New Home Essentials Checklist

Room-by-room new home essentials, from the first-night box to tools and safety items.

Published June 20, 2026

First-Night Box (Open First)

Toilet paper, hand soap and toiletries
Medications and a small first-aid kit
Phone chargers and a power strip
Bedding, pillows and a change of clothes
Snacks, water, and a few plates, cups and utensils
Basic tools, a box cutter and a flashlight

Kitchen

Pots, pans and basic cooking utensils
Plates, bowls, cups and cutlery
Dish soap, sponges and trash bags
Coffee maker or kettle
Food storage containers and paper towels

Bathroom

Towels, bath mat and shower curtain
Toilet brush and plunger
Cleaning spray and toilet cleaner
Shampoo, soap and a toiletry organizer

Bedroom & Living

Mattress, sheets and extra blankets
Curtains or blinds for privacy
Lamps and spare light bulbs
Hangers and a laundry basket

Cleaning & Safety

Smoke and carbon-monoxide alarms (test or replace batteries)
Fire extinguisher
All-purpose and bathroom cleaners
Broom, mop and vacuum
Batteries, light bulbs and trash cans

Tools & Home Maintenance

Toolkit: hammer, screwdrivers, pliers, tape measure
Cordless drill and assorted screws and nails
Extension cords and power strips
Step stool or small ladder
Find and label the water shut-off and breaker box
Do this before you need them in an emergency

Admin & Accounts

Confirm utilities, internet and trash service are active
Change exterior locks or rekey the doors
Update your address on ID, bank and subscriptions
Save local emergency, doctor and handyman contacts

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A new home essentials checklist covers everything you need on hand when you move in — a first-night box, room-by-room basics, cleaning supplies, and the tools and safety items a home requires. Use it so your first night is comfortable and the house is safe from day one.

Start with the first-night box and the essentials you'll use before everything is unpacked. Then work room by room, adding tools, safety gear, and maintenance items most new movers forget.

Perfect for new homeowners and anyone setting up a place. Print this checklist or download the PDF and pack the first-night box last so it comes off the truck first.

FAQ

What should be in a first-night box?

Pack toilet paper, toiletries, medications, a change of clothes, bedding, phone chargers, snacks and water, basic tools, and a few plates and cups — everything you need before you unpack.

What are the most forgotten new home essentials?

People often forget a plunger, light bulbs, batteries, a fire extinguisher, a first-aid kit, trash cans, extension cords, and basic tools. This checklist includes them so your first week runs smoothly.

What should I do for safety in a new home?

Test or install smoke and carbon-monoxide alarms, locate the water shut-off and breaker box, consider changing the exterior locks, and keep a fire extinguisher and first-aid kit accessible.

Is this new home essentials checklist printable?

Yes. Print it or download the PDF and tick items off room by room as you settle in.