Moving into your first college apartment or home has to be one of the “Top 10” moments in life! It’s exciting and chaotic, but nothing beats having a space that’s all yours. Before you get caught up in the decor, let’s talk about some must-have home essentials. Yep, you’re going to need more than just your fraternity flag hanging on your balcony. Whether it’s an apartment or house, here’s the ultimate checklist to make sure you’re not eating ramen on the floor with a plastic fork.
Roommate Real Talk
Grabbing all the home essentials might seem chill at first, but that stuff adds up fast. And let’s be real, money doesn’t grow on trees. It’s best to have a conversation with your roommates, figure out who’s getting what, and split the cost. This way, no one’s dropping their whole paycheck on paper towels and dish soap.
Snooze Zone
Behold, the bedroom. This room is highkey your sanctuary, so it needs to be cozy, functional, and nap-ready. Put away the air mattress and invest in these basics. You’ll be sleeping like a baby, your situationship will think you have your life together, and your room will be stocked and ready for anything:
- Bed Sheets
- Blankets
- Clothing Hangers
- Curtains
- Lamp
- Laundry Hamper
- Mattress topper
- Pillows (because one pillow is sus)
Chef It Up
Let’s minimize the need to order DoorDash every chance you get by stocking up your kitchen with all the essentials you need to whip up some fire home-cooked meals. Once you’ve got these supplies locked down, just grab some groceries and you’re basically the next Gordon Ramsey:
- Cooking utensils
- Cutting board
- Dish drying rack
- Dishes
- Drinking glasses
- Food containers for leftovers
- Garbage can
- Mixing bowl
- Oven mitts
- Plates and bowls
- Pots and Pans
- Silverware
- Sponge
- Strainer
- Trash bags
Freshen Up & Handle Business
Imagine chilling on the toilet and scrolling through TikTok for 30 minutes only to realize you forgot to buy toilet paper; we do not want to hear the end of that story… So, do yourself a favor and invest in these essentials to keep that bathroom stocked for you and any unexpected guests:
- Bath mat/rug
- Bath towels
- Curtain hooks
- Shower curtain
- Shower liner
- Toilet plunger and brush
- Toothbrush holder
- Trash can
The Chill Spot
You can’t invite friends over with no furniture, so let’s fix that with this checklist. Whether you’re vibin’ with your buds watching Sunday night football or binge-watching “Love Island” solo, your living room will be the hot spot, guaranteed:
- Curtains
- Lamp
- Remote batteries
- Rugs
- Throw pillows (if you want to be boujee)
The Forgotten Must-Haves
These items won’t cross your mind until you desperately need them, so this will save you from stumbling around at 2:00 AM, begging your neighbor for a flashlight. Seriously, read the room and be prepared:
- Batteries
- Broom and dustpan
- Command hooks or wall-safe tape
- Extension cords/power strips
- First aid kit
- Flashlight
- Iron or steamer
- Scissors
- Vacuum
Where To Find The Goods
Now that you know what to get, let’s talk about where to get it from. Whether you’re all about aesthetic vibes or cheap goods, there’s a store for it all. Walmart and Target are the holy grails of everyday shopping; you’ll walk out with products you didn’t plan on buying (but absolutely needed).
If you’re trying to impress all your guests, TJ Maxx, HomeGoods, and Marshalls are great for stylish decor and essentials. On a budget? Facebook Marketplace is clutch because we are not breaking the bank. And last but certainly not least, the real MVP: Amazon. Perfect for when you’re too lazy to go shopping and would rather have it show up at your doorstep. Plus, Student Prime gives you free shipping, so it’s a win-win.
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Getting these home essentials checked off will make your new place feel like home and save those last-minute freakouts. With this checklist, you’re one step closer to living your best life. If you want to make your move easier, check out our 8 Tips for a Smooth Move-in blog for tips to help you settle in fast.
All images are from GIPHY.COM
