Moving into your first place is super exciting! Besides getting furniture and decorations, acquiring the right appliances is a significant consideration. They make life easier every day, saving you time and adding a touch of comfort. With all the choices available, it can be challenging to determine what you truly need first and what can wait.
If you’re setting up your first home, this will show you the must-have appliances. From the kitchen to the laundry room, here’s how to make a practical home without going overboard.
1. Refrigerator
A fridge is a must when you get a new place. It keeps your food fresh, your drinks cold, and prevents food from spoiling too quickly.
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Why you need it: You'll end up eating out way more, and it’s hard to keep food fresh without one.
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What to look for: Choose one that doesn't consume too much power and is large enough to meet your needs. If it’s just you or you and your partner, a medium-sized one should do. If you have kids, a bigger double-door one is a good idea.
2. Washing Machine
Doing laundry by hand takes forever—nobody has time for that! A washing machine is a must for your first home.
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Why you need it: It saves you time and effort and gets your clothes really clean.
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What to look for: Front-loaders save on water and energy. Top-loaders are generally more affordable and easier to use.
3. Microwave Oven
A microwave is one of the most useful things for modern homes. You can reheat food, defrost items, and even bake if you have a special appliance.
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Why you need it: You can make quick meals, reheat leftovers, and whip up snacks, which is awesome if you’re busy.
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What to look for: A simple microwave is good if you're new to this. If you're into baking, get one that bakes too.
4. Mixer Grinder or Blender
A mixer or blender is extremely useful, especially if you cook frequently. It makes making stuff like smoothies or spice mixes faster and simpler.
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Why you need it: It saves you effort and time in the kitchen.
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What to look for: Find one that’s strong, with different jars and speeds. If you love milkshakes and juices, a small blender could also be a good option.
5. Gas Stove or Induction Cooktop
You need a good way to make food. You can use a gas stove or one of those new induction cooktops, whichever you like.
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Why you need it: You can cook healthy meals at home instead of ordering out all the time.
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What to look for: Gas stoves offer more flexibility, but induction cooktops are quicker, safer, and more energy-efficient.
6. Electric Kettle
It may seem small, but an electric kettle is extremely handy for a new home. It boils water quickly and can be used for a variety of purposes.
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Why you need it: It's great for tea, coffee, noodles, or boiling eggs fast.
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What to look for: Opt for a wireless model that automatically turns off for added safety.
7. Iron and Ironing Board
Wrinkled clothes can make you look unprofessional, and paying for laundry adds up. Having your own iron and ironing board saves money and is easy.
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Why you need it: Keeps your clothes looking good without paying someone else to do it.
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What to look for: A steam iron is generally the best option for most clothes. Find an ironing board that folds up for easy storage.
8. Vacuum Cleaner
Dust and dirt always happen, especially in a city apartment. A vacuum keeps your space clean and helps keep allergens away.
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Why you need it: Makes cleaning faster and easier.
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What to look for: If you have carpets, get one that sucks up a lot. For smaller places, a small or robotic vacuum saves space.
9. Water Purifier
Access to clean water is crucial for maintaining good health. Sometimes, tap water isn't so great, depending on where you live. Installing a water purifier is a wise decision to ensure your water is safe to drink, which in turn helps you maintain good health.
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Why you need it: It keeps you from getting sick from bad water and means you don't have to buy bottled water all the time.
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What to look for: Select a purifier that is compatible with your local water. You'll see RO, UV, and UF models around.
10. Ceiling or Table Fans
Air conditioners are nice, but you don't always need one when you're setting up your first place. Fans are cheaper and help circulate the air.
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Why you need it: Keeps your place cool and airy, especially when it's hot.
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What to look for: Opt for fans that consume minimal power or small, portable table fans that can be easily moved around.
11. Television or Smart TV
It's nice to chill with some TV after a long day. A TV is often one of the first things people buy for their new place.
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Why you need it: You can watch shows, stream stuff, and even use it to play games or show presentations.
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What to look for: A smart TV that connects to Wi-Fi and has apps like Netflix or YouTube is a good deal.
12. Dishwasher (Optional but Helpful)
You don't have to have a dishwasher, but it can save you a lot of time if you're busy.
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Why it's useful: You save time, your dishes get really clean, and you waste less water.
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What to look for: If your kitchen is small, consider finding a dishwasher that doesn't take up much space.
Tips for Picking Appliances
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Get the important stuff first: Worry about what you need every day before you blow money on fancy stuff.
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Measure your space: Ensure the item actually fits in your kitchen or laundry room.
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Think about power: Appliances that don't use a lot of energy save you money later.
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Make a plan: Buying everything at once can be expensive, so consider purchasing items gradually.
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Easy to clean is good: opt for items that are easy to maintain.
Wrapping Up
Moving into your first place is exciting, but it's also a big deal. Having the right appliances can make life easier and better. Start with the basics – fridge, washer, stove, and some kitchen stuff. Then, you can add more items, such as a dishwasher or an air fryer, later.
Don't try to get every appliance out there. Just make sure your place works for you and your budget. If you pick the right stuff, your first place will feel like home in no time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Should I buy all my appliances now or later?
It depends on how much money you have and what you need most. Get the fridge, washer, and cooking essentials first. You can get things like a dishwasher or vacuum later.
Q2. Which appliances save the most energy?
Fridges, washers, and air conditioners use the most power. If you get ones that are good at saving energy, you'll save money.
Q3. How do I know which brands are good?
Read reviews, check if they offer service in your area, and review the warranty. Brands that have been around for a while and have good service are usually safer bets.
Q4. How do I fit appliances in a small apartment?
Measure your space before you buy anything. Look for items that are compact, multifunctional, or wall-mountable.
Q5. Are smart appliances worth it?
Smart appliances are cool and can help you keep track of energy use, but you don't really need them when you're starting out. You can always get them later when you have the basics covered.