You’ve signed the papers, the keys are finally in your hand, and the moving truck just pulled away. Now what? Before the full unpacking chaos begins, it’s helpful to have a few move-in essentials for new homeowners ready to go. These simple items can make all the difference between a stressful first night and a smooth start in your new space.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or relocating to your next home, here’s what you’ll want within arm’s reach on day one.
Start with a Clean Slate
The first thing many new homeowners want to do is give the space a quick clean before settling in. Even if your home looks spotless, it’s comforting to wipe down surfaces and freshen things up.
Move-in essentials for new homeowners should always include:
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All-purpose cleaner
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Disinfecting wipes
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Trash bags
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Paper towels or cleaning cloths
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A broom or small vacuum
Having a basic cleaning kit handy saves you from digging through boxes just to find the paper towels.
Bathroom Basics Are Non-Negotiable
You’ll definitely want to stock your bathroom before nightfall. After a long day of moving, you’ll be thankful you remembered the basics.
Include these bathroom move-in essentials in your first-day bag:
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Toilet paper (don’t forget!)
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Hand soap
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Toothbrush and toothpaste
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Towels and washcloths
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Shampoo and shower supplies
It’s all about comfort—starting with that first shower in your new home.
Simple Kitchen Supplies
No one expects to whip up a gourmet meal on move-in day, but you’ll still need a few items to stay sane. Coffee, snacks, and the ability to make a sandwich go a long way.
Be sure your kitchen move-in essentials for new homeowners include:
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Paper plates and utensils
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Dish soap and a sponge
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Snacks and bottled water
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One pot or pan for simple meals
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Coffee, tea, or your favorite morning drink
Even if your fridge isn’t fully stocked yet, having a few basics makes the space feel more functional right away.
A Small Toolkit = Big Help
You might not plan to hang anything on the walls on day one—but just wait until you need scissors to open a box or a screwdriver to tighten a loose doorknob.
Here are some tool-related move-in essentials to include:
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Screwdrivers
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Hammer
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Tape measure
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Flashlight
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Utility knife or scissors
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Extension cords and batteries
You’ll likely use one or more of these within the first hour of being in your new place.
Electronics & Chargers
Moving day can zap your phone battery fast—between navigation, contacting movers, or snapping “we did it!” photos. Make sure you have:
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Phone chargers
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Laptop and tablet chargers
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Power strips
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Wi-Fi information (if already set up)
Keeping tech-related move-in essentials in one labeled bag makes them easy to find when you need them most.
Bedding & Nighttime Comfort
One of the best feelings after a long day of moving is falling into a clean, made bed. Don’t leave this part until last—prep it early and thank yourself later.
Comfort-focused move-in essentials for new homeowners include:
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Bed sheets
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Pillows and pillowcases
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Blanket or comforter
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Pajamas and a change of clothes
Even if the rest of the house is in boxes, a cozy bed can make the whole place feel more like home.
Must-Have Documents
Don’t let important paperwork disappear into the sea of cardboard. Keep a folder of must-haves in a place that’s easy to grab:
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Closing documents or lease
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Utility account numbers or contact info
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Driver’s license
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Home inspection report
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Emergency contacts
These organizational move-in essentials will save time and reduce stress if anything unexpected pops up.
Safety First
When you’re in a new home, making sure it feels safe is part of settling in. Check that the smoke detectors work, confirm the door locks, and consider setting up a security system.
Some homeowners opt for added peace of mind with services like Secure 24’s ADT protection—one more way to simplify your move and feel secure from the start.
Final Thoughts
The best move-in essentials for new homeowners aren’t fancy—they’re practical, helpful, and make your first day easier. By setting aside these key items ahead of time, you can avoid that frantic “Where’s the toilet paper?!” moment and focus on enjoying your new beginning.
From pre-move planning to inspections and helpful home tips, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Visit www.amsde.net to learn how we help homeowners feel confident and prepared—before, during, and after move-in day.