The Essential First Apartment Checklist

H1: The Essential First Apartment Checklist

The ink is dry on your diploma, and the graduation confetti has been cleaned up. Next stop: the real world! The novelty of setting up your first place can wear off fast once you find yourself surrounded by a half-assembled bed (at 3am) or trying to open a can without a can opener.  But fear not—with the help of our Taskers, we’ve compiled some new apartment essentials and a moving checklist, which you can see below!

From affordable decor to essentials you’ll want to stock up on before you actually need them, read on for everything you need to know about the transition from dorm to adulthood. Whether it’s new blinds or a chic drain catch for your disposal, you won’t want to forget the things on this list.

First Apartment Essentials

Remembering what necessities you need for your first apartment is stressful, so write them down! When you move in, walk through each room, and note what you need to buy immediately vs. what you’d like to buy eventually. Don’t forget to stock up on staples like toilet paper, paper towels, trash bags, and batteries.

Kitchen Essentials

  • Silverware
  • Toaster
  • Pots and pans
  • Coffee maker
  • Dish soap
  • Cooking utensils
  • Cups and dishware
  • Measuring cups
  • Can opener
  • Drying rack
  • Dish towels and oven mitts
  • Trash can and recycling bin
  • Sponges

 

Bedroom Essentials

  • A comfortable mattress
  • Sheets, pillows, blankets
  • Dresser/or wardrobe with hangers
  • Full-length mirror
  • Hamper
  • Nightstand
  • Alarm clock
  • Light bulbs

 

Bathroom Essentials

  • Toilet plunger and brush
  • Shower curtain and liner
  • Bath mat
  • Hand towels
  • Bath towels
  • Trash can
  • Toilet paper
  • Cleaning supplies (see below)

 

Living Room Essentials

  • Light bulbs
  • Blankets
  • Photos
  • TV and accessories
  • Sound system
  • Books
  • Furniture
  • Rugs

 

Cleaning Supplies

  • Detergent
  • Vacuum
  • Broom and dustpan
  • Rags
  • All-purpose cleaner
  • Sponges
  • Mop or Swiffer
  • Disinfecting spray
  • Glass cleaner
  • Duster
  • Paper towels

 

Tool Kit Essentials

  • Flashlight
  • Screwdrivers
  • Alan key
  • Sewing kit
  • Extension cord
  • Batteries
  • Step stool/ladder
  • Hammer
  • Nails
  • Screws
  • Duct tape

 

First-Aid Kit Essentials

  • Bandages
  • Cloth tape
  • Antibiotic ointment
  • Antiseptic wipes
  • Aspirin
  • Cold compress
  • Emergency blanket
  • Gauze
  • Non-latex gloves
  • Oral thermometer
  • Tweezers

 

Don’t Hesitate To Buy It Used

Rein in the temptation to let your imagination run wild on Pinterest—there’s no need to buy brand new for everything. Let friends and family know you’re willing to take any unwanted home items off their hands, or get ready to dig into Craigslist listings and yard sales. “Thrift shops are amazing and usually support a good cause!” suggests Austin Tasker Zachary K.

Take Your Time, Find Your Style

A house doesn’t become a home overnight. Creating a space that reflects your personality takes time and budget, so space out projects as you settle in. Start with low-effort, cost-effective (and lease-friendly!) ways to create a cozy atmosphere, like plants, throw pillows, candles, area rugs, and colorful bedding. A gallery wall of personal photos is another inexpensive way to add a personal touch to a room. There’s also tons you can do with TV mounting, window dressing, and more!

We hope our first apartment checklist and tips help make your new home feel like home. Here’s to your first steps into the real world being deliberate, graceful, and confident!

Adulthood can be daunting, but with the right help, it doesn’t have to be. Keep our checklist handy as you set up your first apartment, and book a Tasker for help with moving, furniture assembly, mounting, and more.

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