An Apartment Checklist of What to Buy First

An Apartment Checklist of What to Buy First Getting your first apartment is exhilarating. That empty space is full of promise and prospects for shopping. Let your imagination wander. Depending on your shopping personality, it is easy either to get carried away and blow your money on nonessential (but gratifying) items; or to tremble at the thought of spending your hard-earned income on expensive furniture.
Below is a list of 11 essential purchases for turning your first apartment into a comfortable, functional home. My suggestion is to purchase at least the first five items before you move in.
1. Mattress / BedThis first purchase is a no-brainer, especially after you've spent a night or two on a cold hard floor in a sleeping bag.
Those first days, weeks, or months in your first apartment, your bed can be the place where you eat, read, and watch TV.
Remember to measure your bedroom, before you buy the mattress. Also, think about how much you can spend on sheets. Queen-size sheets cost significantly more than twin sheets.
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2. Trash CansI like having a minimum of three trash cans, one each for the bathroom, the kitchen, and my bedroom.
3. Shower Curtain and Shower RingsNot all apartments come with a shower curtain, and I would be suspicious of how clean one is, if it does. Shower curtains come in all different texture, colors, and can be opaque or transparent. With this inexpensive purchase, you can really add style and personality to your apartment bathroom.
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4. Curtains or BlindsIf you have bare windows in your first apartment, purchase curtains or blinds as soon as you can--for the sake of privacy. Blinds are more functional, but curtains have a soft appeal. Plus, the fabric of curtains is a better barrier against sound and the cold outside.
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5. Chest of Drawers or Hanging Closet OrganizersThere are many ways to store your clothing. As long as you have one, you're all right. A chest of drawers is great, if you have the space. A cheaper alternative to a dresser is stackable plastic drawers. You can also buy hanging shelves with hooks that sit on your closet rod.
Hanging Closet Organizers: Buy Direct
6. Dishware, Cups, and UtensilsIt's much cheaper to eat at home than at a restaurant. Acquire some bowls, cups, plates, forks, spoons, and knives--disposable or permanent.
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