Moving into a new house is super exciting, but it’s totally normal to feel a bit stressed with all the tasks and reminders piling up. Making a list of essentials is a solid way to stay on top of things and settle in smoothly.
Sure, we all know about the obvious stuff like utensils and a broom, but there are plenty of other small but important things that people tend to forget. To make it easier for you, here are some must-have categories of home essentials to keep in mind when you're shopping before or right after the big move.
1. Cleaning supplies
Cleaning supplies are a must. Some people like to keep their cleaning supplies in a basket for easy transport, while others prefer to keep room-specific cleaning supplies in a handy spot within each space. Whichever you prefer, these essential items don’t change.
- Multi-purpose cleaner
- Disinfecting wipes
- Toilet bowl cleaner
- Toilet brush
- Toilet plunger
- Dish sponge
- Scrub brush
- Cleaning gloves
- Vacuum
- Duster
- Microfiber towels
- Squeegee
- Bucket
- Mop
- Broom
- Dustpan
- Glass cleaner
2. Kitchen Supplies
The kitchen is where much of the work happens in a home, and therefore it requires the most tools and items to function smoothly. Let’s look at the key items you need for your kitchen.
- Frying pans with lids, small and large
- Saucepan
- Pots, small and medium
- Stock pan
- Cutting boards
- Knife set
- Kitchen scissors
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheet
- Casserole dish
- Cooking spoon
- Spatula
- Whisk
- Electric mixer
- Plates
- Bowls
- Cutlery
- Glassware
- Mugs
- Kettle
- Can opener
- Corkscrew
- Vegetable peeler
- Cheese grater
- Colander
- Strainer
- Food storage containers
3. Laundry Needs
Besides detergent, having some proper laundry supplies will make cleaning your clothes and removing stains easier and hassle-free.
- Laundry detergent
- Stain remover
- Dryer sheets
- Drying rack for items that require air-drying
- Dryer balls
- Iron
- Ironing board
- Laundry baskets
4. Storage and Organization
Keeping your items organized and stored properly is a good practice for ensuring items stay in good working order and can be found easily. Here are some essential storage and organization items to keep cabinets and closets clean, neat, and efficient.
Kitchen
- Cupboard organizers
- Silverware trays
- Spice rack
- Basket or container for cooking utensils
Bathroom
- Caddy for bathroom cleaning supplies
- Toothbrush holder
- Small baskets for miscellaneous bathroom items, such as lotions, creams, brushes, and hair accessories
- Toilet plunger and brush holder
- Basket or holder for extra toilet paper rolls
Closets
- Hangers
- Hamper
- Baskets for small items such as socks
- Shelves
- Drawer organizers
5. Hardware and Tools
It’s inevitable that every home will need hardware and other tools to complete a planned project or fill an emergency need. By having the right tools on hand, you can more easily complete small repair jobs and home maintenance tasks.- Phillips head screwdriver
- Flat head screwdriver
- Drill
- Nails
- Screws
- Nuts and bolts
- Hammer
- Allen wrench
- Crescent wrench
- Pliers
- Tape measure
- Level
- Scissors
- Duct tape
- Electrical tape
- Clear tape
- Rubber bands
- Super glue
- Tarps
- Bungee cords
- Extension cords
6. Emergency and Safety
Having emergency and safety supplies on hand is a must for any safe home. Keeping these things ready and organized will help alleviate the stress of unexpected small injuries and make any inconveniences, like power outages, less of a hassle.
- First-aid kit
- Band-aids
- Antibiotic ointment
- Gauze
- Butterfly closures
- Cloth tape
- Finger splint
- Tweezers
- Flashlights
- Emergency candles
- Bottled water
- Canned food
- Batteries
- Fire extinguisher
- Carbon monoxide detector
- Smoke alarms
- Matches
- Hand-crank or solar-powered phone charger
