First Apartment Checklist for 2025

Moving into your first apartment is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel overwhelming.

There are so many things to remember and it’s easy to overlook the essentials.

In this checklist I’ll help ensure you have everything you need, from kitchen supplies to bathroom necessities.

Let’s deep dive!

Bedroom Essentials Checklist

1. Bed Frame and Mattress

The bed frame supports your mattress and adds style to your room. You should choose one that fits your mattress size and complements your decor.

A good mattress is essential for a good night’s sleep, providing the necessary support and comfort. 

When shopping for a mattress, consider factors like firmness, material, and your sleeping position.

2. Bedding

Bedding includes all the linens you need for your bed: sheets, pillowcases, a duvet or comforter, and extra blankets.

Having at least two sets of sheets is practical for rotation and cleanliness.

Sheets come in various materials like cotton, linen, and microfiber, each offering different levels of comfort and durability. 

Pillowcases protect your pillows and provide a soft surface for your head.

A duvet or comforter adds warmth, while extra blankets are handy for colder nights or guests.

3. Pillows

The right pillow should align with your sleeping position, whether you’re a back, side, or stomach sleeper. 

Materials like memory foam, down, and polyester each offer different levels of support and softness. 

It’s advisable to have at least two pillows per person: one for sleeping and another for added comfort or support while reading or relaxing in bed.

4. Nightstand

A nightstand is a small table placed next to your bed, providing a spot for essential items you need within arm’s reach.

It’s ideal for holding a lamp, alarm clock, phone, books, or a glass of water.

Many nightstands come with drawers or shelves, offering additional storage for items like chargers, reading glasses, or personal items.

Having a nightstand keeps your bedside area organized and ensures you have easy access to important items.

5. Lamp

A bedside lamp is essential for providing soft, ambient light that’s perfect for reading or relaxing before sleep. It eliminates the need to get out of bed to turn off the main light, adding convenience. 

Lamps come in various styles and sizes, so choose one that fits your nightstand and matches your bedroom decor. 

Adjustable lamps are particularly useful as they allow you to direct light where you need it most.

6. Clothes Hangers

Clothes hangers are necessary for keeping your wardrobe organized and your clothes wrinkle-free. 

They come in different materials such as plastic, wood, and metal, each suitable for various types of clothing. 

Having enough hangers ensures that all your garments, from shirts and dresses to pants and jackets, have a place to hang properly.

7. Laundry Hamper

A laundry hamper is a must-have for collecting dirty clothes and keeping them off the floor.

It helps keep your bedroom tidy and makes it easier to transport laundry to the washing machine.

Hampers come in various sizes and styles, including collapsible ones for easy storage.

Some have compartments for sorting laundry by color or type.

8. Dresser or Wardrobe

A dresser or wardrobe provides essential storage space for clothes, especially if your apartment lacks a built-in closet. 

Dressers come with multiple drawers for organizing items like underwear, socks, and folded clothes. 

Wardrobes offer hanging space as well as shelves and drawers for various clothing items.

You should consider the size of your bedroom and your storage needs.

9. Curtains or Blinds

Curtains or blinds block out light for better sleep and provide insulation against outside temperatures. 

Curtains come in various fabrics, colors, and patterns, allowing you to customize your room’s look. 

Blinds offer a sleek, modern alternative and can be adjusted to control the amount of light entering the room. 

10. Mirror

A full-length mirror is a practical addition to your bedroom, allowing you to check your appearance from head to toe.

It helps you get ready efficiently and can make your room appear larger by reflecting light. 

Mirrors come in various styles, from simple and functional to decorative and ornate.

Place your mirror in a spot with good lighting for the best visibility.

11. Hooks and Storage Bins

Hooks can be mounted on walls or doors to hang items like bags, hats, or robes.

Storage bins help organize smaller items, such as accessories, shoes, or seasonal clothing, keeping them neatly tucked away.

They come in various sizes and materials to fit different spaces and needs.

Using hooks and storage bins maximizes your space and helps maintain a tidy, clutter-free environment in your bedroom.

Kitchen Must-Have Checklist

1. Cookware

You’ll need a variety of pots and pans to cover all your cooking needs.

Medium and large pots are essential for boiling pasta, making soups, and cooking grains.

Small and large skillets are great for frying, sautéing, and searing. 

A baking sheet is a must for roasting vegetables, baking cookies, and making sheet pan dinners.

Invest in non-stick or stainless steel options for durability and ease of cleaning.

2. Knives and Cutting Board

You’ll need at least a chef’s knife, a paring knife, and a bread knife. These will cover most of your cutting needs, from chopping vegetables to slicing bread. 

Pair your knives with a sturdy cutting board to protect your countertops and keep your knives sharp. Wooden or plastic cutting boards are easy to clean and maintain.

3. Utensils

Basic utensils like spatulas, ladles, whisks, measuring cups, and spoons are essential for cooking and baking. 

Spatulas are perfect for flipping pancakes or stirring sauces, while ladles help serve soups and stews. 

Whisks are necessary for mixing batters and whipping cream. Measuring cups and spoons ensure accuracy in your recipes, helping you achieve the best results.

4. Dishes and Glasses

Stock your kitchen with enough plates, bowls, glasses, and mugs for at least four people.

This ensures you’re ready for guests and reduces the frequency of washing dishes. Opt for durable, everyday-use sets that are microwave and dishwasher safe.

Having a consistent set of dishes and glasses makes your table settings look cohesive and organized. 

5. Basic Appliances

Small appliances like a toaster, blender, and microwave can make daily cooking easier and more convenient. 

A toaster quickly prepares breakfast items like toast and bagels. A blender is versatile, useful for making smoothies, soups, and sauces. 

A microwave is great for reheating leftovers, cooking quick meals, and defrosting frozen foods. 

6. Storage Containers

Having a variety of storage containers is crucial for keeping leftovers, meal prepping, and organizing your pantry.

Look for containers in different sizes with airtight seals to keep food fresh. 

Glass or BPA-free plastic containers are ideal as they are microwave and dishwasher safe.

These containers help you store and reheat food safely, reduce waste, and keep your kitchen organized. 

7. Cleaning Supplies

Stock up on dish soap, sponges, and a drying rack to handle daily dishwashing. Dish soap cuts through grease and leaves your dishes spotless.

Sponges are versatile for scrubbing pots, pans, and surfaces. A drying rack helps dishes air dry, reducing the chance of bacteria growth.

Bathroom Essentials Checklist

1. Towels

You’ll need a set of bath towels, hand towels, and washcloths to keep your bathroom functional and comfortable.

Bath towels are essential for drying off after a shower or bath. 

Hand towels are perfect for drying your hands after washing them, and washcloths are useful for washing your face or body.

2. Shower Curtain and Liner

A shower curtain and liner are crucial to prevent water from spilling out of the shower or tub, which helps keep the bathroom floor dry and safe.

The liner, typically made of plastic or waterproof fabric, goes inside the tub to contain the water. 

The outer curtain adds a decorative touch and provides additional privacy. Choose a mildew-resistant liner to avoid mold buildup.

3. Bath Mat

A bath mat is placed outside the shower or tub to absorb water when you step out, preventing slips and keeping the floor dry.

It provides a soft, warm surface for your feet, adding to your comfort. Choose a mat with a non-slip backing to ensure it stays in place.

Regularly washing and drying your bath mat will keep it clean and free from mold and mildew. 

4. Toiletries 

Stock your bathroom with essential toiletries such as soap, shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush, toothpaste, and other personal care items you use daily. 

Soap is necessary for handwashing and bathing. Shampoo and conditioner keep your hair clean and manageable. 

A toothbrush and toothpaste are vital for oral hygiene. Moreover items might include face wash, moisturizer, and shaving supplies, depending on your routine. 

5. First Aid Kit

A basic first aid kit should include bandages, antiseptic wipes or ointment, gauze pads, adhesive tape, scissors, tweezers, and pain relievers.

This kit is essential for handling minor injuries such as cuts, scrapes, and burns. 

Keeping the first aid kit in an accessible location, like under the sink or in a cabinet, ensures you can quickly attend to injuries.

6. Plunger and Toilet Brush 

A plunger and toilet brush are essential for bathroom maintenance. The plunger is used to clear blockages in the toilet, ensuring it functions properly. 

You should choose a durable plunger with a strong suction cup. The toilet brush helps keep the toilet bowl clean and sanitary.

It’s best to store these tools in a discreet corner or under the sink to keep them accessible but out of sight.

7. Small Trash Bin

A small trash bin is necessary for disposing of bathroom waste like tissues, cotton swabs, and empty toiletries. 

You should choose a bin with a lid to keep odors contained and maintain a neat appearance. Empty the trash regularly to prevent overflow and odors.

Placing a small trash bin in an easily accessible spot, such as next to the toilet or sink, ensures it’s convenient to use.

Living Room Essentials Checklist

1. Couch or Sofa

A couch or sofa is the main piece of furniture where you and your guests will relax, watch TV, or enjoy a conversation. 

Choose a couch that fits well within your space and suits your style. Whether you prefer a sleek modern design or a cozy, plush one. 

Adding throw pillows and blankets can enhance comfort and aesthetics, making your living room inviting and functional.

2. Coffee Table

A coffee table serves as the central spot in your living room to place drinks, remotes, magazines, and decor. 

It’s both a functional and decorative piece that ties the room together. Opt for a coffee table that complements your sofa and other furniture.

Consider its height in relation to your seating for ease of use. Some coffee tables come with storage options like drawers or shelves.

3. TV and Stand

You should choose a TV that fits your viewing preferences and room size.

The stand should be sturdy and have enough space for your TV and other devices like gaming consoles or streaming boxes.

You should look for stands with additional storage to keep cables, DVDs, and other items neatly organized. 

4. Bookshelves or Storage Units

Bookshelves or storage units provide a place to display books, photos, and decorative items while keeping clutter at bay. 

Choose shelves that fit your room size and complement your other furniture.

Adjustable shelves can be useful for accommodating items of different heights.

If you have a lot of things to store, consider a unit with closed cabinets or drawers to hide the mess. 

5. Rug

A rug adds warmth and defines the area in your living room. It can tie together all your furniture and create a cozy atmosphere.

Choose a rug that is the right size for your space; it should be large enough to fit under your main furniture pieces but not overwhelm the room.

A rug can also add color, pattern, and texture to your living room, enhancing the overall design.

6. Curtains

Curtains are important for privacy and light control in your living room. They also add a decorative element to the space.

Choose curtains that match your room’s decor and are the right length for your windows. Heavier fabrics can block out more light and provide insulation.

You should consider the hardware, like rods and rings, which should also complement your room’s style. 

7. Lighting

In addition to your main ceiling light, add lamps or floor lamps to create softer, more focused lighting. 

Task lighting is useful for reading or working, while accent lighting can highlight artwork or architectural features.

Choose lighting that complements your room’s style and provides the right amount of illumination. 

8. Decorative Items

Decorative items such as throw pillows, blankets, wall art, and plants can make your living room feel more inviting and personalized.

Throw pillows and blankets add comfort and can introduce colors and patterns to the room.

Wall art, whether it’s paintings, photos, or posters, helps to make the space unique. 

Plants bring life and freshness to your living room, improving air quality and adding a natural element. 

Cleaning Supplies Checklist

1. Vacuum

A vacuum cleaner is essential for keeping carpets and floors clean. It helps remove dirt, dust, and debris that accumulate daily.

When choosing a vacuum, consider the type of flooring in your apartment. 

For carpets, a vacuum with strong suction and a rotating brush is ideal. For hard floors, a model with a setting for bare floors is better to avoid scratching. 

2. Mop and Broom

A mop and broom are necessary for cleaning hard surfaces like tile, wood, and laminate.

A broom helps sweep away dust and dirt, while a mop tackles spills and stains. 

Choose a mop that suits your flooring – some are better for wet mopping, while others are designed for dry mopping.

3. All-Purpose Cleaner

An all-purpose cleaner is a versatile cleaning solution for various surfaces in your home, including countertops, sinks, and appliances.

It’s designed to cut through grease, grime, and dirt effectively. 

You should look for a cleaner that is safe for the surfaces in your apartment—some are specifically formulated for kitchens or bathrooms. 

4. Sponges and Scrubbers

Sponges and scrubbers are indispensable for washing dishes and tackling tough spots.

Sponges are soft and absorbent, perfect for general cleaning and wiping down surfaces. 

Scrubbers, on the other hand, have a rough texture that is great for removing stubborn food residue and grime.

You should keep a variety of sponges and scrubbers on hand to handle different cleaning tasks. 

5. Laundry Detergent

Laundry detergent comes in various forms, including liquid, powder, and pods, each suitable for different washing machines and preferences.

Choose a detergent that is effective at removing stains, yet gentle on fabrics.

Some detergents are formulated for sensitive skin or specific fabric types, like delicates or sportswear.

6. Trash Bags and Bins

You should select durable trash bags that fit your bins to avoid spills and messes.

It’s useful to have a bin in each room – especially the kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom – for convenient waste disposal. 

For recycling, you should consider separate bins to sort materials easily and promote environmentally friendly habits.

Miscellaneous Essentials Checklist

1. Toolkit

It should include basic tools like screwdrivers, a hammer, nails, and a tape measure.

These tools come in handy for assembling furniture, hanging pictures, and making small repairs. 

Even if you’re not a DIY expert, having these basics can save you time and money when small issues arise. 

For example, a screwdriver is necessary for tightening loose screws on chairs or tables, while a hammer and nails are useful for hanging artwork or mirrors.

2. Power Strips and Extension Cords

Power strips and extension cords are crucial in ensuring you have enough outlets for all your electronics. 

Many apartments have limited power outlets, and these items help you safely connect multiple devices. 

Power strips often come with surge protectors, which can protect your electronics from voltage spikes. 

Extension cords allow you to place lamps, chargers, and other devices exactly where you need them, even if an outlet is far away. 

3. Light Bulbs and Batteries

Light bulbs can burn out unexpectedly, so it’s good to have a few extras on hand.

Choose bulbs that match your fixtures and provide the lighting you prefer, whether it’s warm or cool light. 

Batteries are needed for various devices like remote controls, clocks, smoke detectors, and other small electronics. 

4. Step Stool

Whether you’re putting away dishes on top shelves, changing light bulbs, or retrieving stored items, a step stool makes these tasks safer and easier.

It’s particularly useful in apartments with high cabinets or storage spaces that are difficult to access.

A foldable step stool can be easily stored when not in use and doesn’t take up much space. 

5. Iron and Ironing Board

This duo is essential for maintaining a neat and professional appearance, especially if you have work clothes that need to look sharp.

An iron can also be used to press bed linens and curtains, giving your apartment a tidy look. An ironing board provides a flat, heat-resistant surface for effective ironing. 

6. Fan or Space Heater

Depending on your climate, a fan or space heater can significantly enhance your comfort in your apartment.

A fan is useful for circulating air and keeping cool during warmer months.

It can also help reduce energy costs by allowing you to use your air conditioning less frequently. 

On the other hand, a space heater is ideal for staying warm in colder months, especially if your apartment’s heating system is inadequate.