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 I’ve had has been exciting. Sure carrying a crap ton of stuff up the stairs isn’t fun, but it’s a new school year, you’re 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 you’ll need when you least expect it - I’ve covered it all.
All of these miscellaneous items can add up, so if you have roommates I highly recommend splitting the costs or determining who’s going to buy what (I’d go with the latter).
And one more side note before you’re off to the races - if your college apartment is not furnished and you’re on a budget, Facebook Marketplace should be your best friend. You’ll 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 don’t understand it nor do I condone it, but it’s the truth. Here are the most affordable bar stools I could find- are they the cutest? No. But they’re simple and will do the job without being an eyesore.
• Pots & Pans
Oh my gosh, please get the Always Pan. One of the best things to come out of 2020. I love the colors and it’s 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 they’re white so that’s 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 you’re 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 they’re my favorite. I love when I can add cute items to places you wouldn’t normally think to add them!
• Blender
If I’m being honest, I want a Vitamix. But they’re hella expensive and the Ninja is just as good and won’t 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 I’ve 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. It’s awful.
• Dish Drying Rack
• Cleaning Sponges
• Paper Towels & Paper Towel Stand
• Trash Can
I mean, you’re 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
Living Room:
• Couch
• Coffee Table
• TV
• TV Stand
• Floor Lamp
Love this gold floor lamp. Will make your space look high end!
• Curtains & Curtain Rod
• Throw Pillows
You don’t need 300 throw pillows. Have a few and they’ll make an impact I promise!
• Blankets
• Rug
Bedroom:
• Mattress
• Bed Frame
• Pillows
• Duvet & Cover
• Sheets
• Dresser
• Nightstands
• Desk
I love a plain white desk. I think it’s 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- they’re just a bad idea.
• Mirror
• Desk Lamp
• Clothing
Bring your clothing. Try not to bring your whole closet or you’ll 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.
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