Alright, let’s cut to the chase. You got your first apartment. The keys are in your hand. You walk in, and it’s just… empty. It’s equal parts thrilling and terrifying.
I run a storage unit company, so I’ve helped thousands of people move. I’ve seen the good, the bad, and the “why did you even bring this?” I’m telling you, half the stuff on those “First Apartment Checklist” blogs is garbage you don’t need. You’ll just end up tripping over it.
Here’s the real list. The one I’d give my own kid.
First, The Bed Stuff. You Need To Sleep
Don’t overcomplicate this.
- A mattress. Obviously. You can get a decent one online that comes in a box. It’s weird, but it works.
- A sheet set. Just one. You’re an adult now, you can do laundry.
- A blanket or comforter. Something that feels like a hug.
- A pillow. Don’t cheap out on the pillow. Your neck will thank me.
You don’t need a fancy bed frame on day one. A mattress on the floor has a certain bohemian charm. We’ve all been there.
Next, The Kitchen. So You Don’t Live on Delivery
This is where people lose their minds and buy a banana slicer. Resist.
Here’s what you actually need to cook a real meal:
- One good frying pan. Not a flimsy one. A solid one you can make eggs, grilled cheese, or a steak in.
- One medium-sized pot. For pasta, soup, or boiling water for ramen (no judgment).
- A chef’s knife. Just one good, sharp one. It’s safer than a bunch of dull ones.
- A cutting board.
- A spatula and a big spoon.
- A can opener. SERIOUSLY. Write this down. You will forget it and you will be sad.
For eating:
- Two plates, two bowls, two mugs, a few glasses. That’s it. Enough for you and a friend. You can wash them.
- A basic set of forks, knives, and spoons.
That’s it. You don’t need a gravy boat. You don’t need a stand mixer. You just need to eat.
The Living Room: A Place To Sit That Isn’t Your Bed
You need a spot to just be.
- Something to sit on. A couch is great. A loveseat is fine. A big comfy armchair is perfect. Check Facebook Marketplace or ask your family if they have an old one.
- Something to put your feet (or your drink) on. A coffee table, a sturdy crate, whatever.
The “Boring But Will Save Your Life” Stuff
This is the adulting section. It’s not fun, but it’s critical.
- A TOILET PLUNGER. Buy this before you need it. I cannot stress this enough. A clogged toilet at 2 AM without a plunger is a core memory you do not want.
- A trash can for the kitchen and a small one for the bathroom.
- A roll of duct tape and a basic screwdriver. You’ll use them for a hundred things.
- A lightbulb. Check those ceiling lights. They’re almost always empty.
- A shower curtain and a bath towel.
Now, The Important Part: What You DON’T Need
Feel free to ignore all of this for now:
- That box of your old high school trophies.
- Your grandma’s china set she gave you “for when you entertain.”
- Your seasonal stuff – the Christmas tree, the Halloween decorations, the ski gear.
- The extra furniture your parents are trying to offload onto you.
And here’s my shameless plug, but it’s the truth: This is exactly why my business exists. People like you, starting out, have this stuff they can’t part with but have no room for. You don’t need your snowboard in your closet in July. You don’t need three extra dining chairs crowding your living room.
The Bottom Line
Renting a small storage unit is like getting an extra closet. It’s for the things you love, but don’t need today. It lets you keep your first apartment clean, simple, and livable, without the guilt of getting rid of things. It’s a game-changer.
So, start with this list. Get the essentials. Make your place functional. Then, take a breath. The rest will come together. Go to a thrift store for a cool lamp. Find art you actually like. Build your space slowly.
Congratulations on your new place. This is the fun part. Enjoy it.
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