Whether you've just moved out of your college dorm or are finally leaving your childhood home and moving into your first apartment, it's an exciting new milestone that deserves to be celebrated. While moving into your first apartment can be fun and joyful, it can also be overwhelming and exhausting, from accepting your independence to packing and filling an empty apartment.
To make it a little easier for you, the reporters and editors at Insider Reviews shared the things they couldn't have done without when they moved into their first apartment.
Whether it's a set of cozy sheets or handy hangers for photos, here are 18 things we're happy to have in the first place we called home.
1. A rolling cart for extra storage and space
This sturdy three-tiered rolling cart was one of the best purchases I made when I moved into an apartment as a student. I've had more than one and used it in several places, including a large bathroom with minimal built-in storage for essentials, the kitchen for disposable plates, silverware, cups, and other supplies, and my bedroom for all my craft supplies. The three levels allow for much storage and make it easy to organize. Plus, it can fit in small spaces and quickly move around with its wheels.
Buy: A rolling cart for extra storage and space
2. A tool kit for all your assembling and decorating needs
My dad gave me a tool kit when I moved into my first apartment, and although I balked at first, I've always been happy to have it when minor repairs are needed. It's also beneficial when putting together furniture. I recommend having a hammer, a Phillips screwdriver, and a flathead screwdriver.
Buy: A tool kit for all your assembling and decorating needs
3. Control strips and hooks for a mess-free decorative wall
I've lost too many security deposits due to wall damage from nails I've driven in. Here's the power of Command strips and hooks, which allow you to hang pictures, lamps, and more without damaging your walls. Having these on hand is beneficial if you live in an older building (as first apartments often are). Older walls are usually plaster that crumbles when you try to nail it down.
Buy: Control strips and hooks for a mess-free decorative wall
4. A baking sheet for your baked goods
Whether you have roommates or live alone, a quarter baking sheet is a perfect size. You can make a handful of cookies or roast just enough vegetables to get you through the day. It takes up less space than a half pan and fits even the tightest apartment ovens. I use my quarter pans when I want to grill a fish fillet or when I have a few too many cookies for my half pan.
Buy: A baking sheet for your baked goods
5. Curtains to block out city lights and noise
Most first apartments are in large buildings in populated areas. Unless you're a creature of the night, you'll want to invest in blackout curtains so you can sleep peacefully. Blackout curtains block out light but also muffle noise and keep the heat in, which can help you save on your heating bill in the winter.
Buy: Curtains to block out city lights and noise
6. A smart LED bulb
I always put connected bulbs in my hard-to-reach fixtures and lamps because I will (almost) never have to change them. LED bulbs can last for decades, so you won't have to keep a box of replacement bulbs, which is perfect if you're short on space. They're also an upgrade you can take from apartment to apartment. Plus, the color-changing bulbs are fun for the holidays.
Buy: A smart LED bulb
7. A good shower head
You don't have to use the shower head that came with the apartment! It took me way too long to figure this out. For about $25, you can get a good shower head with solid pressure. I like that you can remove the shower head from its holder to clean hard-to-reach places. There are also several flow options. I am far from a DIYer and was able to install this shower head with a simple wrench easily.
Buy: A good shower head
8. An electric kettle to boil water quickly
I use my electric kettle every day, and that's how you know it's a true essential. Boiling water for coffee in a minute or less is vital to my morning routine. This kettle is fast and well designed - it has a side window that lights up, so you can see when the water is about to boil. If you're a tea or coffee lover, you might want a more accurate kettle, but this simple kettle is perfect for me.
Buy: An electric kettle to boil water quickly
9. A rack to store extra clothes
If you're someone who not only needs a little extra space but likes to show off your favorite clothes, this rack is an excellent and affordable purchase. The bedroom in my first apartment wasn't the most spacious, so this $106 clothing rack became my best friend. I've received many compliments on its stylish design while saving closet space.
Buy: A rack to store extra clothes
10. A shoe rack to keep your entryway or closet tidy
Shoe shelves are great for keeping a small space organized, and the Whitmor Floor Shoe Shelf is sturdy and affordable. For less than $20, you can store 20 pairs of shoes while keeping your small apartment's entryway or closet tidy.
Buy: A shoe rack to keep your entryway or closet tidy
