Buying The Basics and Beyond: Transforming Your Apartment Into a Home

Moving into an apartment for the first time is a huge step. Establishing your own place is an adventure of its own, and costs can quickly add up. Furnishing your first apartment can feel incredibly difficult, especially if you aren't sure what you need.  

It’s easy to overestimate what an apartment can hold or to blow through your budget without getting the most important items. As you make plans to move into your new apartment, make sure you're prepared. Instead of a "to-buy" checklist, you need to get organized and ask yourself some important questions.  

Questions to Ask Before You Start Shopping 

Before you start shopping for your new apartment, make sure you know what to expect on move-in day. Ask these vital questions so you know what to buy, what you're likely to need, and how to make sure the transition goes as smoothly as possible.  

• Is this apartment furnished? Some apartments will come fully furnished, so you don't have to worry about furniture, while others may be empty when you move in. Do my roommates have any furniture they intend to bring?  
  
  
• What appliances are included with rent? Make sure you know about kitchen appliances, like a microwave or dishwasher, as well as familiar conveniences like a washer and dryer.  
  
  
• What are the restrictions on altering or using furniture included in a furnished apartment? Make sure that you also know who bears responsibility if those items are damaged.  
  
  
• How do you relax? Where will you spend the most time in your apartment? Do you prefer to watch movies in the living room on the couch or scroll social media in your bed in the evening? 

By asking these questions ahead of time, you can choose furnishings and other items for your apartment that fit what it already comes with and your intended use of the space.  

What Furniture Do You Need?  

If your apartment doesn't come pre-furnished, you will need to pick up some basic furniture items. Take the time to measure the available space in each room. You may need items like:  

• A sofa 
• Comfortable upholstered chairs  
• Kitchen table and chairs 
• A bed for each bedroom 
• Office furniture 
• Bookshelves 
• End tables 
• Dressers and other clothing storage solutions

Before you start picking out furniture, make sure you have a vague idea of where those items will go, and then measure to make sure they fit. You want furniture that fits well in your new space, not items that leave you without room to move around and enjoy your new home.  There are apps that can help you plan apartment furniture layouts to make the most of your space.  

What Do You Need In the Kitchen?  

The kitchen is truly the heart of a home, and an apartment kitchen is no exception. Whether you love cooking and can't wait to entertain friends and family in your own apartment or you will be cooking for yourself alone most of the time, make sure your kitchen is well-supplied.  

Most people who cook at home at least occasionally need supplies including: 

• Plates, cups, and cutlery: Make sure you have enough for everyone living in the apartment plus some extras in case of guests or cleaning delays. If your apartment comes with a dishwasher, make sure all dishes are dishwasher-safe to streamline the cleaning process.  
• Pots and pans: A couple of pots and a good, sturdy pan will allow you to cook most of the dishes you enjoy.  
• A cutting board: You don’t want to damage your counters, table, or knives by cutting without a board. Wood and bamboo boards are great for veggies and fruits, while glass cutting boards are the most sanitary option for uncooked meats and fish.  
• Baking supplies: A few baking sheets, a good cake pan, a loaf pan, and muffin tins can all provide you with the ability to bake some of your favorites.  If you love homemade pizza or are a sourdough fanatic, a baking stone is a good investment too.  
• Measuring cups and spoons: No matter what you're cooking, being able to measure amounts can prove essential. 
• Potholders and dish towels: Many a new apartment owner has been caught without a potholder at a critical time.  Make sure they're included in your new apartment checklist.  You may need a trivet to protect your counters and table from hot pots and pans as well.  
• Food storage: Having a few plastic or glass storage dishes makes it easier to tuck leftovers away.  
• Small appliances: Think about the items you're most likely to use, whether that's an air fryer, blender, mixer, or toaster.   

As you're stocking your kitchen, don't forget about spices. Even salt and pepper can help increase the flavor of your meals.  Garlic powder, crushed red pepper, cumin, Italian seasoning, chili powder, paprika, and cinnamon are some of the most-used spices you may want to keep on hand.  

Don't Forget About Linens 

It's easy to take linens for granted when other people provide them. You use fabric for many home needs, and linens can quickly burn through your move-in budget if you aren't careful when shopping. Make sure you have:

• Bedding, including both sheets and blankets 
• Towels and washcloths 
• Cleaning rags (old cotton T-shirts are great for cleaning) 
• A bath mat 
• A shower curtain and liner, if needed 

Take into account the number of people living in the apartment as well as the potential for guests when you select linens.  Even how often you do laundry can affect how many of each item you need.  

The Cleaning Essentials You Need 

Not only do you need to furnish your apartment, but you need to make sure you can take care of it! You need supplies and cleaning compounds for a variety of housekeeping tasks. In addition to a basic all-purpose cleaner, make sure you have: 

• A toilet brush 
• A plunger 
• A broom with a dustpan 
• A mop 
• Trash cans and liners 
• A vacuum 
• Kitchen scrubbies 
• Paper towels 

Stocking up on these items ahead of time can prevent last-minute cleaning emergencies and make it easier to handle those challenges.  

Where to Find Your Apartment Essentials in Kansas City 

If you're looking for items to furnish your new Kansas City apartment or trying to find the best place to stock up on cookware, try some of these options.  

Furniture Deals: If you’re looking to buy new, Furniture Deals is only about 20 minutes from Prairie Walk Apartments and has reasonable prices.  

Blessings Abound Thrift Store: Their Washington Street location is only 10 minutes from Prairie Walk Apartments, and they have an ever-changing assortment of used furniture and home goods.  

The Culinary Center of Kansas City: For devoted home cooks, the 15-20 minute drive to The Culinary Center of Kansas City is well worth it! They have unique, fresh spices, cookware, and linens. They also offer cooking classes to expand your mealtime repertoire.  

You can also pick up cookware at your favorite department store. Finally, don't forget to check online marketplaces, including Facebook Marketplace and eBay, for affordable used options!  

Find Your Next Kansas City Apartment 

If you're looking for the ideal apartment in Kansas City, check out Prairie Walk Apartments. We offer apartments with a range of amenities that make them the perfect place to call home, from our sparkling outdoor swimming pool with a sundeck to the BBQ and picnic area.  

Our kitchens feature garbage disposals and have washer/dryer connections for easy clean-up. Each unique layout also includes a triangle design so that you’re always steps from the stove, sink, and fridge! Schedule a tour with our team today and discover the embrace of home at Prairie Walk Apartments!