First Apartment Shopping List

Clemson Apartment Shopping List

College Student

Whether it’s your first apartment or just your first time living in off-campus housing, this list is here to give you some ideas of what you might want to pick up before move-in. Every space is different, and some apartments come more furnished than others, so take this as a flexible guide to get started. You definitely don’t need to buy everything on this list—but these are great suggestions to help you feel prepped and cozy in your new place!

Kitchen Essentials

  • Cutlery set (forks, spoons, knives)
  • Knife set
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Pots and pans
  • Tupperware containers
  • Spatula
  • Kitchen scissors
  • Dish drying rack
  • Silverware drawer organizer
  • Toaster
  • Air fryer
  • Kitchen trash can
  • Paper towel holder
  • Cups, plates, and bowls
  • Mixing bowls
  • Can opener
  • Cutting board
  • Oven mitts or pot holders
  • Water Purifier

Bathroom Setup

  • Bath mat
  • Towels (bath and hand towels)
  • Shower curtain & hooks
  • Shower shelves
  • Soap dispenser
  • Toothbrush holder
  • Bathroom trash can
  • Wall art
  • Under-sink storage or small drawers
  • Bathroom cart or rolling organizer
  • Plunger & toilet brush set

Living Room

  • Rug
  • Throw pillows & blankets
  • Coffee table or end table decor
  • Floor or table lamp
  • Additional seating (like a beanbag or ottoman)
  • Wall art or posters
  • TV (if not included)

Bedroom Basics

  • Bed sheets (make sure you double check what size bed your apartment comes with)
  • Comforter
  • Pillows + pillowcases
  • Blanket
  • Mattress topper
  • Nightstand
  • Desk & desk chair (if not already furnished)
  • Lamp
  • Rug
  • Full-length mirror
  • Wall decor or photos to personalize your space

Cleaning Supplies

  • Broom & dustpan
  • Mop or Swiffer
  • Vacuum (especially if you have carpet)
  • Laundry detergent
  • Stain remover
  • Steamer or hot iron
  • Bleach or disinfectant spray
  • Windex or glass cleaner
  • Sponges & dish soap
  • Paper towels
  • Disinfectant wipes

Closet & Laundry

  • Hangers
  • Small storage bins or cubes (perfect for walk-in closets!)
  • Plastic drawer organizer or under-bed storage
  • Shoe rack
  • Laundry hamper or basket
  • Drying rack

Pro Tip: Start a group chat with your roommates before move-in to coordinate who’s bringing what for shared spaces like the kitchen and living room—this way you won’t end up with 3 toasters and no trash can.


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