First Apartment Must Haves – Essentials That Saved My Life!

Okay, so moving into your first place is kinda a big deal. And it is a process that can be so stressful, not gonna lie.

A couple of years ago when I was first moving into my apartment, I remember feeling totally on top of things until reality hit like a ton of bricks. I mean, who knew there were so many random things you actually need for a functioning apartment? I was in way over my head and ended up being so overwhelmed.

The process would have been so much easier if I had done even just a little bit of research instead of completely winging it. Moving, especially for the first time can be so chaotic, you find yourself needing this or that, or needing to swap out something for something else because you just didn’t like the look of it in your apartment. And let’s not even talk about the million and one trips you have to keep making to the hardware store or the furniture store because you forgot something. But to be honest that last one may be because my first apartment was an absolute dumpster fire that needed a lot of help.

Which brings me this post… Are you currently excited by the prospect of moving into a new place and are in need of a few ideas for must have essentials that will make the process a little smoother? Then here are some first apartment must haves that absolutely saved my life or that I wish I had on hand when going through the process myself…

1. Mattress Cover

Nothing gives me more anxiety than staining a brand and new white mattress and please tell me I am not the only one with this fear?! Which is why a mattress cover is essential! Not only does it protect your mattress but it adds extra layers that make your bed feel cozier somehow.

2. Stepping Stool

You’d be surprised how many times I found myself needing and using a stepping stool when moving into my first apartment. There are so many things you find yourself needing to reach, or climb or install and a stepping stool comes so handy for those moments. It’s also something that is just nice to have around for those moments you need to clean the top of the fridge or change a light bulb or one of the million other things you’ll have to do when you own an apartment.

3. Drill Set

One of the things that had are so frustrated in those first days of living by myself was the fact that I did not have a drill on hand. when you move into a place for the first time, a drill is such a handy tool to have because you’ll find yourself needing to secure a few things and a drill is the only way to do that. Like when you gotta hang up curtains or mount a tv or hang up some shelves. Trust me there is always something you’ll find yourself wanting to secure in a new apartment, so a drill is a must have. And one thing I learnt as a girly living by herself for the first time? You have nothing to fear from the tool, it’s actually quite easy to use!

4. Hangers

Hangers are actually one of those things you never actually think about getting because they are always on hand when you have them. But they are a home essential and something to grab as you move into your new apartment. You can never have too many hangers in my opinion. Aside from being able to hang and organize your clothes, they are also a great way to add a little bit of style to your closet space. Use hangers that match the aesthetic of your room to tie your decor together an a cool way. It’s the little things that do it

5. Tool Kit

Maybe it’s my fault for moving into an apartment that can only be described as habitable or a good, but I found having a tool kit around to a lifesaver in my apartment. Whether it was replacing horrible showerheads or fixing leaky pipes, all I can say is that I’ve definitely made the most of my tool kit.

6. Sticky Hooks

These little guys quickly became something I leapt stocking up just because of how handy they are and how quickly I went through packs of them when I had first moved into my first apartment. You’ll find these sticky hooks hold up really well and are a great way to hang up kitchen towels, bags, cleaning supplies, tools whatever they can hold honesty.

7. Duvet and Duvet Cover

A great duvet is honestly a must have. Especially one that is cozy and light-weight. And sometimes depending on whatever aesthetic you’re going for, you might prefer to get a duvet cover if the duvet you have on hand doesn’t fit the aesthetic. Also a good duvet cover is an amazing way to protect your duvet and also switch up a plain and boring one.

8. Throw Blankets

When you move into your first apartment, you obviously want to make the most out of every space, meaning a lot of time will be spent on the couch in the living room. Throw blankets are essential if you want to feel cozy and warm. AND they’re just such aesthetically pleasing items to have around.

9. Floor Spray Mop

These are so perfect for light cleans around the apartment when you’ve too lazy to deep clean, or you just want a quick and easy cleaning session that doesn’t require too much hassle.

10. House Slippers

I don’t know about you but there is something uncomfortable about bare feet touching the floor for me. Which is Why house slippers are somewhat of a must have. They have to be fuzzy (it’s a requirement!) and comfortable and also a little bit stylish.

11. Adhesive Shower Caddy

I’m sure we’ve all seen the viral shower caddies that you can stick to you shower wall with the adhesive backs. The a adhesive is pretty strong that you won’t drive to worry about most shower products causing it to fall. These are such a great way to keep your shower organized in the apartment you moved into doesn’t already have a caddy installed.

12. Measuring Cups

Weirdly enough, what I probable ended up wanting to use the most in the kitchen was a measuring cup set. Which is crazy because I’m not really a baker but you’d be surprised (at least I was) at how many recipes actually required those type of precise measurements. It sounds so funny and obvious how because of course, but hey.

12. Silverware Set

Aside from your actual dinner plates, cutlery is probably what you want to stock on first for your kitchen. whether you’re ordering takeout or cooking in, those are obviously essential.

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Want more apartment content? Check out this post that will show you some helpful ways to decorate a small apartment.