It’s official—you’ve closed on your new house and made the big move. Now, it’s time to make yourself feel more at home. Along with your furniture and bedding, there are plenty of new home essentials that you should put on your shopping list. Plus, if it’s not a new home, there’s a couple things that might need an upgrade, like the showerheads, kitchen floor tiles or even the blinds for bedroom windows.
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For one, they’ll make you feel more organized and comfortable. They’ll also keep you from having to run to the store when all you want to do is relax and unpack. Pick up these favorite things to buy for a new house before your first night in the home. You’ll be feeling like an experienced homeowner in no time.
- Tool Kit
Every homeowner needs a basic tool kit. Available at home improvement shops and box stores, these kits usually include several types of screwdrivers, as well as a hammer, pliers and an adjustable wrench. You may even receive nails, bolts and a tape measure.
Keep your tools in a safe and easily accessible place, such as your kitchen pantry or under the bed. If you have small children, put them in a closet, your garage or in a storage unit instead. A basic set of tools will allow you to make minor to moderate fixes. If you like to DIY, consider buying a level, drill and handsaw.
- Security System
Today’s customizable, smart security systems make home security convenient and affordable for nearly any family. Even if you live in the safest of neighborhoods, having extra safety measures in place will provide you with peace of mind. The level of investment is up to you. Purchase a sophisticated indoor and outdoor program with a 24-hour monitoring service—or select a smart doorbell and set of a couple of cameras to start.
Even the most basic system allows you to access your cameras at any time through your smartphone. You’ll receive an alert or push notification if someone rings your doorbell or delivers a package. You’ll also know if a door or window is breached. Other helpful security components popular among new homeowners include motion sensors, door sensors and floodlights. Call a local security company, visit a home technology store or shop online for more information and your best options.
- Fire Extinguisher
A small fire can occur anywhere in the home, especially in the kitchen. Without quick action, it can spread rapidly. Keep a fire extinguisher under your sink or in your pantry to combat a blaze in an emergency. With proper use, your extinguisher should be able to take out a minor candle fire or stove accident. Even if the flames become larger, it’ll help you contain it while you wait for the fire department.
Once you buy one, check the expiration date. Replace it when it gets old for the best fire protection. Interior residential sprinklers are also becoming more popular. Dramatically reduce the chances of a catastrophe while creating a future selling point for your home.
- Flashlights
Most homeowners experience a power outage at least once a year. Make every family member and room visible with the help of an LED flashlight. A variety of options are available at your local home improvement or grocery store. Affordable multipacks are available in a spectrum of fun colors. You can even purchase heavy-duty utility flashlights that are virtually indestructible.
Make sure you have at least one flashlight on every floor of your home. The most popular place to house them include kitchen drawers, under the bathroom sink and under the bed. Mini flashlights make great gifts for the kids. Let them keep their favorite color light on their nightstand. It’ll help with everything from frightful evening storms to early morning bathroom trips.
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- Cleaning Supplies
Cleaning supplies are among the most essential purchases for your new home. To start, you’ll need a set of scrub brushes, sponges and a toilet brush. A broom, mop and set of microfiber cleaning cloths are also important. While you shop for these items, pick up a few spray bottles and a pack of rubber gloves. A duster, dust mop and squeegee are also very helpful.
When it comes to cleaning agents, every home can benefit from all-natural white vinegar. Combine it with water to wash almost anything. Disinfecting wipes clean counters in a flash, while window cleaner will keep your home shining from the outside in. You’ll also want to have all-purpose cleaner, dishwashing liquid and laundry detergent on hand.
- Window Coverings
Most houses don’t come with window coverings, even if you see some during the showing. To save, you’ll want to check out affordable shades for your windows. And when you choose the right blinds before moving day, you’ll never sacrifice privacy and security. Shopping online for custom window treatments will make the moving process easier.
Think about your new home’s exterior, as well as its interior décor. You should also consider whether you have homeowners association rules about your shades and blinds colors. Once you have an idea about the style you want, choose from the most durable and on-trend materials. Faux wood blinds, cellular shades and fabric blackout roller shades are among the most popular.
- Smoke Detectors
Toxic smoke and odorless carbon monoxide are among the most dangerous hazards in any household. As a new homeowner, you’ll want to make sure you have smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in each room. This equipment will easily fit into your budget for new home essentials. You can make this investment even more convenient and affordable by purchasing combination detectors.
Combination detectors will sense both regular smoke and carbon monoxide gas. Best of all, they work even during a power outage. Place new batteries in each piece of equipment when you move in. Replace annually—or whenever you hear the replacement warning alert on your system.
- Light Bulbs
Light bulbs are an important new home purchase, even if your lamps were working before the move. Bulbs can easily break as you move from house to house. You may also have additional ceiling fans or built-in lamps that you want to use immediately.
Before you close on your home, grab a set of your favorite energy-efficient products from the home improvement store. Place them in the front seat or glove box of your car so you don’t bury them under other items. If a light goes out while you’re unpacking, you can illuminate your space quickly.
- Lawn Equipment
Decide whether you’ll take care of your own lawn or hire a professional. Families who use a landscaping company will still need basic tools like gloves, a hand pruner and a hose. If you want to DIY your landscaping, you’ll need a mower and weed trimmer.
A leaf rake and soil rake are also helpful. When it’s cold outside, you’ll need a snow blower or shovel. Other useful and seasonal tools for easy lawn and gardening include loppers, spade shovels and spreaders.
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- Storage Boxes
A new home can quickly succumb to clutter. Prevent disorganization in every room with the help of plastic storage boxes. Choose from a variety of sizes and colors. Since they come with matching lids, you can preserve the quality of everything from toys to clothing items.
Stack boxes of sweaters or coats in the closet. When it gets cold out, you can swap them for summer clothes. They also make neat and tidy solutions for housing shoes, blankets and seasonal decorations.
Preparing Your New Home with the Right Tools and Supplies
Every new homeowner can’t wait to feel cozy and comfortable in their new home. Shop the supplies above as soon as your offer is accepted. That way, you’ll have time to create custom items and you’ll get the best deals. By taking the time to purchase household essentials such as window coverings, storage solutions and security technology, you’ll experience peace of mind and safety from the very beginning.
