This site contains affiliate links, view the disclosure for more information.
Looking for the ultimate list of college apartment essentials everyone should have? Here’s a list of everything you’ll need.
Every single college apartment move-in experience Iāve had has been exciting. Sure carrying a crap ton of stuff up the stairs isnāt fun, but itās a new school year, youāre back with your friends, the world is basically your oyster.
This list of college apartment essentials goes into detail on everything you need when moving into a college apartment, from basic decor pieces to that emergency kit youāll need when you least expect it – Iāve covered it all.
All of these miscellaneous items can add up, so if you have roommates I highly recommend splitting the costs or determining whoās going to buy what (Iād go with the latter).
And one more side note before youāre off to the races – if your college apartment is not furnished and youāre on a budget, Facebook Marketplace should be your best friend. Youāll be surprised what you can find.
This post is all about college apartment essentials.
Kitchen Essentials:
Table & Chairs/ Barstools
Going to hit you with a harsh reality to start- bar chairs are hella expensive. I donāt understand it nor do I condone it, but itās the truth. Here are the most affordable bar stools I could find- are they the cutest? No. But theyāre simple and will do the job without being an eyesore.
Pots & Pans
I love the colors and itās everything you could want in every pan. Will save you space and money!!
Dishes & Bowls
When choosing dishes and bowls you can usually get the highest quality and the lowest price when theyāre white so thatās always a safe choice!
Mixing Bowls
These mixing bowls stack well together so you can save a lot of space!
Cups & Mugs & Wine Glasses
Cookie Sheets
Two cooking sheets should do the job- unless youāre a professional chef.
Utensils
Bottle Opener
Gold wine bottle openers are for the good days and the bad days.
Can Opener
Tupperware
Measuring Cups
I have gold measuring cups and theyāre my favorite. I love when I can add cute items to places you wouldnāt normally think to add them!
Blender
If Iām being honest, I want a Vitamix. But theyāre hella expensive and the Ninja is just as good and wonāt break the bank.
Mixer
Keurig/ Teapot
Toaster or Toaster Oven
My sophomore year my roommate brought a toaster oven with her for our kitchen, and Iāve never looked at toasters the same. Toaster ovens are one of the most amazing inventions ever and I would take it any day over a regular toaster.
Microwave
Oven Mitts
Dish Towels
I used to have white dish towels and that was a mistake. When they stain they look horrible. Itās awful.
Dish Drying Rack
If you donāt have a dishwasher (itās okay Iāve been there too) then a nice dish rack is a college apartment essentials must-have.
Cleaning Sponges
Love this handle cleaning sponge. You donāt have to get your hands all wet and gross.
Paper Towels & Paper Towel Stand
Trash Can
I mean, youāre going to need a trash can. I prefer going for a metal one, you can do the cheapest you can find. I think they look much better than expensive plastic ones!
Water Pitcher with Filter
This is essential. Always.
Ice Trays
Iāve never been an ice cube girl, but if you are these seem to be the best ones because you donāt have to smash them on the counter. Theyāre silicone at the bottom which makes it really easy to get out the ice cubes!
Living Room:
Couch
I honestly had a lot of trouble finding a nice, cheap couch! This is where the Facebook market will be your best friend.
Coffee Table
Coffee tables will change the way your living room looks. Stay simple and let the decor you put on top do the job for you.
TV
This TV has the best reviews!
TV Stand
Floor Lamp
Love this gold floor lamp. Will make your space look high end!
Curtains & Curtain Rod
Throw Pillows
You donāt need 300 throw pillows. Have a few and theyāll make an impact I promise!
Blankets
Rug
Bedroom:
Mattress
Bed Frame
Bed frames are another Facebook Market search that is worth your while. Bed frames can be expensive and your best bet is to purchase second-hand.
Pillows
Duvet & Cover
Sheets
Dresser
Nightstands
Desk
I love a plain white desk. I think itās the best for a bedroom and I always use my desk for school and doing my makeup!
Desk Chair
Curtains/ Blinds
Hangers
Velvet hangers are the way to go, always. Plastic hangers are bulky, clothing falls off of them- theyāre just a bad idea.
Mirror
In love with this arched mirror. I want it for myself!
Desk Lamp
Clothing
Bring your clothing. Try not to bring your whole closet or youāll get overwhelmed. Pick your favorite places!
Bathroom:
Bath Towels
Hand Towels
Bath Mat
Shower Curtain
Shower Curtain Liner & Hooks
Cleaning Supplies
Cleaning supplies are a college apartment essentials must-have that some people actually forget to buy….!
Shower Organizer
Shower organizers are a necessity when you have roommates. You can each have a shelf and keep your things separate and organized!
Toilet Plunger & Brush
Toilet Paper & Toilet Paper Stand
Blow Dryer
My favorite blow dryer, ever.