Moving into a new apartment is gratifying, but nothing is worse than trying to find something you don’t have. There are minimal things needed on move-in day. This list will help you focus on what is necessary to stay within your budget. You may be tempted to tackle the to-do list head-on, but slowing down will work wonders.
What Do I Need the First Day in My Apartment?
Drinking-Water, Paper Products, Trash Bags, Tools, & Safety
It is imperative to have toilet paper, trash bags, bottled water, paper towels, and tissues on the first day. Research the cheapest grocery store. Otherwise, the closest dollar store should stock most of these items. The tap water may or may not be potable, always have a case of bottled water or a gallon. Consider purchasing a Brita tap or pitcher filter for the long haul.
First aid equipment, a fire extinguisher, batteries, extension cables, and surge-protected power strips will help you stay safe while organizing and make it possible to charge electronics. The landlord may have smoke detectors, but you will have to have the batteries. Ensure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors have working batteries and function correctly.
What Cleaning Materials Should I Have?
Broom, Cleaners, & Gloves
You are bound to make a mess while moving. Arrive at the new apartment with what you will need:
- Broom and dustpan
- Sponges
- Soft rags
- Multi-surface cleaner
- Toilet cleaner
- Toilet brush
- Hand soap
- Dish soap
- Laundry detergent
- Gloves
Purchase multi-surface cleaner, so you don’t have to buy several cleaning agents.
What Will My Bathroom Need?
Shower Curtain, Shower Rings, Plunger, & Trash Can
Towels for bathing and washing hands, toothbrush and toothpaste, hand and body soap, shampoo, and conditioner shouldn’t have to be mentioned; however, these are not the forgotten necessities. You will need a toilet plunger, trash can and bags, shower curtain, and shower curtain rings. First-time tenants usually aren’t aware a shower curtain and rings are not a given; the tenant must buy them. Find a cheap shower curtain and rings at a dollar store. When your money is up, you can buy one you like.
What Should I Bring for my Bedroom?
Mattress, Sheets, Drapes, Trash
All you really need is a mattress, fitted sheet, sheets, comforter or blankets, pillow and pillowcases, and, if possible, a dresser for clothes. As long as you aren’t sleeping directly on a hard floor, you’ll be fine. If you have an expansive bedroom closet, hang your clothes there and save space by skipping a dresser. A hamper that functions as a laundry basket is a big-brain move. A hamper that functions as a basket will only keep cash in your pocket. An east-facing window will illuminate the room in the morning. If you like to sleep in, purchase curtains. A bedroom trash can and liner will only make life more convenient. With your bedroom arranged, perhaps hang a mirror on the wall or over the door. A nightstand is perfect for a low-light lamp and alarm clock.
What is My Kitchen Missing?
Utensils, Furniture, & Food Storage
Purchasing kitchen items second-hand is one of the best ways to stay within a budget. You can almost always find plates, utensils, bowls, glasses, mugs, knives, pots, pans, cutting boards, and microwaves at a thrift store, from relatives or friends, or Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace for the low. Cleaning sponges, dish soap, and dish towels, however, would be best to buy new. Start furnishing your kitchen with two chairs and a small table. Once you have an idea for the kitchen, you can buy more appealing kitchen furniture. Additionally, grocery stores occasionally sell food in plasticware that can be repurposed as food storage.
How Do I Furnish a Living Room?
Start Small
Buying everything at once will check the box, but it’s not the best idea for your bank account. Give yourself time to brainstorm a few designs and layouts before you buy the first pieces you see. Consider purchasing a calming lamp and bright light bulbs for a variety of light options. Soften hard floors with a large rug to make the space snugger. Use a tape measure and write down the dimensions of the door frames and living room. You don’t want to buy a couch or chair that won’t fit through the door or in the space. Start with small, second-hand furniture. If the price is right, you can leave it when you move out. If the furniture is elegant, the next tenant will appreciate it.
What Can I Wait to Purchase?
Decorations, Luxuries, & Electronics
Everyone wants a large, cozy couch to sit back and watch TV at night, but the truth is, you don’t need it. With the streaming services today, you can watch almost everything on your TV on a laptop in your bed. Hold off on purchasing coffee and end tables, a TV, and the “wants” for your apartment. Art and decorations are personal expressions; they don’t have to be decided and hung up overnight. Give yourself plenty of time to decide on the arrangement of your apartment; you’ll end up cherishing it more when you’re patient.
The best way to stay on budget is to buy used items. Purchase what you need and give yourself time to decide on what you want. An empty apartment is a clean apartment. Furnish an apartment slowly to keep cleaning easier before bringing in the pieces that will make it your home, all while staying on budget.
