I’ve recently moved into a “fixer upper” type apartment near campus, which has been both exciting and stressful. Renovations have been under way since July and everything is finally coming together (slow but steady wins the race right?). My family and I have been purchasing bits and pieces from furniture sites, consignment stores and other affordable retailers in order to update the 80s-made space. Whilst searching for new apartment must-haves, I was unable to find a solid checklist of items that any fresh living space should contain. Of course everyone knows to purchase pots, pans and mattresses, but what about a can opener, colander and command strips? I’ve compiled a list of essential home wear, tools and decor that new “homeowners” might forget about and will probably need sometime throughout the year.
For the bedroom:
- Bed frame and mattress
- Desk and chair
- Storage pieces (i.e.: dresser, baskets, plastic containers)
- Bulletin board
- Planner or calendar
- Photo frames
- Bedding
- Printer
For the bathroom:
- Decorative plants
- Over-the-toilet storage
- Towels
- First aid kit
- Febreeze (no explanation necessary)
- Kaboom cleaner
- Shower curtains
- Extra soaps
- Toilet brush and cleaner
- Kleenex
For the kitchen:
- Pots and pans
- Dishes
- Silverwear
- Colander
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle, spatula, slotted spoon, tongs, whisk, peeler
- Pyrex glass dishes (for lunch and storage)
- Chopsticks
- Oil bottle
- Glass cups
- Paper towels
- Ziplock bags
- Foil
- Clingwrap
- Dish soap and sponge
- Knives
- Toaster oven
- Rice cooker
- Can opener
- Water purifier
- Dining table and chairs
For the living room:
- Couch
- Decorative pillows
- Wall art
- Large rug
- Coffee table + books for table
- Decorative plant
- Couch throw blanket
- Television and tv stand
For miscellaneous needs:
- Swiffer mop
- Broom and dustpan
- Washer and dryer
- Laundry detergent
- Clorox cleaner
- Swiffer pads
- Plunger
- Trash can and trash bags
- Shelf liners
- Scissors
- Tool kit + flashlight + batteries
- Command strips
- Light bulbs
