Congrats on the move! Whether you’re unpacking boxes in your very first apartment or settling into a forever home, it’s a major milestone. And let’s be honest, between the excitement and the chaos, it’s all too easy to overlook the little things that make a house actually livable.
That’s where this room-by-room guide comes in. It’s packed (pun intended) with everyday new home essentials, often-forgotten basics, and smart upgrades — including pet-friendly picks like a self-cleaning litter box — to help you get settled faster and more comfortably.
Kitchen essentials
Start with the basics so you can cook, clean, and caffeinate without scrambling through boxes. Make sure you’ve got:
- Dishware, utensils, and glasses
- Pots, pans, and cooking essentials like a cutting board, knives, and a colander
- Small appliances (microwave, coffee maker, toaster)
- Pantry staples such as salt, pepper, olive oil, and coffee
- A trash can and liners, plus food storage containers
- Cleaning supplies like sponges, dish soap, and all-purpose spray
- Paper towels and a holder for easy cleanup
Bonus for cat parents: Setting up a tidy feeding zone right away can help your pet adjust to their new surroundings. An automatic pet feeder like Feeder-Robot offers portion-controlled, mess-free meals, perfect for busy mornings and late-night arrivals.
Bathroom basics
There’s nothing worse than realizing you don’t have toilet paper after the first flush. Stock your bathroom with the following right away so it’s functional from day one:
- A shower curtain and liner
- Towels and a bath mat
- Toilet paper and hand soap
- A plunger and toilet brush (you’ll thank yourself later)
- Over-the-door hooks or baskets for extra storage
- A night light for those middle-of-the-night visits
- A small first-aid kit with pain relievers
Living room must-haves
This is where you'll relax at the end of a long moving day, so make it cozy and functional right away.
Start with your big items like the couch, coffee table, and a spot for your TV (whether that’s a stand or wall mount). Don’t forget:
- Extension cords and surge protectors
- An area rug, throw blankets, and coasters
- A small basket or drawer to stash remotes, chargers, and pet toys
If you live with a furry friend, a lint roller or pet hair vacuum can help keep things tidy from the start. Bonus points if you also set up pet furniture like a perch or tunnel to make them feel at home.
Laundry & cleaning supplies
Even if you don’t plan to do laundry right away, having supplies on hand will make things easier when you do. Make sure to pick up:
- Laundry detergent and dryer sheets
- A broom, mop, vacuum, and dustpan
- Cleaning sprays for glass, floors, and general messes
- Sponges, microfiber cloths, gloves, and a bucket
- Extra paper towels, garbage bags, and a small bin for every room
Cat parent tip: Trap litter before it spreads by placing a litter mat underneath or next to the litter box. It’s a small upgrade that makes a big difference in litter tracking.
Entryway & utility area
This high-traffic area can easily become cluttered if you don’t plan ahead. Set it up to work hard for you from day one.
Start with a doormat inside and out to catch dirt and debris. Add a place to hang your keys (hooks or a small rack) and set up a boot tray or shoe rack to contain clutter. You’ll also want to have a flashlight, step stool, and toolkit nearby for quick fixes.
Other items that come in handy:
- Fire extinguisher
- Extra batteries
- Tape measure and screwdriver
Smart upgrades for pet parents
Moving is an adjustment for everyone, pets included. Make it easier on both of you with these smart upgrades:
- Litter-Robot: Automatically scoops after every use, keeping your home cleaner with minimal odors—without daily effort.
- OdorTrap Packs: Neutralize litter box smells, especially helpful in smaller homes or apartments.
- Feeder-Robot: Keeps mealtime on track—even if you’re still figuring out where your bowls are.
- LitterTrap Mat: Keeps litter from tracking all over your floors.
Keep your pet stations in low-traffic corners or on easy-to-clean mats for a setup that’s practical and stress-free.
Final touches & commonly forgotten items
Some of the most overlooked things to buy after moving are the ones that seem small, until you need them. For example:
- Stock up on light bulbs, extension cords, and batteries early on so you're not left in the dark (literally).
- Keep everyday tools like scissors, tape, pens, and a notepad somewhere accessible. Command hooks are great for temporary hanging and organizing while you’re still figuring out where everything goes.
- A shower caddy can bring instant organization to any bathroom, and don’t forget trash bins for bedrooms, offices, and other overlooked spots.
- Test or install smoke detectors if needed, and consider keeping a spare phone charger or two in common areas.
- A subtle air freshener or diffuser can also go a long way in making your space feel fresh and familiar from the start.
Don't forget to check out our move-in checklist for cat owners for additional tips.
FAQ
What do most people forget to buy for a new house?
Toilet plungers, extra trash bins, extension cords, light bulbs, and cleaning supplies are often overlooked during the rush of moving.
How do I make my new house feel like home?
Unpack bedroom and bathroom essentials first so you can sleep and shower in comfort. Stick to familiar routines (especially for your pets), and add familiar scents or sounds, like your favorite candle or a calming playlist, to settle in.
What are the first things to unpack in a new house?
Start with bathroom essentials, bedding, kitchen basics, and your coffee setup. You’ll thank yourself on morning one.
