As renters, we often have a list of the things we want in an apartment. In fact, research shows that 92% of renters rank having a washer/dryer in the unit as a must-have, with 91% prioritizing air conditioning and 90% wanting soundproof walls. These amenities make life more comfortable and convenient, but once you’ve found the perfect place that checks all of your boxes, it’s time to turn it into a home.
So what do you need to get started? This ultimate first apartment checklist will guide you through the must-have items that will transform your new apartment from a basic rental unit into a cozy home.
How to Make an Apartment Shopping List
Before you start filling up your cart with a bunch of stuff for your first apartment, it’s important to have a plan. A well-thought-out shopping list keeps you organized, helps you stick to your budget, and ensures you get what you actually need, not just what looks good in the moment.
Start by setting a budget that covers the basics first. Moving can get expensive quickly, so prioritizing essentials like furniture, kitchen supplies, and cleaning products will help keep your spending in check. Once the necessities are covered, you can slowly start to add decor and personal touches over time.
Another smart strategy is to categorize your list by room (e.g., living room, bedroom, kitchen) so you can shop efficiently and avoid missing anything important. Remember, you don’t need to buy everything at once.
Bonus Tip: Check out local thrift stores, garage sales, Facebook Marketplace, and local classifieds for decor items. You might find unique pieces that add character to your home without breaking the bank.
What Are The Essentials Every First Apartment Needs?
So you’ve got your checklist and you’re ready to start shopping, but did you remember everything? Let’s break your new apartment down so you know exactly what you should have for each room.
Living Room Must-Haves
Your living room is where you’ll unwind, entertain, and spend a lot of free time, so it should be a space you actually enjoy spending time in. Start with the basics: a sofa or sectional. This is going to be your main hangout spot, so pick something that’s comfy and fits your space.
If you want to add some personality to the living room, consider a statement piece like our faux fur convertible bean bag chair in a bold cow pattern. By day, it’s the perfect spot to curl up with a book or relax while catching up on your favorite show, and by night, it easily transforms into a cozy bed for last-minute guests to get some much needed ZZZs. Pair it with a soft, neutral throw blanket, like our XXL plush corduroy throw blanket in tan, to balance out the boldness of the cow print.
After you’ve gotten your living room seating figured out, you can focus on tying everything together with accent tables, artwork, plants, and other items. Here’s a complete list of what you’ll need:
Sofa or sectional
Accent chairs (e.g., bean bags)
Coffee table
Side tables
TV and TV stand
Throw pillows and blankets
Floor lamps, table lamps, or twinkly lights
Artwork and wall decor
Area rug(s)
Bookshelf or additional storage
Plants or greenery
Curtains or blinds
Bedroom Essentials
Whether you’re getting a good night’s sleep or enjoying a lazy morning in bed, a bedroom should be your own personal sanctuary where you can recharge without hassle. To start, a comfy and supportive bed should be at the top of your list. After all, this is where you’ll spend about a third of your day!
If you’re tired of mattresses that lose their shape or leave you tossing and turning, cordaroys has just what you need. Combining the best of both worlds, our hybrid mattress features memory foam for softness and pocketed coils for support. It also has a cooling system that helps regulate temperature throughout the night. Say goodbye to waking up hot and sweaty and hello to the sleep you’ve always dreamed of.
Have extra space? Consider turning a corner of your room into a cozy reading nook. Add a corner bookshelf, a floor lamp, and a cozy chair or bean bag. If you’ve got the space, add a pouf so you can kick your feet up and really get comfortable. cordaroys’ poufs come in a range of colors and fabrics, so you can find one that fits perfectly into your space.
Here’s everything you’ll need to make sure your bedroom has that perfect cozy vibe:
Mattress and mattress protector
Bed frame and headboard
Sheets, blankets, duvet covers, and pillows
Nightstands or side tables
Bedside lamp or floor lamp
Dresser(s)
Full-length mirror
Wall/door hooks
Under-the-bed organizer
Extra seating (e.g., bean bag chairs)
Kitchen Basics
A recent study shows that one in nine people consider the kitchen “the heart of the home.” The kitchen is where you cook up your favorite meals, entertain friends, and maybe even grab a midnight snack when no one’s watching. For apartment living, where space can be limited, every item you bring in should earn its place. Here’s a list of kitchen must-haves to get you started:
Pots and frying pans
Baking sheets
Kitchen knives
Cutting board
Set of dishes with plates and bowls
Mugs
Glasses (e.g., wine glasses and regular drinking glasses)
Spatula, serving spoons, and tongs
Measuring cups and spoons
Mixing bowls
Dish towels
Coffee maker or kettle
Microwave
Dish rack and drying mat
Trash can and recycling bin
Dining table and chairs (if space allows)
Spice rack or shelf
Bathroom Essentials and Cleaning Supplies
Your bathroom is where you start your day and wind down at night, so it has to be both functional and comfortable. You don’t need a fancy spa setup, but a few essentials can turn your bathroom into a cozy, stress-free spot.
You’ll want the basics like a shower curtain, soft towels, and a bath mat, but you can also add personal touches like a cute toothbrush holder or a small plant for a bit of greenery. Don’t forget cleaning supplies either! Having everything you need on hand means you won’t be scrambling when it’s time to tidy up.
Here’s a quick list of what you’ll need:
Shower curtain and hooks
Bath mat and hand towels
Bath towels and washcloths
Toilet brush and plunger
Extra toilet paper
Shower caddy or organizer
Toothbrush holder
Wastebasket
Cleaning supplies (toilet cleaner, bathroom spray, multi-surface cleaner)
Mop or broom
Vanity or full-length mirror
How to Maximize a Small Space Without Feeling Cramped
Living in an apartment often requires you to get creative with your space. Whether you’re working with a tiny studio or just trying to make the most of a small floor plan, the key is to find smart ways to maximize every inch without making it feel cluttered.
Start by choosing furniture that works double duty. Think storage ottomans, foldable tables, and our convertible bean bag chairs that go from cozy seat to guest bed in seconds. Using vertical space is another option. Floating shelves, wall-mounted hooks, and tall bookcases help keep things organized while freeing up valuable floor space.
Don’t underestimate the power of good lighting and mirrors, either! A well-placed mirror can make a room feel twice as big, while warm, layered lighting prevents that cramped, cave-like feel. Need some inspiration? Here are a few space-saving ideas to make your first apartment feel open and functional:
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Opt for furniture with built-in storage (beds with drawers or coffee tables with shelves).
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Use wall-mounted hooks, pegboards, or shelves to keep things off the floor.
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Choose multipurpose pieces like a dining table that doubles as a desk.
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Keep decor minimal–too many small items can make a space feel cluttered.
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Stick to a light, neutral color palette to make the room feel more open.
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Add mirrors to reflect light and create the illusion of more space.
Looking for extra seating ideas for your apartment? Try space-saving options like stackable stools, sleek poufs, or a bean bag chair that can be tucked away when not in use.
Don’t Just Move In–Make It Home With cordaroys!
Moving into a new place is one thing, but making it feel like home is another. As you check things off your first apartment checklist, why not grab a few pieces from cordaroys that make your new place feel like home from day one? From bean bag chairs to oversized blankets, our pieces blend comfort with style, creating a space that’s perfect for relaxing, entertaining, and everything in between.
Let cordaroys help you turn your new apartment into a space you can’t wait to come home to.
