6 Apartment Essentials Every Renter Needs to Feel at Home
Whether you’re living solo, sharing a space with roommates, or settling into a new place with your partner, one thing’s true: it takes more than four walls to feel at home.
Sure, you could get by with the basics—but having the right home essentials makes a big difference. Maybe you’re still eating dinner on the couch because there’s no table. Maybe the pan you’ve been using for everything is finally wearing out. Or maybe you’re just ready to feel more settled and spend less time working around what you don’t have. If so, this blog is for you.
Apartment Essentials
We’ve rounded up must-have apartment essentials that help make your space feel more functional, more comfortable, and more like you. And because we know money doesn’t grow on trees, each section includes a helpful way to save—through trusted partner offers on CSC Marketplace.
#1 Kitchen Essentials
Even if you’re not big on cooking, having a few kitchen basics on hand can save you a surprising amount of money over time. Ordering takeout or grabbing food on the go adds up fast—but with the right setup, making simple meals at home becomes way more doable (and way more affordable).
Here’s what you’ll want to get started:
- One or two pots and pans (at least one with a lid)
- Basic utensils: spatula, spoon, tongs
- Cutting board
- Keurig
- A decent knife
- Instant Pot
- Baking sheet
- Vegetable Chopper
- Dish rack or drying mat
- Food storage containers
- Dish soap and sponge
- Kitchen Caddy
Once you’ve got the basics down, cooking at home becomes way easier—and way less stressful. Still, getting everything you need upfront can feel overwhelming (especially when you’re trying to stay on budget).
That’s where CSC Marketplace can help. From cookware and kitchen tools to meal kits, we’ve pulled together affordable, renter-friendly options all in one place. You can even get 65% off your first Green Chef box, which makes dinner feel way more doable—no recipe searching or grocery lists required.
#2 Bedroom Essentials
Your bedroom doesn’t have to be perfect, but it should feel like yours. After all, this is where you start and end every day—so comfort and functionality matter. Whether you’re furnishing from scratch or just trying to level up from that twin mattress on the floor, a few upgrades can go a long way.
At the very least, you’ll want:
- A bed frame and mattress
- Sheets, pillows, and a comforter
- Hangers or a dresser (or both)
- A laundry basket
- A lamp or two for softer lighting
If you’re working with a tight budget, start with the things that affect your day-to-day most—like a mattress that actually supports your back or a comforter that helps you sleep better. From there, you can add storage and finishing touches as you go.
Need help getting set up without the upfront cost? CSC Marketplace features budget-friendly options through partners like PerPay, where you can shop for essentials like beds, bedding, and even small furniture—and pay over time through small, interest-free payments taken directly from your paycheck. No credit checks, no hidden fees—just a smarter way to furnish your space without falling behind.
#3 Bathroom Essentials
The bathroom might be the smallest room in your apartment, but having it stocked with the right basics makes a big difference—especially when you’re rushing out the door or trying to unwind at night.
At a minimum, you’ll want:
- Towels (at least two per person)
- Shower curtain and liner (don’t forget hooks!)
- Bath mat
- Toilet brush and plunger
- Trash can
- Hand soap and toilet paper
- Storage for your toiletries (a simple caddy or over-the-toilet shelf can go a long way)
It’s easy to underestimate how many little things your bathroom needs until…well, you need them. Picking up a few of these in advance saves you from that 10 p.m. drugstore run after you realize there’s no toilet paper or nowhere to hang your towel.
Need a head start? CSC Marketplace offers simple ways to save on everyday bathroom basics. With Pepper Rewards, you can earn up to 20% back on everyday purchases. It’s a smart way to grab the essentials now and keep earning as you go.
#4 Living Room Essentials
Whether you’re hosting friends or just crashing on the couch after a long day, your living room should feel like a place to actually relax. It doesn’t need to be Pinterest-worthy—but it should be comfortable, functional, and feel like home.
What to start with:
- A sofa, futon, or comfy chair
- Coffee table or side table
- A lamp or two for softer lighting
- TV or entertainment setup (if that’s your thing)
- A rug to warm up the space
- Curtains or blinds for privacy
- A few throw pillows or a blanket for comfort
If you’re just starting out, prioritize the things that make your space more livable day-to-day—like seating, lighting, or even just a place to set your coffee. You can always add more over time.
Need a little breathing room in your budget? Reset, available through CSC Marketplace, helps you access your paycheck early—without fees or interest—so you don’t have to wait for payday to get what you need. Whether it’s a lamp, a rug, or a small piece of furniture, Reset can help you fill in the gaps faster, without falling behind.
#5 Cleaning Essentials
Nobody loves cleaning—but when you’re living on your own (or with roommates), it’s got to get done. Having a few go-to supplies makes it way easier to stay on top of things and avoid those “how did it get this bad?” moments.
Start with:
- All-purpose cleaner
- Disinfecting wipes or spray
- Broom, dustpan, and mop
- Vacuum (especially if you have rugs or pets)
- Trash bags and small bins
- Laundry detergent and stain remover
- Fire extinguisher and basic first-aid kit
Staying clean isn’t just about appearance—it’s about protecting your deposit, avoiding pest problems, and creating a space you actually enjoy coming home to.
Want to make it even easier? CSC Marketplace partners with services that can take cleaning off your plate entirely. Through Thumbtack, you can hire a top-rated local cleaner and get $100 off your first job. Whether you need help deep-cleaning after move-in or just want to get a fresh start, it’s a solid way to protect your space (and your weekends).
6. Tech & Entertainment Essentials
From working remotely to streaming your favorite shows, tech plays a big role in everyday apartment life. You don’t need to go overboard, but having a few key items makes things smoother and way more enjoyable.
Consider:
- A solid internet plan
- A smart TV or streaming device
- A reliable laptop or tablet
- Charging cables and a power strip
- Bluetooth speaker or headphones
- Desk or workspace setup (if you work or study from home)
If you’re setting things up for the first time, costs can add up fast. But you don’t have to overspend—or wait. CSC Marketplace makes it easy to get exclusive deals on tech that fit your needs and your budget.
Fubo TV
Get a free trial and save $20 on your first month of Fubo TV.
Mint Mobile
Get a premium 5G wireless plan for only $15/mo.
Total Wireless
Get unlimited talk, text, and data for as low as $30/mo.
5G Router + Data Plan
Maximum speed with ability to connect up to 64 devices with unlimited data.
Final Thoughts
Moving into a new apartment—or just getting more settled in one you already have—comes with a lot of to-dos. But creating a space that feels like home doesn’t have to mean doing everything at once or spending more than you have.
Start with what matters most for your day-to-day, and know that support is here when you need it. Whether it’s saving on everyday items, getting help with move-out costs, or finding a smarter way to pay over time, CSC Marketplace connects you to trusted deals, services, and tools designed to make apartment life a little easier—and a lot more affordable.
