
Batteries of various types, including backups for your flashlight.Paper (for grocery lists, doodles, etc.).Basic tools, including screwdrivers (flat and Phillips-heads), hammer (and some small nails), duct tape, box-cutter or X-acto knife, duct tape, pliers, wrench, and masking tape (at the very least, get a Leatherman, which includes basic versions of most of the above-mentioned tools).Laundry soap, fabric softener, stain remover (e.g.Towels (bath and hand) and washcloths (be sure to have extras for any guests who spend the night).bath soap, hand soap, shampoo, lotion, etc.) Shower curtain (and rings to hold it up).For more kitchen essentials, check out our Starter Pantry and Staples Checklist, our Starter Equipment Checklist and Sam’s favorite kitchen equipment sources.Additional free-standing shelves or storage, as needed (e.g.Good, sharp knives (at least one large chef’s knife and a small paring knife).Paper (or newspaper) to line cupboards and shelves.Rolls of aluminum foil, wax paper, plastic wrap, and parchment paper.Plastic containers for food storage (e.g.Container for countertop storage of spatulas, ladles, whisks, etc.plates, glasses, mugs, bowls, serving platters, etc.) For more furnishing suggestions check out our Basic Furniture Checklist.Couch, chairs, or other things to sit on.Lamp, if there’s no other light source by the door.Small area rug (for just inside the door).

And if we’ve missed anything, please let us know in the comments! Our suggested top priorities are in bold, but before you panic keep in mind many of these items can be bought cheaply second-hand or even picked up free. Here’s a handy checklist of things you’ll need (or at least want, in all likelihood), organized by room, with extra blanks for YOU to fill in. Congrats, you’re now all ready to move into your first apartment! Except, wait a minute, you’re not. You found an apartment, you signed the lease, you wrote the check. Things You Need For Your First Apartment: The Ultimate Checklist
