Moving into off-campus housing is an exciting milestone in any student’s life. It signifies newfound independence, a chance to create a home away from home, and an opportunity to curate your living space according to your personal preferences. However, as thrilling as it may be, furnishing and equipping an off-campus apartment can be a daunting task. With countless options available and a limited budget, it’s essential to make wise decisions when deciding what to buy.
In this article, we will guide you through the essential items you should consider purchasing for your off-campus apartment, ensuring a comfortable and functional living space that reflects your style and meets your everyday needs.
Things You Need for Your Off-Campus Apartment
Kitchen
Making sure that you utilize the kitchen can save you a lot of money. It is important for your health and your pockets to learn how to cook. Regardless of whether you already know how to cook or want to learn, this is the perfect opportunity.
Some items that are a must in the kitchen of your first apartment are:
- Silverware Set
- Dishes (Cups, Bowls, Plates)
- Pots and Pans
- Tupperware
- Microwave (If not already included in the apartment)
- Oven Mitts
- Kitchen Knives
- Cutting Board
- Strainer
- Sponges and Dish Soap
- Mixing Bowls
- Paper Towel Holder
- Hand Towels
- Drying Rack
- Table and Chairs (For an eating area)
Bedroom
Your bedroom can be a safe space and the place where you are most comfortable. Letting loose can be hard with lots of stress on your shoulders.
It is vital to have these items in the bedroom of your off-campus apartment to help make a cozy home, perfect for relieving stress:
- Bedsheets
- Mattress and Bed Frame
- Pillows
- Hangers
- Night Stand
- Dresser
- Diffuser
- Charging Station
Bathroom
It is important to make sure you have a clean place to get ready and get ready to take on the world. Oftentimes, these essentials can be forgotten by the change of not living in a dorm room.
Here are some of those essentials you might not have thought about:
- Shower Curtain
- Towels
- Hand Soap
- Hygiene Needs
- Toothbrush Holder
- Toilet Paper
- Rug
- Air Freshener
- Plunger
- Medicine
- First Aid Kit
Common Area
Most apartments have a common area to turn into whatever your heart desires. It is best to make the most out of this area so that friends, or family, can spend time with you when they visit you. This can also just be a place of relaxation or entertainment.
It is important to have:
- Couch
- Coffee Table
- TV
- Blankets
- Pillows
- Entertainment Center
- Rug
Cleaning Supplies
Although this is not the most thought-about category, it is crucial to keep your apartment clean. Setting a day to reset and clean up everything can help with hygiene and your mental health.
This is a list of supplies that will help you achieve that clean house goal:
- Vacuum Cleaner
- Broom and Dustpan
- Mop and Floor Cleaner
- Laundry Detergent / Tide Pods
- Dryer Sheets
- All-Purpose Cleaner
- Toilet Cleaner
- Toilet Brush
- Window Cleaner
- Paper Towels and Rags
- Duster and Dusting Spray
Miscellaneous
Miscellaneous includes items you just stuffed into a random closet or area in your apartment. They have no designated area but are not at the level of being thrown into a “junk” drawer.
Some other essentials that are musts in your very first apartment might include:
- Extension Cords
- Tool Box (Basic Necessities)
- Extra Linens
- Outlet Extender / Power Strip
- Laundry Basket
- Iron and Ironing Board
We hope this article helps you find everything you need for your off-campus apartment!
Remember to prioritize essential items such as furniture, kitchenware, and bedding, while also leaving room for your personal touches and decorations. Happy shopping and enjoy the journey of transforming your off-campus apartment into a space that reflects your unique personality and enhances your daily life.
If you need summer storage for your belongings between semesters, consider using Collegeboxes to simplify your college moving process.