What Is the First Thing You Buy After Moving a New Place?

The first thing you should buy after moving into a new place is toilet paper. Yes, really! While it might not be the most exciting purchase, nothing beats the panic of realizing you forgot this basic need after a long moving day.

Moving into a new home is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. You have empty rooms to fill and countless items to buy. This guide will help you figure out what to buy first, so you can settle in quickly and comfortably. We'll cover everything from day-one must-haves to items you can add over time.

Your Day-One Survival Kit

The Absolute Must-Haves

When you first walk into your new place, you need these items right away:

Toilet Paper and Basic Toiletries Pack toilet paper in your "open first" box. Things like a shower curtain, extra toilet paper, and cleaning supplies are easy to overlook. You don't want to find out the hard way after a long day of moving that you're not able to shower in your new bathroom! Bring soap, shampoo, and a toothbrush too.

Cleaning Supplies Your first step to moving into your new home will likely be to clean every nook and crevice. Get all-purpose cleaner, paper towels, and basic cleaning wipes. Even new homes need cleaning after movers leave.

A Place to Sleep A mattress should be number one on your list after finding that first apartment. Your life doesn't stop just because you've moved, so having a comfortable place to lie down at the end of the day is a must. Even if you put your mattress on the floor at first, having a bed ready makes your first night much better.

Quick Comfort Items

These items help you feel at home right away:

• Hand soap for your bathroom and kitchen
• Towels for showering (pack these where you can find them easily)
• Basic food and drinks like bread, peanut butter, and water
• Phone charger and power strips
• Flashlight in case you can't find light switches or need extra light

Smart Shopping for Your First Week

The Bedroom Basics

Your bedroom should be your first priority after the essentials. Moving day is stressful, so a comfortable bed on your first night will be necessary!

What You Need Right Away:

• Mattress (buy new if possible)
• Basic sheets and pillows
• One blanket or comforter
• Curtains or blinds for privacy

What Can Wait:

• Bed frame (though it makes things feel more like home)
• Dresser or nightstand
• Decorative pillows
• Fancy bedding sets

Kitchen Must-Haves

You could stick with paper plates and cups until you buy a full dish set, but we recommend going ahead and purchasing a few of these items before you move in.

Week One Kitchen Items:

• A few plates, bowls, and cups
• Basic silverware
• One pot and one pan
• Can opener and bottle opener
• Coffee maker or kettle
• Dish soap and sponges

Smart Tip: Start with paper plates for the first few days while you unpack. It's one less thing to worry about when you're tired from moving.

Bathroom Setup

The bathroom is often forgotten, but it's where you'll start and end each day. Toilet paper, toothbrush, toothpaste, soap (for hand, body, or face), shampoo, conditioner, and other personal care items.

Must-Have Items:

• Shower curtain and liner
• Bath towels and hand towels
• Bath mat (so you don't slip)
• Basic toiletries
• Small trash can
• Extra toilet paper (keep some handy for guests)

Safety First: Don't Forget These Items

Basic Safety Equipment

Safety essentials should always be a priority when moving into a new home. Keeping your family safe and protecting your property are crucial steps to take as you settle in.

Essential Safety Items:

• First aid kit with bandages and basic medical supplies
• Fire extinguisher for the kitchen area
• Flashlights and extra batteries
• Smoke detector batteries (test and replace if needed)
• Carbon monoxide detector if your home uses gas

Security Basics

Change the locks or rekey them right away. You never know who has copies of the old keys. Also consider:

• Door chain or security bar
• Basic tools for small repairs
• Emergency contact list

Cleaning Supplies That Actually Matter

The Essential Cleaning Kit

An all-purpose cleaner can work on countertops, bathroom surfaces, floors, and even some appliances. Look for a biodegradable or plant-based cleaner to be safe for kids and pets.

Basic Cleaning Supplies:

• All-purpose cleaner
• Glass cleaner for windows and mirrors
• Toilet bowl cleaner and brush
• Vacuum or broom and dustpan
• Mop and bucket
• Microfiber cloths
• Rubber gloves

Pro Tip: Buy a cleaning caddy to carry supplies from room to room. It saves time and keeps everything organized.

Don't Forget the Basics

You might be surprised by just how much trash you accumulate in your first couple days of being in a new place. Box wrappings. Plastic packaging. Wet paper towels. Microwave meal boxes.

Get trash cans for each room and plenty of trash bags. You'll create more mess than you expect while unpacking.

Living Room Comfort

Start Simple

Your living room doesn't need to be perfect right away. Focus on basic comfort:

Week One Living Room:

• One comfortable chair or small couch
• Side table for drinks and snacks
• Basic lighting (floor lamp or table lamp)
• Extension cords and power strips

Can Wait:

• Coffee table
• TV and entertainment center
• Decorative items
• Extra seating

Not every apartment comes with the best overhead lighting, if any at all. Some warm lighting could make your space that much more comfortable.

Budget-Smart Shopping Tips

Where to Shop First

Dollar Stores and Discount Retailers Great for cleaning supplies, basic toiletries, and kitchen basics. You can find paper towels, soap, and even simple cooking tools.

Thrift Stores Perfect for dishes, furniture, and household items. Check them first before buying new.

Big Box Stores Best for mattresses, appliances, and bulk items like toilet paper and cleaning supplies.

What to Buy New vs. Used

Always Buy New:

• Mattresses and pillows
• Toilet paper and toiletries
• Cleaning supplies
• Undergarments and personal items

Good to Buy Used:

• Furniture (chairs, tables, dressers)
• Dishes and kitchen tools
• Books and decorative items
• Some appliances (if they work well)

Planning Your Shopping Trips

Week One Shopping List

Day 1 (Survival Basics):

• Toilet paper
• Hand soap
• Towels
• Basic toiletries
• Cleaning supplies
• Simple food items

Days 2-3 (Comfort Items):

• Mattress and basic bedding
• A few dishes and utensils
• Shower curtain
• Trash cans and bags

Week 1 (Settling In):

• Basic furniture
• Kitchen essentials
• Lighting
• Storage solutions

Making It Feel Like Home

An area rug is an especially great investment if you have a small or open-concept type of space. They're an easy way to make your home reflect your style and can break up a room so that it feels like a multi-functional space.

Small touches make a big difference:

• A houseplant or fresh flowers
• Your favorite photos
• A cozy throw blanket
• Candles or air fresheners

Storage Solutions

Smart Storage for Small Spaces

Many new homes don't have enough storage. Plan for this early:

Under-Bed Storage Use boxes or storage bags for out-of-season clothes and extra linens.

Over-Door Organizers Great for bathrooms, closets, and pantries.

Multi-Purpose Furniture Ottoman with storage, bed with drawers, or dining table with shelves.

What NOT to Buy Right Away

Items That Can Wait

Don't feel pressured to buy everything at once. These items can wait:

• Expensive electronics
• Fancy kitchen gadgets
• Decorative artwork
• Multiple sets of dishes
• Expensive furniture
• Specialty cleaning products

Focus on Function First

Don't hesitate to infuse your personality into your bedroom – Your bedroom should reflect your style while providing a calming environment. But remember, function comes before style when you're first moving in.

Special Considerations for Different Living Situations

First Apartment

If this is your first place away from home, you might need more basics than you think. Consider getting help from family or friends who might have extra items.

Moving Long Distance

If you're moving far away, it might be cheaper to buy heavy items like furniture and appliances at your new location rather than moving them.

Temporary Housing

If you're not sure how long you'll stay, focus on basics and avoid expensive purchases. Look for local movers who can help with temporary moves.

Moving with Kids

Add child-safety items to your list right away. Cabinet locks, outlet covers, and a basic first aid kit become even more important.

Making Smart Financial Decisions

Budget Planning

Set Priorities List items by importance: needs first, wants second. Stick to needs for the first month.

Shop Sales Many stores have moving sales or back-to-school promotions. Mattresses can be expensive, depending on what model you buy, but there are stores that sell them at affordable prices. If you really want to save, wait for a sale. They're especially popular around the holidays.

Use What You Have Before buying new, check what you already own. Can you repurpose items from your old place?

Avoiding Common Mistakes

Don't Buy Everything at Once It's tempting to want a fully furnished home right away, but this gets expensive fast. Buy items as you need them.

Measure First You'll need a hammer to hang up frames and wall decor. A screwdriver and wrench will come in handy, too. These may be needed from your first day in your new apartment, such as to mount your TV or assemble your new furniture. Always measure spaces before buying furniture.

Quality vs. Price Some items are worth spending more on (mattress, basic tools), while others can be cheap initially (dishes, decorative items).

Getting Help with Your Move

Professional Moving Services

If you're in the Edmonton area, consider professional help. Professional moving services can make your transition much smoother. They can help with packing, moving, and even some basic setup.

Community Resources

• Check local community groups for free or cheap items
• Ask friends and family for items they no longer need
• Look for neighborhood garage sales
• Join local Facebook marketplace groups

Creating Your Personal Checklist

Customize This List

Every living situation is different. Use this guide as a starting point, but adjust based on:

• Your budget
• Your living space size
• Your lifestyle needs
• Items you already own
• Local weather and climate

Stay Organized

Keep a running list on your phone or paper. Check off items as you buy them. This helps you avoid buying duplicates and ensures you don't forget important items.

Final Thoughts

Moving into a new place should be exciting, not stressful. Start with the basics like toilet paper, cleaning supplies, and a comfortable place to sleep. Then gradually add items that make your space feel like home.

Remember, you don't need everything right away. Focus on what you actually need to live comfortably, then add nice-to-have items over time. This approach is easier on your budget and less overwhelming.

The most important thing is having a safe, clean place where you can rest and recharge. Everything else can come later. Whether you're moving across town or across the country, taking it one step at a time will help you create a home you love.

If you're planning a move in the Edmonton area, check out our moving checklist for more helpful tips, or contact our professional moving team for assistance with your upcoming move.