20 budget apartment essentials under $100

Moving into your first apartment is an exciting milestone, but it can also be a bit overwhelming, especially when it comes to furnishing and stocking your new space. The good news is that creating a comfortable and functional living environment doesn’t have to break the bank. In this guide, we walk you through 20 budget apartment essentials under $100 that will help you transform your new apartment into a cozy home without emptying your wallet.

What do I need for my first apartment?

Here is a list of all the budget apartment essentials you should get:

Kitchen budget apartment essentials

1. Dinnerware set
2. Silverware set
3. Drinking glasses
4. Dish towels
5. Scrub daddy
6. Fry pan
7. Pots
8. Cutting board
9. Mixing bowls
10. Trash can

Bathroom budget apartment essentials

1. Bath towels
2. Quick dry bathmat
3. Plunger and toilet brush set
4. Bathroom trash can

Bedroom budget apartment essentials

1. Bed sheets
2. Pillows
3. Comforter
4. Lamps
5. Hangers
6. Laundry hamper

Kitchen budget apartment essentials

1. Dinnerware set

A complete dinnerware set is essential for enjoying meals at home. Look for durable options that include plates, bowls, and mugs.

2. Matte gold silverware set

Elevate your dining experience with a stylish silverware set that adds a touch of sophistication to your table.

3. Drinking glasses

Stock up on drinking glasses for water, juice, and other beverages. Opt for a set that suits your style and needs.

4. Dish towels

Keep your kitchen tidy with a set of absorbent dish towels. They’re great for drying dishes, wiping counters, and cleaning up spills.

5. Scrub daddy

This innovative scrubber changes texture based on the water temperature, making it a versatile tool for tackling dirty dishes and surfaces.

6. Fry pan

A non-stick fry pan is perfect for cooking up a variety of dishes, from eggs to stir-fry.

7. Pots

Invest in a basic set of pots in different sizes to accommodate various cooking needs.

8. Cutting board

A sturdy cutting board is a kitchen essential for chopping ingredients safely and efficiently.

9. Mixing bowls

Mixing bowls are versatile tools for preparing and serving salads, doughs, and more.

10. Trash can

Choose a compact yet functional trash can that fits your kitchen space and keeps things tidy.

Bathroom budget apartment essentials

1. Bath towels

Soft and absorbent bath towels are a must for your bathroom.

2. Quick dry bathmat

A quick-drying bathmat helps prevent slips and falls while keeping your bathroom floor dry.

3. Plunger and toilet brush set

Be prepared for bathroom mishaps with a plunger and toilet brush set.

4. Bathroom trash can

A small trash can for your bathroom ensures that you have a convenient place to dispose of waste.

Bedroom budget apartment essentials

1. Bed sheets

Comfortable bed sheets are essential for a good night’s sleep. Choose a set that’s both soft and easy to care for.

2. Pillows

Invest in pillows that provide the right level of support for your sleep style and preferences.

3. Comforter

A cozy comforter adds warmth and style to your bedroom. Look for one that suits your taste and the climate.

4. Lamps

Lamps provide ambient lighting and can instantly make your bedroom feel more inviting.

5. Hangers

Keep your clothes organized with a set of hangers. Slim hangers are great for maximizing closet space.

6. Laundry hamper

A laundry hamper helps you keep dirty clothes off the floor and maintains a clutter-free bedroom.

FAQs

How do I save money on first apartment essentials?

Saving money on your first apartment essentials is possible with a few strategic steps:

• Prioritize: Make a list of must-have items and focus on purchasing those first.
• Shop sales: Look for discounts, seasonal sales, and deals on essential items.
• Thrift stores: Explore thrift stores and secondhand shops for budget-friendly finds.
• Comparison shop: Compare prices and read reviews before making purchases.
• DIY and repurpose: Get creative by repurposing items you already have or tackling simple DIY projects.
• Start small: You don’t need to buy everything at once. Start with the basics and gradually add more items as needed.

How can I maximize space in a small apartment?

Maximizing space in a small apartment requires creativity and organization. Consider multifunctional furniture, vertical storage solutions, decluttering regularly, using mirrors to create the illusion of space, and keeping your color palette light to make the space feel larger.

How can I make my first apartment feel like home?

Personalizing your apartment can make it feel like home. Display photos and artwork that are meaningful to you, incorporate colors and textures that you love, add plants for a touch of nature, and invest in cozy textiles like blankets and rugs to create a warm atmosphere.

How can I ensure the quality of budget apartment essentials I buy online?

When shopping for budget apartment essentials online, it’s important to find a balance between affordability and quality. Here are some tips to ensure you’re getting good value for your money:

1. Read reviews: Take the time to read reviews from other buyers. Their experiences can provide insights into the quality and durability of the products you’re considering.
2. Check product descriptions: Carefully read the product descriptions to understand materials, sizes, and features. This will help you make informed decisions and avoid any surprises.
3. Look for trusted brands: Brands with a reputation for producing reliable and durable products are often a safer choice. Look for well-known brands or those recommended by friends and family.
4. Compare prices: While you’re looking for budget options, remember that unusually low prices might indicate poor quality. Compare prices across different sellers and platforms to ensure consistency.
5. Check return policies: Confirm the return and exchange policies of the online retailer. This provides you with a safety net in case you’re dissatisfied with the quality upon receiving the item.
6. Pay attention to materials: Items made from higher-quality materials are likely to be more durable. Check product specifications to make sure the materials are suitable for your needs.
7. Consider seller ratings: If you’re buying from an online marketplace, consider the seller’s ratings and feedback from other customers. This can give you an idea of their reliability and the quality of their products.
8. Warranty information: Some budget items come with warranties, even if they’re not particularly expensive. Check if the product has any warranty coverage, as this can indicate the manufacturer’s confidence in its quality.

Conclusion: Budget apartment essentials

Setting up your first apartment on a budget doesn’t mean compromising on comfort or functionality. With these carefully curated essentials under $100, you can transform your new living space into a cozy and efficient home. Whether it’s outfitting your kitchen with cookware and dinnerware, organizing your bedroom for restful nights, or ensuring your bathroom is well-equipped, these budget-friendly options cover all the bases.

Want more apartment decor tips? Check out 10 apartment home decor hacks to transform your space.

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