First Apartment Checklist for Women (Everything You Actually Need)

Moving into your first apartment? Deep breath, girl — this is big.

It’s more than just a new space. It’s your space.

Your own little world where you get to choose what stays, what goes, and where the mugs live (yes, even if it’s just two of them for now).

I still remember standing in my first apartment, staring at a blank wall, thinking… “Where do I even start?”

Truth is, no one tells you how much stuff you actually need until you’re lying on the floor with no pillows, trying to eat cereal out of a mug because you forgot bowls.

That’s exactly why I made this checklist.

Not the Pinterest-perfect kind with a million random things you’ll never use — but a real, honest, “this will actually make your life easier” list.

Let’s get you all set up, one room at a time.

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1. Apartment Essentials by Room

Bedroom Must-Haves

Your bedroom doesn’t need to look like a Pinterest dream board on day one — it just needs to feel like you.

Cozy, safe, and a little bit like a hug after a long day.

Here’s what you actually need to start with:

Mattress or air mattress – A mattress on the floor is totally fine in the beginning. Comfort over aesthetics, always.
Sheets, pillowcases, and a blanket – Soft ones. Because trust me, that first night sleep hits different.
Pillows (at least two) – One for your head and one to hug (because we all do it).
Comforter or duvet – Lightweight or fluffy, depending on your vibe and the season.
Laundry hamper – Because dirty clothes on the floor will pile up fast.
Closet hangers – You’ll never think you need 20 hangers… until you do.
Nightstand or small table – Even a crate or a stool works. You’ll want somewhere to keep your phone and water bottle.
Lamp or soft lighting – Overhead lights at night? Ew. A soft glow makes all the difference.
Makeup Mirror – Doesn’t have to be fancy. Just something bright and clear enough to do your makeup without guessing.

Optional but helpful:

Small fan or heater (depending on the weather)
Storage bins or under-bed boxes
Curtain or blackout shades (if you like it really dark)

Real talk tip: Don’t stress about having everything perfect. Your room will evolve with you. Start with the basics, and let the rest come together piece by piece — just like you are.

Also Read: First Apartment Checklist on a Budget

Bathroom Basics

The bathroom is one of those places where the small stuff matters — and you usually don’t realize what’s missing until it’s way too late.

Here’s what you’ll want to have ready from the start:

Shower curtain + rings + rod – If your shower needs one, don’t skip this or you’ll flood the floor on day one.
Bath towels (at least 2) – One to use, one for laundry day.
Hand towel + washcloths or loofah – For quick freshen-ups or face washing.
Toilet paper (like, stock up) – Just trust me on this.
Plunger – Not glamorous, but you’ll be so glad you have it when the time comes.
Toilet brush – Another one of those not-fun-but-necessary things.
Basic toiletries – Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, face wash, deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrush, razor.
Shower caddy or shelf – To keep your stuff from crowding the edges of the tub.
Trash can (with a lid if possible) – No one wants to look at… bathroom things.
Cleaning spray + sponge or cloth – Just a quick wipe-down every now and then will save you later.

Optional but handy:

Bath mat or towel for the floor
Over-the-door hooks for towels or robes
Small storage basket for extra TP and supplies

Elle’s little reminder: Keeping your bathroom clean isn’t about being fancy — it’s about feeling good in your own space. There’s something kinda powerful about having your own little sanctuary, even if it’s tiny.

Kitchen Essentials

You don’t need a full-on chef’s kitchen.

You just need enough to make coffee, toast something, and not burn the place down.

Cooking basics:

Frying pan – Eggs, grilled cheese, veggies — your go-to starter tool.
Small saucepan – For heating soup, boiling pasta, or making oatmeal.
Cooking utensils – One spatula, one stirring spoon, one pair of tongs. That’s it.
Cutting board – Go for plastic if you’re lazy with cleanup (no shame).
Chef’s knife – Just one good, sharp knife makes all the difference.
Measuring cups + spoons – Especially helpful if you’re following recipes or winging it like me.

Dinnerware + drinkware:

2 plates, 2 bowls, 2 mugs, 2 glasses – Start small. You’re not running a restaurant.
Cutlery (forks, knives, spoons) – Enough for you + one guest or late-night cereal round two.
Can opener – Because cans are a pain without it.
Strainer/colander – If pasta’s in your future (it always is).
Tupperware or food storage containers – For leftovers, meal prep, or takeout you didn’t finish.
Water bottle or pitcher – Especially if you don’t trust your tap water.

Appliances (if not provided):

Microwave – Total game changer for reheating and lazy cooking.
Toaster or toaster oven – Optional, but makes breakfast so much easier.
Coffee maker or electric kettle – Depending on your drink of choice.

Cleaning supplies:

Dish soap + sponge – The bare minimum.
Trash bags + trash can – Don’t forget liners!
Paper towels or dish towels – For spills, drying, wiping.
Broom or small handheld vacuum – If your kitchen shares space with crumbs (and they will appear).

Elle’s tip: You can build up your kitchen slowly. Don’t feel like you need every tool on day one. Focus on what you’ll actually use — and be okay with using your frying pan for just about everything in the beginning. It’s a rite of passage.

Living Room Stuff

This room doesn’t need to be “done” right away. It just needs to feel like you. A soft place to land.

Start with the basics:

Somewhere to sit – Couch, futon, bean bag, floor cushions… whatever fits your space and your budget.
Coffee table or small side table – Just somewhere to set snacks, remotes, and half-finished drinks.
Lamp or soft lighting – Overhead lights are harsh. A cozy corner lamp changes everything.
Wi-Fi router/modem – If your place doesn’t come with it built-in.
TV or laptop setup – No pressure, but it’s nice to have a go-to chill spot.

Optional (but cozy):

Throw blanket – Adds comfort and hides your empty couch for a while.
Rug – Totally optional, but it makes even a cheap floor feel warm and lived-in.
TV stand, shelf, or crates – Don’t worry if it’s not pretty yet. Function first.
Wall art, photos, or fairy lights – Start small, add slowly. Don’t let blank walls stress you out.

Elle’s reminder: Don’t feel rushed to make it Pinterest-perfect. Your living room will come to life slowly — with thrift finds, hand-me-downs, or that one random piece you fall in love with at Target. Let it grow with you.

Laundry & Cleaning Supplies

These are the behind-the-scenes heroes of apartment life.

You don’t need a full cleaning closet, but having the basics on hand? Total game changer.

Laundry must-haves:

Laundry basket or hamper – Preferably one with handles. You’ll be lugging this.
Detergent – Pods or liquid, whatever’s easiest for you.
Stain remover – For mystery spots that show up right before you go out.
Drying rack – Especially if you can’t or don’t want to use a dryer.
Hangers – Yes, again. You’ll need more.

Cleaning supplies (the non-negotiables):

All-purpose cleaner – One bottle that works for countertops, floors, sinks, etc.
Sponges or scrub brush – For dishes and bathroom grime.
Paper towels or microfiber cloths – Trust me, they disappear fast.
Broom + dustpan – Or a Swiffer-style sweeper if you’re feeling fancy.
Small vacuum – Even a cheap handheld one is better than none.
Toilet brush + cleaner – Don’t skip this.
Trash bags – Always have extras. Always.
Disinfecting wipes or spray – Great for kitchen and bathroom touchups.
Air freshener or candle – Because your space deserves to smell good, too.

Optional but helpful:

Rubber gloves (for deep cleaning days)
Lint roller
Mop or floor cleaner (if you have non-carpeted floors)

Elle’s real talk: You don’t have to be a clean freak, but having the basics means your space stays livable — and you won’t be panic-cleaning when someone comes over last minute.

Also Read: The Only First Apartment Cleaning Supplies List You’ll Ever Need

Safety & Security Musts

Your peace of mind is non-negotiable. You deserve to feel safe and in control of your space — even if it’s your very first apartment.

Here’s what I recommend for that extra layer of “I got this.”

Must-haves:

Door lock reinforcement – Think: a security bar or portable door lock for extra backup. Especially helpful at night.
Window locks or alarms – Cheap little gadgets that beep if a window opens. Great if you’re on the ground floor.
Fire extinguisher – If your apartment doesn’t already come with one. Keep it somewhere easy to grab.
First aid kit – Doesn’t have to be fancy. Just enough to handle little cuts, headaches, or burns.
Flashlight (with batteries) – For power outages or weird noises you don’t want to investigate in the dark.
Spare key – Hidden safely (not under your doormat, please) or given to someone you trust.
Emergency contacts list – Saved in your phone and written somewhere, just in case.

Nice-to-haves:

Doorbell camera or indoor cam – Even a basic one can make you feel more in control.
Personal safety alarm or pepper spray – Just in case. Especially if you’re walking home alone at night.
Door stopper wedge – Extra peace of mind when you’re home alone.

Elle’s take: Safety doesn’t mean being scared — it means being ready. And sometimes, it’s the little things that make you sleep a little better. You don’t need to go full-on security mode, but having even a couple of these? Huge difference.

2. Not-So-Obvious Things You’ll Wish You Had

You won’t see these on most apartment checklists — but you will be glad they’re on this one.

Scissors – You will open so many boxes the first week. Do not try with a butter knife. Trust me.
Tool kit (just a basic one) – Screwdriver, hammer, tape measure. You’ll need it for furniture assembly, loose knobs, or hanging stuff.
Extension cords & power strips – Because outlets are never where you want them to be.
Command hooks or strips – For hanging keys, towels, lights — without damaging the walls.
Batteries – For remotes, clocks, or those mystery things you’ll totally forget about.
Tape (masking + duct tape) – Random but clutch. From sealing boxes to emergency fixes.
Umbrella – You won’t think of it until it rains and you’re already locked out trying to find the mailbox.
Step stool – Because reaching top cabinets while balancing on a chair? Not a cute ER story.
Lighter or matches – For candles, stovetops, or when the power goes out.
Ziplock bags + aluminum foil – You’ll find a hundred uses for these. From leftovers to organizing.

Elle’s tip: Think of this section like the “junk drawer” of your apartment — full of random magic. These are the things that make life smoother and way less annoying.

Also Read: First Apartment Tips No One Really Tells You

3. Budget-Friendly Furniture Ideas

Start with the basics

You need somewhere to sleep, sit, and eat — that’s it. Everything else can wait.

Mattress on the floor? Totally fine. You can upgrade with a frame later when you have the budget.
Floor cushions or bean bags – If you don’t have a couch yet, these make movie nights way comfier.
Folding tables and chairs – Cheap, lightweight, and perfect until you find a dining table you actually like.
Crates or stacked boxes – Instant shelving or side tables. Throw a cloth over them, and boom, done.
Thrift stores & Facebook Marketplace = goldmine. You can find solid furniture for half the price if you’re patient.

Focus on multifunctional pieces

A futon or daybed works as both a couch and a guest bed.
Storage ottomans double as seating and hide all your “I’ll deal with it later” stuff.
Rolling carts? Perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, or as a side table.

DIY magic

A couple of wooden crates stacked together make a rustic bookshelf.

An old door or plank on two stools = desk.

Even a cute tablecloth can turn a plain table into something you love.

Elle’s real talk: Don’t rush to “finish” your apartment. The best spaces grow with you — piece by piece, memory by memory. You’ll find furniture that means something rather than just filling space.

Also Read: 25 First Apartment Room Ideas That’ll Transform Your Space

4. First Grocery Haul Essentials

This list is all about easy meals, quick snacks, and basic stuff to get you through that first week — no fancy recipes required.

Fridge staples:

Milk or non-dairy alternative
Eggs
Butter or margarine
Shredded cheese
Fresh fruit (like apples or grapes — no prep needed)
Salad mix or baby spinach
Your go-to drink (juice, soda, iced coffee, whatever gets you through)

Freezer basics:

Frozen veggies (they last forever and go with anything)
Frozen meals or snacks (for the “I’m too tired to cook” nights)
Chicken breasts, nuggets, or veggie patties
Ice cream or popsicles (because… new apartment = celebration)

Pantry must-haves:

Pasta
Rice or instant noodles
Canned soup or beans
Peanut butter or Nutella
Cereal or granola
Bread or tortillas
Crackers or chips
Spices: salt, pepper, garlic powder (the holy trinity for beginners)

Quick meal helpers:

Pasta sauce
Canned tuna or chicken
Ramen
Mac & cheese
Microwave popcorn
Oatmeal or instant breakfast packs

Don’t forget:

Cooking oil (olive or vegetable)
Sugar (even if just for coffee or tea)
Coffee or tea
Bottled water (if your tap isn’t it)
Trash bags + foil + sandwich bags

Elle’s little tip: Don’t try to fill your fridge in one go. Get just enough for the week, and learn what you actually reach for. The rest will come with time (and a few late-night snack cravings).

5. Digital Things to Set Up

You’ve got the keys and the furniture — now let’s get your tech + life admin in order.

Here’s what to set up right after you move in:

Wi-Fi + Streaming

Internet service – Set it up before move-in day if you can, or book a technician ASAP.
Wi-Fi router + password – Write it down somewhere you won’t lose it.
Streaming accounts – Netflix, Hulu, Spotify, whatever keeps you sane while you unpack.

Utilities & Bills

Electricity + Water + Gas – If these aren’t already included, make sure accounts are in your name and payments are set up.
Mobile payment apps – Venmo, Zelle, or Cash App — helpful for rent, splitting bills, or buying a couch off Facebook Marketplace.

Emergency + Safety

Renter’s insurance – Super underrated. It protects your stuff in case of fire, theft, or a burst pipe disaster.
Emergency contacts – Saved in your phone and written down somewhere.
Maintenance contact – Know who to call if your faucet leaks or your heat goes out.

Delivery + Navigation

Address update – Change it on Amazon, banks, ID, and anywhere else you shop online.
Food delivery apps – Uber Eats, DoorDash, Instacart — because there will be days when you just can’t.
Google Maps or Apple Maps – Save your home address so you never fumble when calling a ride.

Elle’s tip: Don’t wait until you need something to set it up. A little prep now = fewer headaches later. And hey — once the Wi-Fi is working? You’re officially home.

Also Read: First Apartment Decorating Ideas

6. What You Don’t Really Need (Right Away)

Let’s stop pretending you need a waffle maker and a salad spinner on day one, okay?

Here’s what you can hold off on:

Living Room “extras”

Fancy TV stand — a crate or low table works fine for now.
Coffee table books — pretty, but not urgent.
Matching decor sets — your style will grow over time.

Kitchen overkill

Blender, food processor, or mixer — unless you use them constantly, save it for later.
Full dinnerware sets — you really only need 2-3 of everything at first.
Wine glasses, cocktail shakers, cake pans — unless you’re entertaining regularly, skip.

Cleaning overload

Steam mop, Swiffer WetJet, full vacuum system — unless your space really needs them, a broom + sponge gets the job done.
Every cleaning product under the sun — one all-purpose spray and some wipes are more than enough to start.

Bedroom extras

Bed frame with storage drawers and headboard — cute, but your mattress on the floor is just fine for now.
Decorative pillows — fun, but you’ll probably just throw them on the floor anyway.
Matching nightstands — not needed. That random stool will do just fine.

Random things stores want you to buy

Paper towel holders, banana stands, butter dishes (???)
12-pack storage bin sets that just sit there empty
“Bathroom sets” with toothbrush holders, soap dispensers, etc. — you’ll probably swap them later anyway

Elle’s reminder: You don’t need everything on Day 1. Or even Week 1. Start small, see what your daily life actually looks like, and build from there. Your apartment isn’t a showroom — it’s your space.

One Last Thing Before You Go…

Moving into your first apartment is wild.

It’s exciting and overwhelming and weirdly emotional. One minute you’re building furniture at 1 AM, the next you’re crying over how quiet your fridge hums in the middle of the night.

So if you’re feeling all over the place right now — that’s okay.

You’re not supposed to have it all figured out. You’re not supposed to have a Pinterest-perfect apartment by the weekend.

You’re building something way more beautiful — a life that’s yours. One bowl, one blanket, one Target run at a time.

Give yourself permission to do it messy. To eat dinner on the floor. To not have curtains yet. To make memories before everything feels “done.”

Because you’re the magic here — not the furniture.

And trust me, one day you’ll look around at the space you made, the little systems you figured out, the quiet joy of living alone… and you’ll think, “Damn. I did this.”

You’ve got this, girl. I’m cheering you on every step of the way.

First Apartment Checklist for Women (Everything You Actually Need)