Best of … things you need for an apartment

Contributed by Rachelle Dawson, Catalogs.com Top 10 Guru

Maybe you’re off to college or getting ready to start your first full-time job.

Moving into your own apartment under these circumstances means you need to set up your home and get on with your responsibilities. But if it’s your first time on your own, how do you know what things you need for an apartment and what gadgets will end up sitting unused?

BrylaneHome

A Little Bit of Everything

Setting up your first home can be expensive. There is a difference between things you need for an apartment and things you’d like to have. Focus on the essentials first, including bedding, window coverings, a basic pot and pan set, everyday dishes, bath towels, and adequate storage for clothing. Brylane Home offers all of these in a range of prices and styles. If you intend to add onto your collections as your budget allows, make sure to choose basic styles that will easily mix and match.

Fresh Finds

For the Entertainer

At the same time, if you really enjoy entertaining, don’t be afraid to splurge on a couple showpieces. Fresh Finds sells all manner of cooking tools, party sets, and space-saving kitchen organizers. Whether you want to throw an apartment-warming party or just make a home for every item in your kitchen, Fresh Finds can help you achieve your goal.

Hoover

A Cleaner for Every Floor

Though cleaning isn’t everyone’s favorite topic, we all have to do it. Especially before and after guests arrive and depart. A floor cleaner is one of the things you need for an apartment. Hoover offers a cleaning appliance for every kind of floor. Whether your floors are carpet, hardwood, tile, or a mix, you can shop from a variety of appliances that will help you keep your apartment in great shape.

Cooking Enthusiast

Cream or Sugar?

If you drink tea or coffee, there are certain things you need for an apartment. You may not be able to make it through the day otherwise. Cooking Enthusiast offers a line of hot drink prepware, along with more general cookware, cutlery, pottery, and other culinary-related items. And when you visit the website, don’t forget to check out the section full of free recipes.

Half Price Drapes

No Naked Windows

Some apartments may come furnished with blinds or other window coverings. Others may not. If yours is in the latter category, window treatments are definitely one of the things you need for an apartment, either in a rural or urban setting. Window treatments not only dress up your windows but also protect your privacy. For a selection of curtains and accompanying hardware, shop Half Price Drapes.

Lamps Plus

Meeting Your Lighting Needs

Depending on the light fixtures already installed in your apartment, you may or may not need additional lighting. Especially in older apartments, you may find overhead lighting lacking. If so, you’ll need to supplement with lamps. Inadequate lighting is not one of the things you need for an apartment. Lamps Plus sells table lamps, floor lamps, desk lamps, and shades. Styles range from traditional to modern.