subject: What Do I Need For My First Apartment? [print this page] CongratulationsCongratulations. You finally made a decision and selected your first apartment. Now what? You know you need furniture: a bed, a couch, coffee table, etc. But what about those other things you need - the ones you haven't thought of. BMSI Apartments has found that these are the items that many people forget to buy when they move into their first apartment.
Dish Rack - Although your apartment will have a dishwasher, you will use a dish rack. Most people wash their pots and pans by hand and you will need an easy place to dry them. You can also use it for storage when you don't want to put items away.
Pots & Pans - You probably remembered you need dishes, and paper even works fine. However, you will need pots and pans to make any meal or snack on the stove and/ or oven. Even if you only heat up canned soup in the microwave, you will still need to put it into some type of larger container. Don't bother going out and buying a matching set of pots and pans. Start with purchasing one flat baking pan and one sauce pan. Then add pieces as you grow your culinary skills.
Utensils - Plastic utensils work great for picnics but have you ever tried to cut a piece of steak with them.. Invest in a few real forks, spoons, knives and steak knives. And nowadays they do not even have to match. Eclectic is in!
Can Opener - Invest in a good old fashioned can opener. Even if you purchase an electric one or one that runs on batteries, the day will come when you need to open a can and the electric can opener is broken and you have no batteries in the house. Trust me, this may be the best $2-3 investment you make. As an added bonus, take it next time you go camping. It's usually the one item everyone forgets - and everyone will be happy they invited you.
Cutting Board - So you think cutting boards are for vegetables and you don't eat veggies. Buy one anyway. You can use it to make sandwiches and cut bread. Plus, it makes an easy placemat when you counter is messy.
Trash Cans - One in the kitchen is not enough. Buy a couple and place them in all rooms, especially the bathroom. You will use them.
Refrigerator Magnets - You will need somewhere to put all those takeout menu's that you will collect. And you will need a place to put important numbers, pictures, etc. You will always find it on the refrigerator and you will be happy when you do not have to rummage through your kitchen junk drawer. Choose magnets that are fun and whimsical. Select you favorite cartoon character or purchase a magnet from each trip you take. They're easy and fun and will add some pizazz to your kitchen.
Clothes Hanger - Clothes should go in your closet, not the floor. Clothes hangers will help. Many times you can find them on sale at 10 for $1.00. Buy a few packages so your clothes don't look like you slept in them.
Toilet Bowl Brush & Cleanser - Since this is your first apartment and you mother doens't live with you, you will need to clean your own bathroom. A brush and cleanser will help you accomplish this goal. Your friends that visit will thank you.
Plunger - Trust me you will need one. Need we say more.
And last but not least, a Shower Curtain. They come in basic plain colors or fancy designer fabrics. It's a great way to add some color to your bathroom and change the color scheme whenever you want. You'll be looking at it every morning when you get in the shower before work. It will brighten your day and your mood.
All of these items can be purchased at most any store, from Target to Home Depot to Fry's Supermarket. Add them to your new apartments shopping list. Happy Shopping!
