An actual list for your move-in day with a first apartment checklist is included below.

first apartment checklist

I remember when I first moved into my first apartment, I searched the internet for the perfect guide for stuff that I needed for my apartment.

In the end, I just waited till I moved in and bought everything later. I HIGHLY do not recommend this!

This post will go over exactly what you need to be bringing!

 

First Apartment Checklist For Your Kitchen


1. Pots + Pans.

I LOVE pots and pan sets. It is much cheaper to buy a set than each individual item. This pot and pans set is Amazon’s number 1 seller with over 45,000 reviews. It comes with 16 items and is perfect for your first apartment!

Find on Amazon

2. Silverware Set.

For some reason, I thought silverware just came with the apartment (stupid IK). I bought this silverware set below and it was perfect!

Find on Amazon

3. Cooking Utensils.

Just like how you need silverware, you also need your whisks and knife. This set comes in multiple colors so if you want to keep up with a theme, you can!

Find on Amazon

4. Aluminum Foil + Wax Paper.

You will need aluminum foil and wax paper. These are two items I kept constantly forgetting to buy for my apartment so don’t forget!

5. Measuring Cup.

This is not really an “essential” but you will forget to buy them until you need them.

I found this 11-piece set on Amazon for only $22.

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6. Trash Can.

When you are looking at trash cans, get one with a lid!

I found this stainless steel one that reduces the smell and comes in many sizes and shapes.

Find on Amazon

7. Dish Soap + Sponge.

My favorite soap and sponge duo set is Dawn and Scrub Daddy.

The scrub daddy sponge is perfect for literally any utensil you need to clean. The sprayer on the Dawn soap is great for soaking your dishes and plates without having to even touch them.

Find on Amazon

First Apartment Checklist For Your Bedroom


1. Mattress.

I was not ready to drop $1000s on a mattress so I just found mine on Amazon for a lotttt less. You can find the mattress I used below and then the mattress topper here.

Find on Amazon

2. Pillows.

Get pillows!

I recommend going to Target or Home Goods to find good pillows so you can test them out and finds the ones you are looking for.

3. Comforter + Sheets.

(Update) This comforter and sheets set are on such a good sale right now (55% off)!

Who doesn’t love a nice comfortable bed? I know I do and even better – this comes in 6 different colors! No surprise that this is Amazon’s Choice.

Find on Amazon

4. Laundry Basket.

To be completely transparent, I hate spending lots of money on things like laundry baskets and hangers so I found this one for pretty cheap. However, if you want a more expensive one, this link will take you straight to Amazon’s Laundry Baskets.

Find on Amazon

5. Hangers.

If you already have hangers, skip right to the next one.

However, if you are looking for some good durable hangers check these. I have them and they are perfect.

RelatedThe Best Apartment Organization Hacks You Want To See.

6. Nightstand.

This set of 2 nightstands is perfect for that classy but useful look. Did I also mention that they are under $200? Steal I know!

Find on Amazon

7. Bedpost.

I didn’t want to spend thousands on a bed frame so I found a cheap one on Amazon.

The one listed below is about $200 with over 800 5-star reviews!

Find on Amazon

First Apartment Checklist For Your Bathroom


1. Towels.

dorm room essentials

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If you can steal Towels from your parents – do it. Towels are literally so expensive when I didn’t think they were. I brought 3 towels but I would recommend 4 or 5.

2. Bath mat.

This bath mat I found is nonslip but also super thin. Making it perfect if you have a small bathroom or the dorm will rub against a larger rug.

Comes in 3 colors and 5 different sizes.

RelatedThe Best Apartment Organization Hacks You Want To See.

Find on Amazon

3. Toilet Paper.

I would pack at least 1 roll if you are planning on spending the whole day unpacking!

4. Shower Curtain.

Shower curtains is another one of those items I do not like to spend more than I have to.

The one I found on Amazon is less than $20 and comes in 10 different colors.

Find on Amazon

5. Toilet Brush.

I found these two-pack Toilet brushes that come in 5 different colors, all under $20. I prefer to have my toilet essentials hidden so this one comes with a cover.

First Apartment Checklist For Cleaning Supplies


1. Trash Bags.

If you are buying the trash bags listed above, the trash bags are attached here.

2. Broom & Dustpan.

This grey broom and dustpan set is perfect for cleaning up after spills or collecting dust! Make sure you don’t forget to bring this to your apartment.

Find on Amazon

3. Mop.

One thing I hate about mops is the ones that you have to wring out and then use again.

To me, it just spreads germs and is pointless. For the one listed below, you can just throw it in the washer and reuse it.

Find on Amazon

4. Vacuum.

I recommend this vacuum cleaner for first-time renters because it comes with different parts that work with all different type of surfaces and needs.

Find on Amazon

5. Cleaning Sprays.

The right cleaning sprays depend entirely on the type of apartment you have and certain floors. I recommend just going to Target after going through your apartment and deciding what you need.

 

Other First Apartment Essentials


1. Can Opener.

2. Cutting Board.

3. First Aid Kit 

4. Paper Towels

5. Lysol

6. Cups + Plates