3 Essential Buys For Your First Apartment That Are Often Overlooked
Moving into your first apartment can be extremely overwhelming. It’s confusing figuring out what items are needed immediately and what things can wait. If you scour the internet, you will find a plethora of checklists containing almost all of the items one might need in their apartment. Some items are obvious, such as a bed, couch, or TV. Others are more niche, like a mirror or clothes hangers.
However, after living in my first apartment for about 10 months now, I’ve found that I am in desperate need of a few items that were not included in the checklists. To be fair, there are so many factors that go into maintaining your own living space. We can’t rely on the internet to prepare us for everything.
The items below are must-haves in my opinion — items that are often glossed over.
1. Fire Extinguisher
I had to learn this the hard way. One second I thought I was broiling garlic chicken, and the next second my oven was in flames. Considering I had an oil-based fire on my hands, dumping water on it wasn't an option. I was lucky enough that the fire eventually went out on its own, but the whole time I was thinking, "Why don't I have a fire extinguisher in here?"
If you aren't on the clumsier side, then this might seem like an unnecessary buy. It's understandable that this household safety staple is overlooked during apartment shopping — fire extinguishers are pretty bulky and their bright red frames can look out of place in a small apartment. However, accidents happen, and you'd rather be over-prepared than underprepared. It only takes one rogue candle or one overheated power socket to set things a-blazing.
If the traditional extinguisher is too much of an eyesore, you can buy smaller versions for a reasonable price. They even sell fire retardant in a small can! It might not be the most exciting thing to throw in your shopping cart, but there’s really no excuse for not having one handy.
2. Step Stool
Tall tenants might think this one doesn't apply to them but think again. The average height of an apartment ceiling is 8 feet. There are multiple reasons why one might need to reach that height: hanging up LED lights, changing smoke alarm batteries, hanging art, the list goes on.
While you might have the arm span to reach the highest points of your first apartment, it can be uncomfortable to hold your arms above your head for long periods of time. Not to mention, being at eye level with the surface results in more accurate measurements. That means anything you might hang up will be more likely to be straight.
Not only is this item of use indoors, but it can also be utilized outside of the apartment. You might need to hang plants or knock down a wasps nest. Reaching above the head for long periods of time becomes increasingly uncomfortable if the weather is bad, and you need to be able to see what you are doing in low lighting. You never know when you will need that extra boost, so having a step stool somewhere in your apartment is essential.
3. Portable Washer & Dryer
If you have a washer/dryer in-unit, then you are one of the lucky ones. For those who are apartment-hunting on a strict budget, the more affordable apartments are usually lacking this vital appliance. Sure, the complex might have a laundry room, but these are often under-equipped. My current complex has one washer and one dryer, which turns laundry days into rather vicious standoffs with my neighbors.
An alternative option would be using the neighborhood laundromat, but it would be nice to avoid an extra trip. Also, due to the times we live in, going to a public place such as the laundromat might serve as a health concern for many. The cleanliness of these facilities is questionable, and they are often packed.
Sure, a portable washer & dryer might be pricey, but it will save you time (and maybe even money) in the long run. Plus, you get the bonus of being able to wash whenever you want — at 6 a.m. or midnight. You also don't have to worry about an impatient laundry room user dumping your wet clothes onto the folding table because you didn't take them out soon enough.
If your first apartment has washer/dryer hookups, I would recommend buying full-sized units if you intend to stay there long term. If not, the portable alternatives are available in different sizes and prices to fit your needs. It can also be a life-saver if the laundry room is out of order.
Most first apartment checklists are composed of items needed for everyday situations. There is usually an "emergencies' section with things such as a flashlight, batteries, and candles. However, the three items above were excluded from every list I came across.
The fire hydrant, step stool, and portable washer + dryer are the first apartment essentials for many different reasons. You never know when something unexpected might happen and you will need one of these nearby!
Opinions and Perspectives
Getting a fire extinguisher was the best decision I made for my apartment.
The portable washer suggestion is interesting but probably not for everyone.
Finally someone mentioned fire safety! So important yet often overlooked.
Not sure about the portable washer but the other suggestions are spot on.
Anyone know where to find affordable mini fire extinguishers? The big ones are too bulky.
These are solid recommendations. Definitely getting a fire extinguisher this weekend.
The portable washer suggestion is genius! Wish I'd thought of that sooner.
My fire extinguisher has been sitting unused for years but I'm still glad I have it.
These suggestions are practical but I think basic kitchen supplies are more important.
Does anyone have recommendations for a good quality step stool that doesn't take up much space?
Got all three items and use them regularly. Great advice for new renters!
The portable washer suggestion is interesting but seems like overkill for a first apartment.
This article probably saved me from a future disaster. Getting a fire extinguisher tomorrow.
Step stools are great but I've found a sturdy folding chair works just as well.
The fire extinguisher advice is crucial. Had a small kitchen fire and was so grateful to have one.
My portable washer broke after six months. Stick to the laundry room or laundromat.
Really appreciate the practical advice here. Adding these to my moving checklist.
Just ordered a fire extinguisher after reading this. Can't believe I didn't have one before.
Anyone else think the step stool suggestion is a bit unnecessary? I just use a chair.
The portable washer changed my life! No more quarterly trips to the laundromat.
These are great suggestions but let's not forget about basic security items like door stops and window locks.
Cannot stress enough how important that fire extinguisher is. Saved my kitchen last month.
I'm surprised a basic tool kit didn't make the list. It's been essential in my apartment.
The fire extinguisher suggestion is spot on. Mine just saved me from a potential disaster.
Those portable washers sound interesting. Anyone know if they use a lot of electricity?
Love the practical advice here. Wish I'd known this when I got my first place.
The article makes some good points but I think a basic tool kit is more important than a step stool.
These are good tips but I'd add a plunger to the list. Trust me, you don't want to need one and not have it.
My portable washer has saved me so much money on laundromat trips. Worth every penny.
I use my step stool to reach the top of my closet. Such a simple but useful item.
The fire extinguisher tip is great but don't forget to check the expiration date regularly!
Wonder if those portable washers actually clean clothes well enough? Seems too good to be true.
Totally agree about the fire extinguisher. Had a small kitchen fire last year and was so glad I had one.
Anyone know where to find affordable portable washers? The ones I've seen are really expensive.
Just moved into my first place and this list is really helpful. Adding these to my shopping list!
The step stool suggestion is brilliant. Use mine for decorating during holidays too.
While these are good suggestions, I think basic cleaning supplies are more essential for first-time renters.
Been using a portable washer for two years now. Best investment ever for my small apartment.
That grease fire story is terrifying! Ordering a fire extinguisher online right now.
The fire safety tip is crucial. I'm actually shocked more rental agreements don't require tenants to have one.
A portable washer sounds great in theory but where do you even put it in a tiny apartment?
I wish I'd read this before moving into my first place. Learned about the fire extinguisher the hard way too.
Never considered a step stool until I needed to change my smoke detector battery. Now it's essential.
Has anyone tried those spray can fire extinguishers? Are they as effective as the regular ones?
Got a mini fire extinguisher for my kitchen and it fits perfectly under the sink. Doesn't look as ugly as the big ones.
My landlord actually requires us to have a fire extinguisher. I thought it was annoying at first but now I get it.
The step stool recommendation is underrated. I'm 6'2" and still find myself needing one occasionally.
These are good tips but let's be real, most first apartments have such tight budgets that a portable washer isn't feasible.
I bought a portable washer last year and it's been life-changing! No more fighting for machines in the laundry room.
Interesting article but I think a first aid kit should've made the list too.
The fire extinguisher tip is crucial. My friend lost most of her kitchen to a small fire that could have been prevented.
I've had my step stool for years and it's probably the most useful thing I own. Great for changing light bulbs too!
Actually disagree about the portable washer. They're expensive and take up valuable space in a small apartment.
Living in a studio apartment now and that step stool suggestion is spot on. I use mine almost daily to reach my storage spaces.
That fire extinguisher story gave me chills. I'm checking my kitchen right now to see if I have one!
I think the portable washer idea is a bit extreme. Most apartment complexes have decent laundry facilities, in my experience.
The article missed one crucial item - a basic tool kit! You'd be surprised how often you need a screwdriver or hammer.
Never thought about a portable washer before but that's actually genius. Anyone tried the smaller countertop versions?
I can totally relate to the fire extinguisher story! Had a similar scary moment with a grease fire in my kitchen last month. Definitely getting one ASAP.