7 Essentials for Your First Apartment

Whether you snagged a spacious 2-bedroom, or you’re feeling cozy inside of a studio, check out these items to add to your checklist:

Curtains covering a window that looks out to a forest.

1. Window shades and blinds

Moving into your first apartment can give you a sense of freedom – and privacy. To feel more comfortable in your home, start with the windows.

Switch out window coverings to add extra protection from the sun. Choose a color and style that work best with your room decor. Consider your sleeping habits: Do you need complete darkness to sleep at night? Try blackout curtains. Do you wake up to natural light? Choose a lightweight sheer fabric.

Check with your landlord before buying supplies. Get written confirmation, especially if you need to drill holes. Ask if you need to patch the holes before you move out or if money will be taken out of your security deposit. Not allowed to drill? No problem. Invest in a tension rod, or use sticky, temporary hanging solutions to help avoid damaging the walls.

Pro-Tip: Create the illusion of a larger window by choosing a rod that extends beyond the window’s true width. Always measure before you buy your rod and curtains, especially if your window is low to the ground or hovering over a heater.

A gallery wall with prints of flowers and greenery.

2. Interior decor

You might be itching to paint those walls, but if your agreement won’t allow you to do so, look for furniture and accessories in colors, shapes and textures that pop.

Pictures and art are an easy way to make a space more homey, especially if you can organize the frames to create a gallery wall. Measure, measure, measure. Use a multipurpose laser level tool to help keep frames straight and evenly spaced.

Upholstered headboards can make your bed stand out against an empty wall. Add more storage to your room with a cabinet headboard.

Ask the landlord if you can change kitchen cabinets or bathroom shelving, whether it is swapping out door handles or painting them a new color. Remember, you may need to revert back to their original status if you change anything. Always ask about the move-out process before proceeding with any ambitious DIY projects.

Pro-Tip: Avoid a whitewashed look by lining the back walls of bookcase shelves with craft paper. Select a fun print for a more eclectic feel.

A kitchen island with six drawers and a lower shelf.

3. Kitchen storage

The kitchen is the heart of the home, so give it some love.

Use your table as a decorating space. Instead of swapping out every element of the table – from napkins to placemats – just change out a few core elements. This can help add a homey feel while still staying under budget.

For your dining table, choose a centerpiece for all seasons such a glass vase or bowl. Change from dusty white pinecones in winter to faux florals in spring. Purchase neutral-colored placemats that work with any season, and swap out simple tablecloths to go with your color schemes.

Small kitchen? Find collapsible furniture that serves multiple purposes. For example, an expandable dining table can be used for dinner parties. Invest in stackable chairs that are easy to store in a closet.

Put cookbooks in a safe place away from the kitchen sink or sticky surfaces. Always keep hanging decorations away from the oven or stove. Watch out for flammables.

Pro-Tip: A small island or bar cart adds storage and dimension to your space. Use carts with wheels to roll out board games or your favorite bottles of wine. Please drink responsibly.

A wall bed that turns into a functional desk space.

4. Space-saving furniture

Futons have come a long way in comfort and function. Find a budget-friendly futon that comes with built-in storage compartments, and pair it with a coffee table. Keep blankets in a medium-size basket tucked away underneath the table.

In your work space, select a desk that also can be used as a TV stand. Invest in a large computer monitor, or get a TV you can connect or stream your laptop to.

Wall beds are especially great for rooms that double as a workspace or reading nook. More elaborate wall beds transform from desk to bed. Others have storage built in to the unit.

Get more bedroom storage by buying pieces that can store different types of items. Ladder bookshelves, for example, can store folded up blankets and books. Nightstands with drawers are great to store earplugs, a bedtime book and more.

5. Bathroom organization

Design your bathroom with storage in mind.

Use stacking racks – like those found in kitchen cabinets – underneath the bathroom sink. Pick a side for cleaning supplies and use the other side for your spare health and beauty essentials

Switch out the showerhead with a newer model to conserve water or help get better flow. Store the original and swap it back before moving out.

Use an over-the-door hook for towels. Find ways to incorporate storage throughout the room, such as adding shelves. Place extra supplies in sealed containers with lids.

Pro-Tip: Keep the bathroom tidy with a closed-lid garbage can. Use small garbage bags that are easy to take out at the end of the week.

6. Functional rugs

Before your move into your new apartment, do a walk-through with your landlord. A walk-through allows each tenant to note blemishes and issues before you move in. Make note of missing electrical outlet covers, scratches on the floor or indents hiding behind doors.

Does your floor show traces of former tenants? Conceal blemishes and worn areas with a well-placed rug. Before you buy, check out these tips for choosing the right size for your space.

A mattress covered in neutral-colored sheets.

7. A comfy mattress

A good night’s sleep is important, especially after a busy moving day! Consider these factors before choosing a mattress for you:

Size: How much space do you have in your room? Consider downsizing if you space is limited.
Heat: Buy a cooling mattress if you sleep hot.
Firmness: Test out what level of firmness works for you.

Moving in with a partner? Consider purchasing an adjustable base to adapt to different sleeping styles.

If you love to have breakfast in bed or share the bed with your pet, it’s wise to invest in a mattress protector. Mattress protectors are a great way to keep out unexpected spills and leaks.

Pro-Tip: Keep a backup set of sheets. If you have a friend come to visit, you’re prepared.

It’s essential to set up a space – no matter how large – to stay organized. At the same time, your personal flair should shine through, so don’t be afraid to collect decorations over time. Stock up on storage, home decor and, most importantly, a mattress that’s best for you.

*Make sure to check your lease agreement before making any changes to your rental.