First Apartment Checklist: Everything You Need for Your First Apartment

Moving into your first apartment is exciting — until you realize how many essentials you’re missing.

Most people look for a first apartment checklist only after they’ve already moved in and discover they don’t have a shower curtain, a trash can, or a power strip. That’s exactly why a well-structured checklist makes a significant difference, especially during a time filled with stress, logistics, and the emotions that come with a new beginning.

This is a practical first apartment checklist based on real-life experience and focused on what actually matters during your first few days.

If you’d like the downloadable version, you can find it at the link below:

Downloadable new apartment checklist

 

First Apartment Move-In Checklist (Day 1 Essentials)

For full moving-day organization, including urgent necessities, a moving day checklist helps prevent unexpected situations.

Sleeping Setup

• Mattress
• Full bedding set (sheet + blanket)
• Pillow
• Lamp or light source

Bathroom Basics

• Toilet paper
• Towel
• Soap
• Trash can

Kitchen Survival Kit

• One frying pan or small pot
• Spatula
• Utensils
• Plate + mug
• Dish soap + sponge
• Trash bags

Cleaning Starter Kit

• Multi-surface spray cleaner
• Disinfecting wipes
• Broom or vacuum
• Trash bags

Essentials You’ll Regret Forgetting

• Phone charger
• Extension cord or power strip
• Spare light bulbs
• Bottled water and easy snacks for your first night

At this point, you’ve covered most of the things you need for a new apartment to function properly from day one. Everything else can be added gradually.

 

Bedroom Checklist – Everything You Need for Your First Apartment Bedroom

Sleeping Essentials

• Bed frame or platform
• Mattress
• Mattress protector
• Two sets of sheets
• Pillows (at least two)
• Blanket or comforter

Furniture & Storage

• Nightstand or alternative surface
• Dresser or clothing organizer
• Hangers
• Laundry basket
• Under-bed storage bins

In small apartments, vertical storage and under-bed solutions work better than bulky furniture.

Lighting & Functional Items

• Bedside lamp
• Power strip
• Extension cord
• Blackout curtains (if the area is bright at night)

 

Kitchen Checklist – Things You Need for an Apartment Kitchen

The kitchen is where most people overspend — and still forget the basics.

This is a realistic version of the stuff you need for a new apartment kitchen, without decorative extras or unnecessary gadgets.

Cooking Essentials

• 1 nonstick frying pan
• 1 medium saucepan
• 1 larger pot (optional, but useful)
• Chef’s knife
• Paring knife
• Cutting board
• Spatula
• Large spoon
• Kitchen tongs
• Colander
• Can opener
• Oven mitts

Eating & Serving Basics

• 2–4 plates
• 2–4 bowls
• Flatware set
• 2 drinking glasses
• 2 mugs
• Bread knife (optional)

Food Storage & Organization

Easy to overlook, but essential for staying organized:

• Food storage containers
• Aluminum foil
• Plastic wrap
• Zip-top bags
• Flatware drawer organizer
• Additional cabinet shelf (if storage space is limited)
• Trash can + trash bags

Cleaning & Maintenance

• Dish soap
• Sponges
• Dish brush
• Dish drying rack
• Multi-surface cleaner
• Cleaning cloths
• Kitchen towels
• Trash bags
• Mop or floor wiper

Pantry Starter Kit

• Salt
• Pepper
• Cooking oil
• Sugar
• Coffee or tea
• Rice or pasta
• 1–2 basic canned goods

Things People Forget (But Regret Later)

• Ice cube tray
• Power strip for small appliances
• Extension cord
• Paper towel holder
• Measuring cups
• Box cutter for opening packages

 

Bathroom Checklist – Must-Haves for a New Apartment

The bathroom is the space where missing items become obvious immediately. If even one essential is absent, you’ll notice right away. Below is a practical list of necessities for a new apartment bathroom.

Shower Setup (Top Priority)

• Shower curtain
• Shower liner
• Curtain rod or tension rod
• Non-slip bath mat
• Towels (at least two bath towels + one hand towel)

Toilet & Hygiene Basics

• Toilet paper
• Toilet paper holder
• Toilet brush
• Plunger
• Small trash can

Cleaning & Maintenance

• Bathroom cleaner spray
• Glass cleaner
• Sponges or scrub brushes
• Cleaning cloths
• Disinfectant
• Cleaning gloves

Storage & Organization

• Under-sink organizer
• Shower caddy
• Toothbrush holder
• Small storage bins for personal items

Safety & Small Essentials People Forget

• Spare light bulbs
• Batteries
• First aid kit
• Towel rack or hooks
• Command hooks

 

Living Room Checklist – Stuff You Need for a New Apartment

Seating & Core Furniture

• Sofa or two comfortable chairs
• Coffee table or alternative surface
• Simple storage units (shelves, TV console)

Lighting (Highly Underrated)

• Floor lamp or table lamp
• Spare light bulbs
• Power strip
• Extension cord

Tech & Connectivity

• WiFi router
• Ethernet cable
• Surge protector
• Cable organizer

Storage & Organization

Small living rooms call for smart solutions.

• Decorative storage bins
• Remote organizers
• Shoe rack (if the entry area is part of the living room)
• Basket for blankets

Optional, but Smart

• Area rug (reduces noise and improves comfort)
• Plant stand
• Large mirror (visually expands the space)

 

Hallway Checklist – What You Need by the Door

The hallway doesn’t need to be fully furnished, but it does need to be organized. It serves as the transition zone between outside and inside.

Storage for Daily Items

• Coat rack or wall-mounted hooks
• Wall hooks (Command hooks are especially useful in rental apartments)
• Shoe rack
• Basket or tray for keys

Security & Safety Basics

• Door stopper
• Small flashlight
• Spare batteries
• Package holder or designated delivery spot (if you receive frequent deliveries)

Functional Details People Forget

• Entry mat
• Umbrella
• Mail organizer
• Small mirror (helpful before heading out)

Small Space Optimization

• In smaller apartments:
• Use vertical storage solutions
• Choose narrow furniture
• Avoid bulky cabinets

 

Utilities & Setup Checklist – What to Arrange Before Move-In

A complete new apartment checklist isn’t just about what to buy. It also includes what needs to be activated, scheduled, and verified before you arrive.

These are the essential steps for a move-in without surprises.

Utilities Activation

• Set up electricity
• Activate gas service (if applicable)
• Confirm water service (where separate activation is required)
• Schedule your internet installation appointment

Address & Documentation

• Submit a USPS address change
• Update your address with your bank
• Update your employer
• Notify service providers
• Update subscription services

Insurance & Protection

• Many renters overlook this step.
• Purchase renters insurance
• Confirm the landlord’s policy details
• Check smoke detectors
• Check carbon monoxide detectors

Move-In Logistics

These practical details often come up only when you’re already at the door:

• Reserve the elevator (in buildings with strict policies)
• Confirm your moving time window
• Obtain a parking permit (where required)
• Confirm scheduled deliveries

Important to know:

For a local move in NYC, reserving your time slot and coordinating with building management are essential. In many New York buildings, a Certificate of Insurance (COI) is also required — explained in detail in our guide on what a COI for moving is.

 

First Week Setup

Tasks you can handle in the first few days:

• Test electrical outlets
• Check water pressure
• Confirm appliances are functioning properly
• Document any existing damage and notify your landlord

 

Roommate Coordination Checklist – Who Buys What?

If you’re moving in with one or more roommates, your checklist should also include responsibility planning.

Most apartment conflicts start with simple issues: who bought the vacuum, who pays for WiFi, who keeps the couch if someone moves out. Clarifying these details before move-in saves both money and stress.

Shared Items – Decide Together

These are items everyone will use and should be discussed before moving in:

• Sofa
• Dining table + chairs
• WiFi router
• Vacuum
• Mop
• Trash cans
• Small appliances (microwave, toaster, blender)

Practical tip: create a shared list and clearly note who brings what or how the cost will be split.

Personal Items – Each Person Buys Their Own

To avoid unnecessary disputes, these items should remain individual:

• Bedding
• Pillows
• Towels
• Personal hygiene products
• Clothing
• Laptop / personal electronics

In some apartments, even dishes are kept separate.

Avoiding Duplicates

• An apartment with three roommates does not need:
• Three toasters
• Two vacuums
• Four complete dish sets
• Three coffee tables

For temporary organization and a more efficient move, using plastic moving bins helps reduce clutter and minimizes the risk of damage.

Cost Sharing Rules

• Discuss before move-in:
• What happens if someone moves out?
• Who keeps jointly purchased items?
• How will replacement costs be divided?

 

Let the Professionals Handle the Move — You Focus on the Setup

You can have a perfectly organized list of things you need for a new apartment, but if the move itself is chaotic, the experience quickly becomes exhausting.

If you haven’t booked your move yet, the most efficient decision you can make is to place the logistics in the hands of professionals.

At Moishe’s Moving, we handle:

• Professional packing
• Protection of furniture and fragile items
• Organized loading
• Safe transportation
• Unloading and placement in your new apartment
• Unpacking services, if needed

You focus on everything you need for your first apartment and setting up your new space. We manage the physical side of the move.

For a first apartment move, the difference between a stressful experience and a controlled one often comes down to the team handling your belongings.

If you want your moving day to be simple, organized, and free of surprises, leave the packing, transportation, and handling to Moishe’s Moving.

You focus on setting up your new place. We’ll handle the heavy lifting.

 

Printable First Apartment Checklist

If you’d like an organized, easy-to-use, and reusable version, you can find the printable first apartment checklist here — ready to save, print, and adapt for any future move.

You can use it as a shopping list, a pre-move verification list, or a long-term organization checklist.

 

FAQ – First Apartment Checklist

What do I actually need for my first apartment?

You need functional essentials that allow you to sleep, cook basic meals, and keep the space clean. A realistic first apartment checklist starts with a bed and mattress, basic kitchenware, cleaning supplies, a shower curtain, trash cans, and active internet service. Everything else can be added gradually. Decor and nonessential items are not priorities during the first few weeks.

 

How much should I budget for a first apartment setup?

Your budget depends on the city and whether you’re buying new or second-hand items. In general, for basic necessities, expect to spend between $500 and $1,500. Costs decrease if you share expenses with roommates or bring existing furniture. Part of your budget should also account for choosing the right moving company, with selection criteria detailed in the guide on how to choose the best moving company in NYC.

 

What should I buy before moving in?

Certain items should be purchased before moving day. Cleaning supplies, toilet paper, spare light bulbs, a shower curtain, and extension cords are essential. Without them, your first day in the apartment becomes unnecessarily complicated. These items belong on any well-prepared moving into apartment checklist.

What do most people forget when moving into their first apartment?

The most common omissions are small but important items. A plunger, trash cans, extension cords, drawer organizers, or a toilet paper holder are often overlooked. Their absence becomes obvious immediately after move-in, when you suddenly need them.

 

Should I buy everything at once?

There’s no need to purchase everything on day one. The most efficient approach is phased: start with first-day essentials, complete one room at a time, and upgrade gradually as you learn how you use the space. This method allows you to build everything you need for your first apartment without unnecessary financial pressure.

 

Is renters insurance necessary?

In many cities, it’s mandatory; in others, it’s strongly recommended. Renters insurance protects personal belongings and can cover unexpected situations. A complete new apartment checklist should always include this protection step.