Checklist of Items You’ll Need as Soon as You Move In to a New Home

Even with the help of friends and family, you probably won’t be able to unpack everything and set up your new home in a single day. In fact, according to a 2018 survey by Duck Brand tape, it takes Americans 182 days on average to unpack their final box after moving to a new home. That’s half a year and, by most standards, far too long.

Of course, you’ll need certain products and amenities in order to manage in the meantime. The following are items you’ll want to have at the ready to ensure that the days following your move go as smoothly as possible.

CLEANING SUPPLIES

Hopefully the previous owners have left your new home in tip-top shape. But they haven’t or if the home sat vacant for a while, chances are you’ll need to do some cleaning before you feel comfortable placing your belonging in their new location. In order to make surfaces sparkle, have the following on hand: paper towels, a multi-purpose cleaning spray, a handheld vacuum, sponges and soap, laundry detergent, a dustpan and broom, and toilet bowl cleaner.

TOOLS

From assembling furniture to hanging wall art, you’ll need to have some tools at your disposal. Consider the following: a utility knife to open boxes, a hammer, measuring tape, screwdrivers, a flashlight, and a level.

KITCHEN ITEMS

Buying take-out meals quickly eats up funds you could otherwise put toward decorations or even a house-warming party. To start cooking in your new kitchen, have these gadgets in an easy-to-reach spot: a can and bottle opener, a pot and pan, spatula, an oven mitt and utensils.

BEDROOM COMFORTS

Sleep easy on the first night in this different environment by having your sheets, blankets, pillows, and pajamas ready for use. Preparing a bag with an outfit for the following day can save precious time if you’re dressing for work and don’t want to hunt through boxes.

BATH ESSENTIALS

Waking up in a new home can be exciting but disorienting. Get the day off to a fresh start by hanging a new shower curtain and having clean hand and bath towels as well as your preferred toiletries ready. Be sure to include a bath mat to avoid a potential slip-and-fall situation.

OTHER ITEMS

Keep your energy up while you unpack by having ready-to-eat snacks and water bottles available. Light bulbs, batteries, and a first aid kit may come in handy as well.