Moving into your first place? No supervision, actually getting to pick your roommate and potentially having your own room is exciting. It could also be the first time you’ve cooked or cleaned for yourself. Here is some advice from the Indiana Daily Student staff for what to buy so the transition to living on your own is a little easier.
Cookware
Our advice: don’t go cheap. It seems like a big investment up front to pay for pots, pans (who knew can openers could cost $13?) but it’s worth it to have functional kitchen items that last. Trust us, it’s much more annoying to re-purchase a whisk, than it is to just buy a good one in the first place.
Our must haves: Oven mitts, a cookie sheet, a can opener, different sized pots and pans, plates, cups, silverware and mugs. Don’t forget Tupperware for all your leftovers, a dish drying rack and, if you’re ambitious, a crock pot for all those Pinterest recipes you said you would try some day.
Bathroom supplies
Our advice: don’t forget the small stuff. Ever realized how important it is to have a bathroom rug? Maybe you didn’t until you were suddenly standing in a puddle. What about a plunger? Or a shower liner? Or hand soap? We suggest you take stock when you’re at home of all the little extras in your bathroom.
Our must haves: Bathroom rug, hand towel, shower curtain, plunger, trash can, toothbrush holder, hand soap and extra toilet paper.
Decor
Our advice: never opt for beauty over damage. Most apartments and houses around campus will charge you after you move out for holes in the wall made by nails, paint chipped from tape and a variety of stains. Never paint your walls unless your lease specifically says you can. Instead, opt for a nice tapestry or removable wall paper. When decorating your place, be sure to consider how you will display your purchases. This brings us to the beauty that is Command hooks. They might seem expensive but they are worth the investment. Some of our staffers cited using Command hooks for anything from hanging coats and jackets in the entry way to hanging paintings or curtains.
Our must haves: Command hooks, holiday decorations to feel festive (you can get these at the dollar store), and some photos of friends and family.
Cleaning supplies
Our advice: even if you hated cleaning when your mom told you to, know she had a point. The cleaner your house, the healthier you are. But we aren’t here to tell you how to live your life. At the very least, you’ll need some cleaning supplies in case you accidentally spill your bowl of puppy chow on the living room floor. That situation looks a lot more bleak when you don’t own a vacuum, broom or dust pan.
Our must haves: Clorox wipes, sponges, paper towels, a vacuum, a broom and dust pan, stain remover and window cleaner.
