Moving into your first apartment can be exciting as well as nerve-wracking. Living on your own is a great way to become more independent and to learn more about yourself, but it can also be a bit scary.
I recently moved into my first apartment on my college campus. While perhaps it's a bit more like a dorm than an apartment, I found there were some items that I'm glad I didn't forget at home.
In the bustle of packing your things and moving in, it is easy to forget a thing or two, but there are some things that are just too important to forget.
1. Vacuum cleaner
Despite your apartment being "new", it could still be dirty. Make sure to vacuum before doing anything else, and then hold on to it for regular vacuuming!
2. Clorox wipes
These wipes are LIFESAVERS. They clean almost anything and are great for quick cleaning.
4. Key chain
Don't get locked out on your first day. Invest in a cute lanyard or keychain and never let it out of your sight.
5. Dish soap
You're going to have dishes and you're going to have to wash them. Buy some dish soap and get to work!
6. Shower curtain
Apartments don't come with shower curtains. You're gonna need to buy one.
7. Bug spray
Depending on how old your apartment is, and where it is, you might have a bug problem. You're gonna want to have bug spray on hand, and maybe the number for a good exterminator.
8. Lamps
You're gonna love lamp when you arrive to move in and realize your apartment has no built-in lighting. If you don't want to be eating your macaroni and cheese by candlelight, you should purchase a lamp or two or three.
9. Water filter
Sometimes the water that comes out of your sink tastes nasty. It doesn't mean it's toxic or anything, it just might taste gross. If that's the case, having a water filter pitcher or a faucet filtration system might come in handy.
10. Toolkit
You never know when you might need a hammer or a screwdriver...
11. Shoe rack
You're always going to have to many shoes than you'll know what to do with. Invest in a shoe rack. Problem solved!
12. First aid kit
Having a first aid kit lying around is always a good idea. Whether you need a Band-Aid or some antihistamines, you'll be happy you had a first aid kit.
13. Pots and pans
If you plan to do any cooking in your new apartment, you will need to have a few pots and pans.
14. Plates and bowls
In the long run, buying a cheap set of plates and bowls will be less expensive than buying paper products, and better for the environment!
15. Cutlery
Along with plates and bowls, you will probably need forks, spoons, and knives.
16. Rugs
Rugs are a great way to make a space your own while also covering up any weird carpet stains.
17. Chargers
You really can't forget this. Make sure you bring your phone charger, laptop charger, and any other charging cables you need. Seriously.
18. Extension cords
Extension cords are SUPER helpful. You never know where the outlets are going to be, so being able to stretch your cords is essential.
19. Stationary
Writing letters to friends and family is a great way to stay in touch, so get yourself some paper, envelopes, and stamps!
20. Mugs
Finally, if you bring anything, bring a mug. It is a cup, bowl, and plate all in one. You really can eat anything out of a mug.