Essentials for a New Home: The Ultimate Checklist
Moving into a new home can be super exciting, but it can also get overwhelming. Between all your unpacking and exploring in your new home, it can be difficult to remember all of the key items that you’ll need. This guide will help you remember all of your essentials for a new home; from day 1 must-haves, to settled in nice-to-haves. By organizing your purchases, you can reduce stress, avoid overspending, and turn your house into a home in no time!
To make things easier, we’ve organized your essentials by urgency; from what you’ll need right away, what can wait a week, to what’s nice to add once you’re settled in.
Day 1 Essentials:
For safety and security:
Spare keys & secure locks
💸 $15–$40 | 💎 $100–$200
Pro tip: Always rekey or change locks on move-in day.
Flashlight or emergency lantern
💸 $10–$20 | 💎 $40–$60
Smoke & carbon monoxide detectors
💸 $25–$40 | 💎 $80–$150
Why it matters: Before anything else, make sure your home feels safe. A few smart moves early on can protect you, your family, and your belongings.
For basic comfort:
Bedding (sheets, pillows, comforter)
💸 $40–$80 | 💎 $100–$200
Lamps or bedside lighting
💸 $15–$25 | 💎 $60–$120
Laundry basket & detergent
💸 $10–$40
Hand soap & towels for each bathroom
💸 $10–$25 | 💎 $40–$70
Why it matters: After moving day, these are all items you’ll sorely miss if you forget them. A shower, bed, and basic hygiene products are going to be must-haves.
First-Day Tools & Utilities:
Basic tool kit (hammer, screwdriver set, pliers, tape measure)
💸 $25–$50 | 💎 $75–$150
Pro tip: Look for kits that include a level and Allen keys.
Nails, screws & hanging hardware
💸 $10–$20 | 💎 $30–$50
Pro tip: Keep small parts in labeled jars or containers.
Power strips & extension cords
💸 $10–$20 | 💎 $40–$70
Fire extinguisher
💸 $25–$40 | 💎 $70–$120
Batteries (AA, AAA, 9V)
💸 $10–$20 | 💎 $30–$50
Why it matters: Having the right tools from day one helps you handle surprises, leaks, and quick fixes.
First Week
Kitchen Basics
Plates, cups, and silverware (for 4–6 people)
💸 $30–$50 | 💎 $100–$200
Pots, pans, and cooking tools
💸 $60–$100 | 💎 $150–$300
Coffee maker or kettle
💸 $20–$40 | 💎 $100–$300
Basic pantry items (salt, oil, spices)
💸 $20–$40 | 💎 $60–$100
Why it matters: A stocked kitchen makes your new space feel like home and saves money fast, especially when the takeout budget starts to run low.
Cleaning & Maintenance
Broom, dustpan, and mop
💸 $25–$40 | 💎 $70–$120
All-purpose cleaner & sponges
💸 $10–$15 | 💎 $25–$40
Trash cans & liners
💸 $15–$25 | 💎 $60–$100
Paper towels, rags, and cleaning gloves
💸 $10–$20 | 💎 $30–$50
Why it matters: A clean home stays healthy and stress-free.
First Month: Living & Comfort Upgrades
Couch or seating area
💸 $200–$400 | 💎 $700–$1,500
Pro Tip: Measure room sizes and doorways first. You don’t want any surprises when moving new furniture in.
Wall art, curtains, and rugs
💸 $50–$100 | 💎 $200–$400
Pro Tip: For affordable, travel-inspired wall art, check out our website!
TV or entertainment setup
💸 $200–$300 | 💎 $600–$1,200
Why it matters: Once you’re settled, it’s time to make your home cozy and personal.
Optional but Awesome: Quality of Life Add-ons
Smart thermostat
💸 $30–$50 | 💎 $150–$250
Indoor plants
💸 $10–$20 | 💎 $40–$100
Organizational bins
💸 $20–$30 | 💎 $60–$100
Why it matters: These little extras make everyday living smoother and happier.
Check out this interactive checklist to help you keep track of what you have!
Final Tip
The goal of this list is to help you have your essentials for a new home ready, helping you settle in faster and feel more comfortable from day one. Whether you start with budget-friendly basics or choose long-lasting quality items, what matters most is creating a space that feels like you. Take it one step at a time and enjoy the process!
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