Looking for a complete shopping list for your first apartment? Check out our post for a checklist, financial tips, and recommendations for couples, guys, women, and college students.

Hey there new apartment dweller, ready to fill your space with all sorts of cool stuff? f course you are! But where do you start? Don’t worry, we’ve got your back. In this shopping guide, we’ll give you all the tips and tricks for filling up your humble abode with furniture, appliances, and decor that will make you feel right at home. Whether you’re a college student on a budget or a couple looking for the perfect starter space, we’ve got you covered. So grab your shopping cart and let’s get started!

Budgeting for Your First Apartment: What You Need to Know

One of the most important things to consider when moving into your first apartment is budgeting. It can be tempting to want to buy everything right away, but that’s not always realistic. Here are a few tips for financially preparing for your first apartment:

Make a list of all your necessary expenses, including rent, utilities, and groceries.
Set a monthly budget and stick to it.
Consider shopping at thrift stores or online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist for furniture and decor.
Don’t forget to factor in one-time costs like security deposits and moving expenses.

Remember, it’s better to take things slow and make smart financial decisions than to go broke trying to fill your new space with stuff.

The Essential Furniture: Bed, Couch, and More

When it comes to furnishing your new apartment, there are a few key pieces you’ll need:

A bed: This is probably the most important piece of furniture in your apartment. Consider investing in a good mattress and bed frame.
A couch or seating area: Whether you’re entertaining guests or just relaxing after a long day, a comfortable couch is essential.
A dining table: This doesn’t have to be anything fancy, but having a designated place to eat will make your space feel more homey.
A dresser or closet storage: You’ll need a place to store all your clothes, so make sure you have enough storage space.

Of course, there are plenty of other pieces of furniture you might want, like a TV stand or bookshelves. But starting with these basics will give you a solid foundation for your new home.

Kitchen Must-Haves: Appliances and Cookware

Your first kitchen can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. Here are the essential kitchen items you’ll need:

Basic kitchen appliances: You’ll need a fridge, stove/oven, and microwave at the very minimum. If you have extra space and budget, consider adding a dishwasher or other appliances like a blender or food processor.
Cookware essentials: Invest in a good set of pots and pans, including a frying pan, saucepan, and Dutch oven. Also consider getting a baking sheet and muffin tin.
Plate, cup, and bowl necessities: Start with a set of dishes that includes plates, bowls, and cups for at least four people.
Essential utensils: Get a set of utensils that includes a spatula, ladle, slotted spoon, and tongs. Don’t forget measuring cups and spoons!
Required gadgets: Consider getting a can opener, vegetable peeler, and colander. A good set of knives is also a must-have.

With these items in your arsenal, you’ll be whipping up meals in no time.

Bathroom Basics: Towels, Shower Curtains, and More

Don’t forget about stocking your bathroom! Here are the essentials:

Towels: Get a set of bath towels and hand towels in coordinating colors.
Shower curtain and liner: Keep your bathroom floor dry with a good shower curtain and liner.
Toilet brush and plunger: These may not be the most glamorous items, but they’re definitely necessary.
Soap dispenser and toothbrush holder: Keep your sink area clean and organized with these items.

Depending on your space and needs, there may be other bathroom items you want to consider. But starting with these basics will get you on the right track.

Cleaning Supplies: Keep Your New Place Spotless

No one likes cleaning, but it’s a necessary evil. Here are some cleaning supplies you’ll need in your new apartment:

All-purpose cleaner: This will be your go-to for most surfaces in your home.
Glass cleaner: Keep your windows and mirrors sparkling clean with a good glass cleaner.
Broom and dustpan: Sweep up dirt and dust with ease.
Vacuum: If you have carpet, a good vacuum is essential. Consider investing in a handheld vacuum for smaller messes.
Sponges and dish soap: You’ll need some way to wash your dishes!

Keeping your new place clean may seem daunting, but with these supplies, you’ll be able to tackle any mess.

Decor and Accessories: Adding Personality to Your Space

Your new apartment should reflect your personality and style. Here are some decor items to consider:

Rugs: Add some color and texture to your floors with a few well-placed rugs.
Throw pillows and blankets: Make your couch or bed extra cozy with soft pillows and blankets.
Artwork: Add some personality to your walls with artwork that speaks to you.
Plants: Bring some greenery into your space with low-maintenance plants like succulents or snake plants.

Remember, you don’t have to break the bank to make your apartment feel like home. Shop at thrift stores or online marketplaces for affordable decor options.

Tech and Entertainment: Make Your Apartment Feel Like Home

Here are some tech and entertainment items to consider when furnishing your new apartment:

TV: Whether you’re a Netflix binger or a cable watcher, a good TV is essential.
Speakers: Listen to music or podcasts with high-quality speakers.
Wi-Fi router: Make sure you have reliable internet access in your new home.
Board games or card games: Entertain guests or have a game night with some classic board games or card games.

Of course, these items are just suggestions – choose what works best for your lifestyle and budget.

Moving Day Essentials: What to Pack First

On moving day, it’s important to have some essentials packed and easily accessible. Here are some items to consider:

Clothes for a few days: Make sure you have enough clothes on hand to get you through the first few days in your new home.
Toiletries: Pack a bag with your toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, and any other toiletries you’ll need in the first few days.
Cleaning supplies: You’ll want to do some cleaning before you start unpacking, so make sure you have some essential cleaning supplies on hand.
Bath towels and toilet paper: Make sure you have some basic bathroom essentials readily available.

Checklist for Couples: Furnishing Your Space Together

If you’re moving in with a significant other, here are some things to keep in mind:

Discuss your budget and make a plan for dividing expenses.
Consider each other’s style and preferences when choosing decor and furniture.
Give each other space – make sure both of you have areas in the apartment that are purely your own.

Checklist for College Students: Making the Most of Small Spaces

If you’re a college student moving into a small dorm or apartment, here are some tips:

Maximize storage space with under-bed storage or over-the-door organizers.
Choose multi-functional furniture, like a futon that doubles as a bed and couch.
Use wall space for decor and storage with shelves and hanging organizers.

There you have it – everything you need to know to furnish your first apartment. Happy shopping!