Moving Home Essentials For Your New Home

You're moving in! Imagine the joy of unpacking those essential items that make your space feel like yours, ensuring that your first days are more about celebration than stress. Have you ever wondered what those home essential things are? Let's find out together.

13 min read

Moving Home Essentials For Your New Home

Key takeaways

  1. Avoid the chaos by packing a bag with must-haves for the first 24 to 48 hours. Pack keys, toothbrush, toilet roll, snacks, important documents, a change of clothes and device chargers
  2. Buy for a new home all home essential cleaning supplies like a broom, mop, vacuum, sprays, cleaning cloths, sponges, paper towels, and trash bags.
  3. It's not fun without utilities on the first day so arrange for the transfer of utilities like water, electricity, gas, and your NBN internet at least a week before your move.
  4. Give your new home a thorough clean and wipe down before unpacking to ensure a fresh start.
  5. Prioritise setting up the essential rooms like the kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom. 
  6. For peace of mind, change the locks on all outside doors and set up any necessary security systems.

Moving into a new home is an exciting milestone, but it comes with its fair share of challenges. The process of relocating can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to ensuring that you have all the necessary items that make a new house truly feel like a home. This guide aims to simplify your transition by highlighting the essential items and steps you need to take, ensuring that your first days in your new space are comfortable and stress-free. From packing a survival bag to setting up crucial utilities and prioritising key rooms, these tips will help you settle in smoothly and start enjoying your new home right away.

Preparation is your biggest ally here, and it all begins with nailing down the exact essentials for your new home. This isn’t about just tossing your household belongings into boxes and crossing your fingers (we’ve all been there), but about deploying some strategic planning and moving home inventory checklist that goes beyond just remembering the TV remote. Let’s explore the exactly what we need that will turn your first day in a new house from a chaotic scramble into a masterpiece that will keep the cogs turning from day dot.

Getting ready for the relocation

Choosing a home removals company

Finding a reliable home removals company is essential for a smooth move to your new place. First, think about the company's reputation—it's like asking around for the best pizza place in town. Look up reviews and testimonials online to see what others have experienced. Also, get some tips from friends and family who've moved recently—they might know the hidden gems.

Price matters, too. Get quotes from a few moving companies to compare, but be wary of any that offer prices that seem too good to be true. If it feels like finding a $5 filet mignon, there’s probably a catch.

Make sure the company is insured and licensed. This is your safety net in case anything goes wrong during the move. Professionalism and experience are also key—ask about their track record and how well their staff is trained.

Lastly, check out what services they offer. Some companies do more than just haul your stuff; they might pack, unpack, and even provide temporary storage. A good mover doesn’t just move boxes—they move them smartly, and with a smile.

Use the right packing supplies and techniques

Alright, let’s talk packing for a move—always a bit of an adventure, right? Picture this: You’re standing in your living room, surrounded by a sea of your stuff. Where to begin? Well, it’s all about using the right supplies and some nifty techniques to make sure your belongings survive the journey.

First off, boxes. You need a good mix of sizes. Think of it like this: smaller boxes for your heavy hitters like books and kitchen gadgets, and bigger ones for the lightweight but bulky stuff like linens and pillows. Oh, and don’t skip those specialised boxes for your fragile treasures like dishware and artwork.

Next up, packing materials...bubble wrap, packing paper, and foam peanuts are your new best friends. These goodies will cushion your items and keep them from shifting around during the move. A little tip: wrap each fragile piece individually and fill those empty spaces in the boxes with packing peanuts or crumpled paper to keep everything snug as a bug.

And here’s a game-changer: clearly label each box with its contents and the room it’s destined for. Unpacking will be a breeze, and the furniture movers will know exactly where to put each box. Speaking of boxes, give the bottoms some extra love with packing tape to avoid any mishaps, and don’t forget to tape those seams and edges well.

When it comes to packing strategy, it’s simple—heavier items at the bottom, lighter ones on top. And try not to overpack; nobody wants to lift a box that might break open or hurt your back. Follow these tips, and you’ll have a smooth move with your belongings safe and sound.

Managing utilities and address changes

One of the most crucial steps to make your move seamless is juggling your utilities and updating your address. Picture this: two weeks before the big day, you’re on the phone with your utility providers, scheduling the disconnection at your old place and the connection at your new house. It’s not just about electricity or gas; we’re talking water, waste disposal, and even the internet. And hey, don’t forget to finalise any final payments, you don’t want any surprises later!

Updating your address is another key task on the to-do list. Imagine making a checklist of all the institutions and subscriptions that need to know where you’ve moved. This includes the usual suspects like banks, insurance providers, the transport authority in your state, your employer, and those magazine or meal kit subscriptions you love. Submitting a change-of-address form to your local post office can also help as it forwards your mail for up to a year, giving you a buffer to update each contact individually.

And let’s not forget about letting friends and family know. Sending out a moving announcement via email or social media keeps everyone in the loop and saves you from answering the “Where did you move to?” question a million times. By handling your utilities and address updates efficiently, you’re setting yourself up for a smooth transition and avoiding future headaches, making your new place truly feel like home sooner. Download our moving house checklist so you don't accidentally miss a anything.

What are the essentials for the first days?

Unpacking the essentials bag for move-in day

When you first walk through the door of your new home, it's all about figuring out what's most important. Sure, unpacking everything can feel like climbing a mountain, but having a couple of "essentials" boxes makes those first days so much easier. Picture this: you’ve got everything you need right there, no digging through every single box. Just think about it—items like toiletries, a few changes of clothes, basic kitchen stuff (a kettle, a pot, some cutlery), and maybe some simple meals or snacks. And let’s not forget a toolkit for putting together any furniture and some dish soap or wipes for those quick clean-ups. Feels a bit more manageable, right?

Setting up key rooms

Next on your list should be setting up the key rooms: the bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen. Starting with the bedroom, ensure that your bed, or at least a mattress, is ready to provide you with a good night's sleep after a long day of moving. In the bathroom, make sure you have towels, toilet paper, hand soap, and a shower curtain if needed. The kitchen should be stocked with some basic utensils and appliances, so you can prepare a simple meal without too much hassle. This will help you avoid the constant need for takeout or fast food.

Ensuring connectivity

Last but not least, make sure to set up your internet and any other essential utilities. Having access to the internet is often crucial, whether for work, staying in touch with loved ones, or just finding your way around the new neighbourhood. If you've scheduled the setup appointments in advance, this can be a breeze; otherwise, make this a priority right after you've handled the basics.

By focusing on these essentials, you can transform your first days in a new house from chaotic to comfortably functional, helping you settle in—and even start enjoying—your new home much faster.

What are the initial cleaning supplies?

When moving into a new home, having a set of essential cleaning supplies at hand will make it easier to start with a clean slate. Begin with general-purpose cleaners such as multi-surface spray cleaners and disinfectant wipes, which are perfect for wiping down countertops, door handles, and light switches. Microfibre cloths and sponges are also versatile tools for dusting and scrubbing surfaces.

For floors, make sure you have a broom and dustpan for sweeping, a mop for more thorough cleaning, and a vacuum cleaner if you have carpets. Don't forget a bucket and some floor cleaner solution suitable for the type of flooring in your new home.

Bathrooms often need a little extra attention, so stock up on a reliable toilet bowl cleaner and brush, a shower and tile cleaner, and some glass cleaner for mirrors and shower doors. In the kitchen, a good dish soap, scrub brushes, and oven cleaner will come in handy.

Lastly, keep a stock of trash bags and disposable gloves to make the cleaning process more efficient and hygienic. With these supplies at your disposal, you'll be well-prepared to tackle any messes and ensure your new home is fresh and welcoming. Here are the cleaning essentials:

Essential cleaning kit:

  • Broom and dustpan
  • Cleaning rags
  • Dusters
  • Floor cleaner
  • Floor mop and bucket
  • Laundry baskets
  • Microfiber cleaning cloths
  • Toilet cleaner and toilet brush
  • Vacuum cleaner

Essential cleaning products:

  • All-purpose cleaner
  • Antibacterial wipes
  • Bleach
  • Disinfectant
  • Dryer sheets
  • Fabric softener
  • Glass cleaner
  • Laundry detergent
  • Surface spray
  • Window cleaner

Single-use wipes and sponges:

  • Absorbent wipes and paper towels
  • Bin liners and rubbish bags
  • Scrubbing pads and sponges

Cleaning gloves:

  • Disposable latex gloves
  • Heavy duty rubber gloves

Setup the essential rooms and spaces

The must-have bedroom essentials

After a day of moving, there’s nothing like a restful first night to get you back on track. Imagine this: you've finally settled in, and your bedroom is your sanctuary. Fresh, comfy linens await you, the room is at the perfect temperature, and you've managed to reduce noise and light distractions. Designing this serene and cosy space will provide you with that very special "Ahhh" moment as you lie down on those fresh sheets. (We all love that!)

Bedding essentials and privacy:

  • Alarm clock
  • Bed frame and mattress
  • Bedside lamps
  • Bedside tables
  • Bed sets (fitted sheet, flat sheet, duvet cover, pillow protectors, pillowcases)
  • Blankets, quilts, comforters
  • Duvets
  • Hangers
  • Mattress protector
  • Mirror
  • Mothballs
  • Pillows
  • Shelving
  • Storage
  • Wall adapters
  • Wardrobe organiser
  • Curtains
  • Sheer blinds or cheap venetians
  • Temporary blinds(Cardboard or newspaper to block out windows)

The must-have bathroom essentials

Setting up your bathroom makes your house functional and liveable immediately. Here’s what you'll need to ensure it’s ready to go so you can end move in day with a luxuriously soothing hot shower.

For your personal care:

  • Body wash
  • Electric shaver/razor
  • Hair dryer/appliances
  • Hand soap
  • Lotions and creams
  • Shampoo and conditioner
  • Soap dish and bar soap
  • Extra toilet paper rolls
  • Facial tissues
  • Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, floss)
  • Toothbrush holder
  • Electric toothbrush chargers

Bathroom essential items:

  • Air fresheners
  • Bath and hand towels
  • Bath mat or shower mat
  • Bath rug
  • Bathroom bin
  • Bathroom scale
  • Glasses / contacts / contact lens solution
  • Loofahs and sponges
  • Nightlight
  • Plunger
  • Scent diffuser
  • Shower caddy for products
  • Shower curtain and liner
  • Shower hooks and rings
  • Soap dispenser
  • Storage for toiletries
  • Toilet roll holder
  • Towel rails
  • Towels

Medicine and first aid kit:

  • Alcohol wipes
  • Antibiotic ointment
  • Antiseptic liquid or cream
  • Band-aids (multiple size adhesive bandages)
  • Cotton balls
  • Cold and flu tablets
  • Instant cold packs
  • Sterile latex gloves
  • Medical tape
  • Nail clippers
  • Pain relievers
  • Scissors
  • Sterile gauze pads
  • Thermometer
  • Tweezers

The must-have kitchen essentials

The kitchen is often the heart of the home, isn't it? Getting it set up just right can make your life so much easier from day one. Imagine a well-organised kitchen serving as a cosy gathering spot for family and friends, where memories are made over shared meals and lively conversations. You'll need the basics to handle anything from that morning caffeine fix, quick breakfast or a comforting dinner. Think about how comforting that home cooked meal and a hot cuppa will be as you start to wind down and relax after the day of unpacking a move.

Kitchen appliances and essential cookware:

  • Baking trays and crockpots
  • Blender
  • Bottle opener
  • Can opener
  • Chopping boards
  • Coffee machine and espresso machine
  • Electric grills
  • Electric kettle
  • End tables
  • Food processor or tri-blade
  • Frying pans
  • Grater
  • Ice cube trays
  • Juicer
  • Kitchen scissors
  • Knife set
  • Knife sharpener
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Microwave oven
  • Mixers (Hand/Stand)
  • Oven mitts
  • Peeler
  • Pots and pans
  • Rice cookers
  • Sandwich press
  • Saucepans
  • Sieves and colanders
  • Slow cookers
  • Spatulas, ladles
  • Tea towels
  • Toaster
  • Trivets
  • Tupperware storage containers (Pyrex containers)
  • Whisk

Bulky white goods:

  • Refrigerator
  • Stand along freezer
  • Oven
  • Dishwasher

Crockery, flatware and silverware:

  • All cutlery sets - knives, forks, and spoons
  • Cereal bowl
  • Champagne glasses
  • Coffee cups and mugs
  • Mixing bowls
  • Placemats
  • Plates
  • Salt and pepper shakers
  • Saucers
  • Serving bowls and salad bowls
  • Serving utensils
  • Soup bowl
  • Tea cups
  • Water cups or glasses
  • Wine glasses

Stocking with pantry essentials:

  • Aluminium foil, baking paper, and cling wrap
  • Bread
  • Cereal
  • Coffee
  • Cooking oil
  • Disposable utensils
  • Essential spices and herbs
  • Hot chocolate and Milo
  • Instant meals and frozen meals
  • Milk
  • Napkins
  • Paper plates
  • Pasta
  • Plain flour
  • Table salt and salt grinder
  • Sauces and condiments
  • Snacks
  • Spreads(Vegemite, Nutella, Peanut butter, Jam)
  • Sugar
  • Tea
  • Pepper shaker

Kitchen cleaning essentials:

  • Antibacterial surface sprays
  • Dishwashing liquid and dishwasher soap
  • Dishwasher detergent and rinse aid
  • Drawer and other kitchen organisers
  • Kitchen roll and reusable cloths
  • Kitchen utensils and cooking utensils
  • Oven degreaser and oven cleaner
  • Heavy duty paper towels
  • Rubbish bin and food waste recycling bin
  • Scouring pads and all-purpose cleaner
  • Sponges and kitchen gloves

The must-have living room essentials

Your living area and living space is where you’ll relax after a long day of unpacking. It's a cosy haven to unwind, watch your favourite shows on Netflix or other streaming platforms, read a book, or simply enjoy some quiet time. Making sure the essentials are setup in this space with your favourite décor and comfortable furniture will allow you to kick your feet up and make it feel like home in no time.

Furniture essentials:

  • Rugs
  • Sofa
  • Chairs or temporary seating (e.g., comfy camping chairs)
  • Coffee table
  • Coasters
  • Bookcases
  • Designated basket for all remotes
  • TV
  • TV stand or bracket
  • TV cable
  • Extension cords or extension leads
  • Surge protectors
  • Modem and router
  • Phone charging cables
  • Lounge pillows
  • Throw blanket & pillows
  • Slipcovers
  • Art and family picture frames
  • Wall hanging kits
  • Footrests or ottomans
  • Sound system or speakers
  • DVDs or streaming device
  • Gaming console

Games and comfort:

  • Blanket storage
  • Board games or card games
  • Candles or air fresheners
  • Clock
  • Decorative plants or flowers
  • Floor lamps
  • Magazine rack
  • Motion sensor night lights
  • Side tables and table lamps

Garage essentials and Lawn equipment

The excitement of a new home often comes with a few unexpected challenges, like assembling furniture, fixing a leaky faucet, or tightening a loose door handle. These tasks, while seemingly minor, can quickly become frustrating if you're unprepared. Having a basic toolkit on hand ensures you’re ready to tackle these small but crucial tasks with ease. It's important to have certain house safety and garage essentials in place as you never know when your home calls for a fix.

Handy DIY tools:

  • Adhesive tape
  • Electric drill
  • Electronic stud finder
  • Mallet and hammer
  • Nails and screws
  • Painter's tape
  • Picture hooks
  • Pencil and office supplies
  • Pliers
  • Safety goggles
  • Screwdriver kit
  • Spirit level
  • Stepladder
  • Tape measure
  • Tool kit and instruments
  • Torches
  • Utility or box cutter
  • Wall anchors
  • Wrench set

Lawn and garden supplies

  • Compost bin
  • Fertiliser
  • Garden fork
  • Garden hose
  • Garden shears
  • Gardening gloves
  • Grass seed
  • Hedge trimmer
  • Insect repellent
  • Kneeling pad
  • Lawn mower
  • Line trimmer or whipper snipper
  • Mulch
  • Outdoor broom
  • Plant stakes
  • Pruner
  • Rake
  • Soil tester
  • Sun hat
  • Trowel
  • Watering can
  • Wheelbarrow

The must-do security and safety measures

Establishing a sense of safety in your new environment is crucial so take the time to setup security systems or just to figure out where all the emergency exits are in your new apartment block will give you piece of mind. And let’s not forget the classic: getting to know your neighbours.

In addition to security, don’t overlook safety measures in your new home. Ensure that essential smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are installed, and replace their batteries with new ones. These steps can really put your mind at ease and make your new home feel, well, homier.

Essentials for security:

  • Swapping out to new locks
  • Setup of home security devices and cameras

Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors:

  • Smoke alarms
  • Carbon monoxide alarms
  • Batteries (Lithium or 9V batteries)
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Fire blanket

Miscellaneous essentials:

  • Additional toilet paper
  • Battery-operated radio
  • Candles and lighters
  • Cash in small denominations
  • Emergency medical supplies
  • Extra set of keys (home and car)
  • Hand-operated can opener
  • Important documents (IDs, insurance papers, etc.)
  • Maps of the local area
  • Non-perishable food and water
  • Pet supplies (food, leash, etc.)
  • Portable phone power banks
  • Power strips with surge protection
  • Spare light bulbs
  • Table top games or books for amusement
  • Torches and spare batteries
  • Warm blankets and clothing

Final thoughts

Hooray! You've made it to the end as a new homeowner. As you turn the key and step over the threshold of your new home, remember that as the chaos of moving day fades you're now prepared ever more with the home essentials to help you make your new house a home you can be breathe life into with a welcoming space where memories will form and laughter will echo.

You've packed your handy tool kit for unexpected repairs, got the spare batteries for the smoke detectors, got the essentials to make your living room a space you can wind down after the move and the lawn essentials to sprinkle in your outdoor space.

These moving in house essentials have found their place in your home to make cosy kitchen dinners and bedroom sanctuaries with a sprinkle of your personal touch. With each box unpacked and every picture hung, you're not just moving in; you've brought your dream home to life. Embrace the journey, relish the process, and welcome to your new home, where countless cherished memories await just beyond the welcome mat. Let the celebrations begin, and let it start with a smile. You're home now.

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