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You’ve just bought your new house, and now is the time to move in. However, chances are that you’ll be lacking in a lot of basic supplies when you’re first getting settled. Whether you’re upgrading from an apartment or moving out for the first time, it’s imperative that you remember all of the essentials necessary to keep your life running smoothly.
What to Buy for a New House: 10 Items You Need in Your New Home
Fortunately, we have a list of crucial items to buy when moving into your new home. Don’t wait until you need it to go out and buy it – some of these things can lead to some less than desirable situations.
#1 Paper Products
Are all of your new bathrooms fully stocked? Do you have sufficient toilet paper, kleenex, and paper towels for your home? If not, that should be the first thing you purchase. If you’ve ever been in a bathroom without paper, you know why this should be at the top of your list.
Additional paper products could be things like napkins and paper plates as well. Even if you have dishes in your boxes, it could be a few days before you’re able to get to them. Thus, having a stack of disposable plates and silverware is always a good idea, unless you plan on eating out for every meal.
#2 Cleaning Products
While your new home won’t be a pigsty, that doesn’t mean that it’s immaculate, either. In some cases, you may want to pay a professional for a deep clean, but usually, you can take care of any cleaning needs yourself.
Buy products that can help you clean up your bathroom, your kitchen, and your bedrooms. Since these are the rooms you’ll be using first, it’s essential that you have the right equipment to get them spotless as soon as possible.
Also, don’t forget the accessories necessary to clean your new house properly. If you don’t have a mop, buy one! Same goes for scrubbing sponges, cleaning rags, and toilet brushes. Go into every room and make a list of things you’ll need to get the room clean from top to bottom.
#3 Lights and Fixtures
While many modern homes have light bulbs installed, sometimes you will have to provide them yourselves. Also, many newer models may just have a bulb in the middle of the ceiling without any kind of fixture over it.
Another thing to remember is that the built-in lights may not be sufficient for every room. When night falls on the first day, you want to pay attention to the dark areas of your home and come up with some solutions. Floor lamps are always a good idea, as are LED bulbs.
#4 Shelves and Organizers
When moving, you’ll come to realize how much stuff you have. Unfortunately, that also means that you need places to put that stuff unless you’re okay with everything sitting on the floor. Although you shouldn’t rush to buy furniture, purchasing a few end tables or bookcases can be a great place to start.
Overall, you want to be able to organize your living spaces as quickly as possible so that you don’t have boxes lying everywhere for weeks or months after you’ve moved. Nothing can be quite as stressful as constant reminders that you’re not fully moved in yet.
#5 Seating
How many chairs do you have? Chances are that it’s not enough. Although you may want to wait to buy furniture that will really tie each room together, you still need to have a place to sit.
One recommendation that we have is buying cheap lawn furniture first. Not only will this be kind to your budget, but you will still be able to use them after you’ve found something more permanent. Even if you don’t have a yard, it’s always useful to have folding chairs for when guests come over, so you will want them nonetheless.
#6 Window Accessories
Did your home come with drapes? If not, then you have to contend with the fact that neighbors can see you at all hours of the day. One of your first trips should be to find drapes and curtains that can help provide you with some privacy.
At first, you can get away with low-quality hanging materials, but buy drapes that you want to keep. It’s easier to find and upgrade to a better hanging rod than it is to get rid of old, dingy curtains.
#7 Appliances
What to buy for a new house? Don’t forget small appliances! Although many new homes come with the basics (fridge, oven, etc.), smaller devices are usually up to the homeowner. Also, if your new living quarter doesn’t have a refrigerator, that’s something you’ll need ASAP.
Some appliances that you’ll want shortly after your move can include a microwave, coffee maker (or kettle), and a blender. Also be sure to test the ones that came with the place so that you can be sure that they won’t need replacing anytime soon. If so, then plan on upgrading as soon as possible.
#8 Kitchen Essentials
While eating takeout for the first few days can be convenient, it’s not something you want to continue doing as you get settled. However, how many kitchen utensils do you currently own? Buying the basics like pots, pans, plates, and glasses will go a long way toward helping you feel like you’re really at home.
Another thing to consider is buying cabinet covers to keep all of your new dishes away from potentially dirty surfaces. Also, it can make cleaning them much easier in the long run.
#9 Plants
Until you can finally fill your home with all of the furniture and accessories you want, one way to keep your rooms from looking bare is to purchase plants. If you’re afraid that you’ll kill them, you can either buy species that are water-resilient, or you can go fake. Either way, you’ll spruce up your home without having to invest a ton of money, and they’re easy to move around as you fill the space.
#10 Decorations
Finally, you’ll want to buy things that help make your home more personal. While you don’t have to go all-out yet, you do want a few accent pieces that will draw the eye. If you have blank white walls, adding a splash of color with some artwork or a cute figurine will make the space look less sterile.
If you need help with your move, be sure to contact On the Go Movers. As a reliable moving and storage service in the greater Seattle area for over 10 years, they can make your transition to your new home go as smoothly as possible. Contact us today!