checklist Makes Life Easier! (56 Items!)

Want to know the must-have first apartment essentials checklist? 

Getting your own apartment is a huge achievement, but figuring out which apartment essentials to buy can feel overwhelming. 

You don’t want to overspend on things you’ll never use, but you also don’t want to miss out on key items that make your space functional and cozy.

When I moved into my first studio apartment in 2021, I learned the hard way what I actually needed to buy—hello, garbage can I forgot on day one 😅.

By my next move in 2024, I had it all figured out—easy peasy lemon squeasy. In this post, I’ll help you avoid those same mistakes so you can feel completely prepared for your big move.

I’ll guide you through all the essential items for your new apartment—living room must-haves, bedroom necessities, kitchen staples, and even those often-overlooked items most first-time renters forget. 

Let’s turn your new space into a true home! 

This post is about the ultimate first apartment essentials checklist for apartment renters.

First Apartment Essentials Checklist 

Living Room Essentials 

Your living room is where you’ll spend a lot of your time—watching TV, relaxing after work, or spending time with loved ones. Below are the living room essentials every first-time renter needs to create a beautiful and practical space.

1. Couch

A couch is a must-have for any living room. It’s the centerpiece of the space and should be the second most comfortable spot in your apartment— after your bed. 

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To purchase the couch shown above, click here.

Investing in a durable and comfortable couch is key, because ideally you’ll be using it for many years. 

I bought mine from Ashley Furniture in 2021, and it’s held up well over time. If you’re on a tighter budget, check out Facebook Marketplace for affordable options.

Pro tip: Before purchasing, measure your living room to make sure the couch fits perfectly. You don’t want to end up with something too large or too small for the space.

2. TV

A TV is another must-have, especially if your living room doubles as your entertainment hub. 

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, check out sales at Walmart or Amazon.

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To purchase the 43″ TV shown above, click here.

3. TV Stand

Unless you plan to mount your TV on the wall, you’ll need a TV stand. It not only holds the TV but also provides extra storage space for random things like remotes, batteries, etc.

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To purchase the cute farmhouse style TV Stand shown above, click here.

4. Side Table

A side table is an underrated living room essential. You’ll need it for things like a table lamp, drinks, or small decor pieces.

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You don’t need to splurge—a budget-friendly side table from Walmart or Amazon can do the trick, and they’re usually easy to assemble.

I have the exact side table shown above, and it was extremely easy to assemble.

Alternatively, you could also use facebook marketplace to get an affordable side table.

5. Lighting

Lighting is crucial in any living room—because, well, you need to see lol!

Most apartments don’t have enough built-in lighting, so you’ll likely need to add floor or table lamps to brighten your space. 

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I love multi-purpose furniture, so I have the exact bookshelf floor lamp shown above. It provides function and style, which is an absolute win in my book.

Walmart offers affordable options that are still pretty cute. Good lighting can instantly make your living room feel warmer and more inviting.

6. Throw Pillows and Blanket

Your living room is meant for relaxation, so add a few throw pillows and a cozy throw blanket to make your space feel extra comfortable. 

Plus, they’re a great way to introduce pops of color without spending a lot. 

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To purchase the neutral toned throw pillow set shown above, click here.

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To purchase the cozy fleece blanket shown above, click here.

7. Command Hooks and Strips

If you want to hang wall art without damaging your walls, Command Hooks and Strips are a lifesaver. 

They are a renter-friendly solution for displaying your favorite decor. 

8. Storage Cabinet

Apartments can quickly become cluttered, so having a storage cabinet is essential. Use it to store mail, keys, or other miscellaneous items. 

A clean, clutter-free space can instantly brighten your mood. 

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To purchase the fabric storage cabinet shown above, click here.

9. Storage Baskets

Extra storage baskets are a stylish and practical way to keep your living room tidy. They’re perfect for storing throw blankets or extra pillows.

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To purchase the woven baskets shown above, click here.

If you want something multifunctional, consider getting an ottoman with built-in storage. It adds function, style, and comfort all in one.

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To purchase the ottoman shown above, click here.

10. Coasters

If you want your side tables to last, coasters are a simple solution to prevent damage from drinks and hot mugs.

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To purchase the boho coaster set shown above, click here.

11. Decor

Your apartment needs to reflect your personality. Choose decor that genuinely makes you happy—whether it’s fancy wall art or photos with you and your friends. 

Wall prints are a simple and affordable way to liven up your space and make it feel like home.

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To purchase the beige wall art set shown above, click here.

Bedroom Essentials

Your bedroom is more than just a place to sleep—it’s your sanctuary. Below are the bedroom essentials every first-time renter should have to create a comfy and organized space.

12. Bed

A bed is an obvious must-have, but it’s worth investing in one you’ll truly enjoy.

I personally prefer a foam mattress because it molds to your body and offers incredible support. 

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Whether you go for foam or a traditional spring mattress, choose something that helps you get a good night’s sleep.

13. Bed frame

When picking a bed frame, go for one that doesn’t require a box spring. 

This saves you money and makes assembly super easy. 

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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 and extra linens. 

Pro tip: To keep things looking tidy, add a bed skirt to hide the bins.

14. Comforter and Sheet Set

You can find affordable and stylish sheet and comforter sets at Walmart that look great without spending a lot of money. 

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You can find the beige comforter set shown above here.

For my sheet set, I got a great deal at TJ Maxx—under $30, and the quality is amazing!

15. Dresser

A dresser is essential for storing clothes that don’t go in your closet. 

For a budget-friendly option, consider a fabric dresser. It looks just as nice as a wooden one and costs a lot less. 

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These dressers are lightweight, easy to assemble, and surprisingly durable.

16. Hangers

Not all your clothes will fit in a dresser, so you’ll need hangers to keep things organized in your closet. 

They’re inexpensive and make a big difference in keeping your clothes wrinkle-free.

Personally, velvet hangers are my favorite because of their non-slip feature.

17. Under-Bed Storage Bins

Maximize your space by using under-bed storage bins. 

They help keep your room tidy and give you easy access to items you don’t need every day.

18. Nightstand

A nightstand is a small but important piece of furniture. 

If you’re on a budget, a fabric nightstand is an affordable option that still looks great.

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19. Wall Decor

No bedroom feels complete without decor. Wall decor adds a personal touch that makes your bedroom feel like home. 

Desenio is a website that offers beautiful art prints, but if you’re looking for something more budget-friendly, Amazon has great options—you can frame them yourself for a custom look.

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To purchase the wall art set shown above, click here.

20. Lighting

Bedside table lamps are a must for added lighting and ambiance.

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You can find these stylish, budget-friendly table side lamps on Amazon.

21. Blackout Curtains 

Blackout curtains are an absolute necessity for better sleep quality. They’re affordable, easy to install, and offer a simple way to improve your rest.

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To purchase the blackout curtains shown above, click here.

22. Laundry Basket or Hamper

A laundry hamper is another must-have item for your bedroom. It keeps your bedroom organized by keeping dirty clothes out of sight and making laundry day easier. 

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23. Shoe Organizer

I’m all about keeping things clutter-free, and a shoe organizer is an amazing way to keep your bedroom tidy. 

Whether it’s one you put under your bed or near your entryway, it’s an easy way to store your shoes.

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You can find the show cabinet shown above here.

Kitchen Essentials

Having the right kitchen tools on hand helps keep your space easily organized for cooking delicious meals.

24. Dishware set

A basic dinnerware set is essential for any kitchen. Look for a set that includes plates (small and large) and bowls.

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If you’re on a tight budget, check out Walmart or Amazon for affordable, stylish options.

You can find the dish set shown above here.

25. Pots and Pans Set

A good pots and pans set is a must if you plan on cooking regularly. Having a well-rounded set ensures you’re able to tackle any recipe.

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Organizer Tip: Pots and pans can get very cluttered, which can be extremely frustrating. An organizer can save you the headache of digging through a cluttered cabinet. 

26. Cooking Utensils

Basic cooking utensils like spatulas, tongs, and ladles are must-haves for your kitchen.  Invest in a set that’s sturdy and easy to clean. 

Most affordable utensil sets come with all the essentials you’ll need to get started.

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Check out the cooking utensils set shown above here.

27. Trash Can

Please don’t make the same mistake I did and forget a trash can for your new apartment.

A simple trash can with a lid works perfectly to keep things neat and odor-free.

28. Silverware Set and Organizer

A Silverware set is another kitchen essential. And, don’t forget an organizer to keep all your cutlery tidy in your drawer. 

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You’ll thank yourself later when you’re not fishing around for a fork or spoon in a cluttered mess.

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To purchase the silverware organizer shown above, click here.

29. Knife Set

If you love cooking like I do, invest in a good-quality knife set. Look for one that includes a built-in sharpener—it keeps your knives in top shape. 

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To purchase the knife set shown above, click here.

30. Paper Towels

Paper towels are a kitchen staple. Enough said lol.

31. Shelf Risers

Apartment kitchens often lack enough cabinet space. Adding shelf risers can help you maximize your cabinet storage. 

They’re perfect for stacking plates, bowls, or mugs, giving you more room to store your essentials.

32. Oven Mitts

Oven mitts are a must to avoid burns when pulling things out of the oven. 

33. Food Thermometer

If you want to make sure your food is cooked properly and safe to eat, a food thermometer is essential. 

34. Tupperware

You don’t want to forget Tupperware. I made that mistake on my first move-in day, and it was such a pain not having containers to store leftovers. 

Grab a set from Amazon with different sizes so you’re covered for everything from meal prep to leftovers.

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To purchase the plastic food storage container set shown above, click here.

Bathroom Essentials

Stocking up on the right bathroom essentials will not only make your life easier but also keep your space super clean and functional.

35. Towels and Washcloths

You’ll need a good set of towels and washcloths for daily use. You can get a great, affordable bath towel set from Walmart or Amazon.

However, I will suggest that you get extra towels just for convenience. 

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You can check out the 8-piece towel set shown above here.

Side note: Sometimes bath towel sets come with irritatingly small towels, so make sure to look for towels that say “oversized bath towels” or “bath sheets.”

36. Shower Curtain & Liner

A shower curtain and liner are non-negotiable unless you want water all over your bathroom floor. 

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You can find cute, affordable options on Amazon that fit your style without breaking the bank.

The boho style shower curtain shown above is available on Amazon.

Also, DO NOT forget the curtain hooks! Fortunately, many shower curtain liners include curtain hooks but just in case, buy your own.

37. Toilet Brush & Plunger

Let’s be real—you’re going to need a toilet brush and plunger set.

These aren’t the most glamorous items, but they’re bathroom essentials for a reason.

38. Shower Caddy

A shower caddy makes your life SO much easier. Instead of fumbling around for shampoo, conditioner, and soap, you can keep all your go-to products neatly organized in one place. 

It’s especially useful if your apartment shower doesn’t have built-in shelves.

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I got this sleek shower caddy shelf set shown above from Amazon, for under $10.

39. Toothbrush Holder

Instead of leaving your toothbrush lying on your bathroom sink, grab a toothbrush holder to keep things neat and hygienic. 

It’s a small, inexpensive addition that makes a big difference. You can get yours from your local dollar store.

40. Over-the-Door Towel Hooks

Apartments usually lack adequate space to hang towels, so over-the-door towel hooks come in handy. They’re functional without taking up too much space.

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The over-the-door towel rack shown above is on Amazon.

41. Bathroom Trash Can

A bathroom trash can is another essential you don’t want to overlook. 

A compact trash can with a lid is perfect for keeping things pretty tidy.

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You can find the modern trash can shown above on Amazon.

42. Bath Mat

A bath mat is a must to keep your floor dry and prevent slipping. 

Plus, it’s a much more pleasant experience compared to stepping on cold tiles after a shower. 

I suggest getting a complete bath mat set. You can find the bathroom rugs set shown below on Amazon.

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43. First-Aid Kit

I didn’t think about getting a first-aid kit when I first moved in, and it turned out to be a big mistake.

Accidents happen—whether it’s a small cut or a kitchen mishap—so having a basic first-aid kit is ideal.

44. Air Freshener

This one’s pretty self-explanatory, haha. Keeping an air freshener in your bathroom is a simple way to keep it smelling fresh.

 Whether you prefer sprays or plug-ins, it’s a small touch that makes a big difference.

Cleaning and Maintenance Essentials

Keeping your apartment clean and well-maintained is crucial. It makes your space more comfortable and helps you to *hopefully* keep your security deposit. Below you’ll find the cleaning and maintenance essentials every first-time renter should have on hand.

45. Wall Putty or Wood Filler and White Paint (Small Can)

Unexpected accidents happen, especially if you have pets or occasionally pet-sit. 

One time, I was watching a friend’s dog, and after just 20 minutes alone in my bedroom, she had scratched up the bottom of the door. I was panicking, thinking I’d never get my security deposit back. 

But a quick trip to Home Depot for wood filler and white paint saved the day. It surprisingly looked good as new! 

While you don’t need these items immediately, having them on hand can be a lifesaver.

46. Broom, Dustpan & Mop

A clean floor is a must. While I prefer vacuuming over sweeping (it’s faster and less tiring), having a broom and dustpan is still useful for quick cleanups. 

For mopping, I recommend a Swiffer mop. It’s affordable, easy to use, and way less hassle than a traditional mop.

47. Vacuum Cleaner

A vacuum cleaner is a huge necessity in your first apartment. It makes cleaning faster and more efficient, especially if you have carpets or rugs. 

You don’t need to spend a fortune—I found an affordable cordless vacuum on Amazon.

48. All-Purpose Cleaner

A good all-purpose cleaner is essential for wiping down counters, tables, and other surfaces. 

You don’t need a name brand cleaner either—generic ones work just as well and cost less. 

49. Sponges & Scrub Brushes

You’ll need sponges and scrub brushes for dishes and tougher cleaning tasks. 

Grab a multipack so you always have extras on hand when one gets worn out. You can get these from the dollar store or Walmart for a budget-friendly option.

50. Laundry Detergent & Fabric Softener

Laundry essentials are obvious, but it’s worth mentioning. 

Get a laundry detergent that works for your washing machine type (front-load or top-load), and if you like your clothes extra soft and fresh-smelling, add fabric softener to your list.

If you love your clothes to smell extra good, then you can definitely splurge on scent boosters as well!

51. Garbage Bags (Big and Small)

You’ll need garbage bags for both your kitchen and bathroom trash cans. 

In my state, we no longer have plastic grocery bags, but if you’re in a state that still uses them, save money by reusing those for your smaller trash cans.

52. Lint Roller

If you have pets, a lint roller is going to be your best friend. 

It’s perfect for quickly removing pet hair and lint from clothes and furniture.

53. Lightbulbs

When buying lamps for your apartment, don’t forget to grab lightbulbs too. I learned this lesson the hard way on move-in day and had to make a last-minute trip to the store. 

Having a few spares on hand means you won’t be left in the dark… literally lol.

54. Dryer Sheets

Some people don’t think this is necessary but I do. 

Dryer sheets help reduce static and leave your clothes smelling fresh, so they’re a must for my laundry needs. 

55. Disinfectant Wipes

Disinfectant wipes are super convenient for quick cleanups. Save yourself some money by getting the generic version.

56. Batteries

You never know when you’ll need batteries, but trust me, you will. I didn’t realize I needed them until my first night in the apartment—lesson learned! 

Keep a variety of sizes on hand so you’re always prepared.

First Apartment Essentials Checklist FAQs

What are some must-have items that people forget about?

Some must-have apartment essentials that people often forget about include a trash can, a shower curtain liner, lightbulbs, batteries, and a first-aid kit.

These essentials make a big difference in daily life. Having them on hand from day one saves you from last-minute store runs and keeps your apartment functional right away.

Where can I get cheap apartment essentials?

You can get cheap apartment essentials from budget-friendly stores like Walmart, Target, and Amazon. They offer affordable options for most basic necessities.

If you’re on a really tight budget, check out your local dollar store for basics like cleaning supplies, kitchen utensils, laundry essentials, and decor. I have found great decor items from my local dollar store that I was pleasantly surprised by.

What advice do you have for someone moving into their first apartment?

When moving into your first apartment, focus on getting the essential items first—like a bed, basic kitchen supplies, bathroom necessities, and cleaning products.

Don’t stress about having your entire apartment perfectly set up on day one or even in the first week. It can get very expensive very fast when trying to settle into a new place.

You can take your time decorating and adding any other pieces you’d like as you settle in. Most importantly, enjoy the process—it’s your space, so make it your own at your own pace!

This post was all about the ultimate first apartment essentials checklist. 

With these tips and product recommendations, you’ll be extremely prepared before move in day!