Moving into a new apartment is exciting. While there are many different items you can bring along, you’ll want to focus on those you need the most. Whether you're moving into your first apartment or you’ve been living on your own for years, starting with essential kitchen items will ensure a smoother transition into your new home.

To plan your move, read through our commonly asked questions and follow along with our apartment kitchen checklist to stock your kitchen with the most quintessential items.

Apartment Essentials Checklist FAQ

For an easier transition, we’ll provide a few common questions and answers to help you decide what you need for your apartment.

What Do I Need to Move Into My First Apartment?

If you’re moving out of your childhood home for the first time, consider the appliances and amenities included in your apartment before packing to lessen the load.

From there, you can decide what you’ll need as soon as you get to your new apartment while waiting on buying the less essential items for a later time when you’re not so busy. Follow our kitchen essentials list below and create a first apartment checklist that includes bathroom, bedroom, and dining room items.

Bring along anything your family might hand down to you while making use of store deals and coupons in your area for the items you don’t have.  

How Much Do I Need to Move Into an Apartment?

You’ll often need to pay a security deposit and the first month's rent before your move-in day. You’ll also want to account for utility bills, groceries, and other monthly expenses. It's always a great idea to budget your money to help you save up for your apartment.

What You Need In Your Kitchen When You Move Out

Follow along with our basic kitchen needs list to help you plan your move. The apartment essentials listed below are the tools and appliances you’ll most likely need when you move out, no matter the type of meals or the frequency you cook.

1. Pots and Pans

You don’t have to be a master chef to need pots and pans in your home. The tools you use determine the meals you cook, and pots and pans provide ease and convenience to help you cook almost anything.

Whether you’re an occasional chef or prepare multiple meals a day, having a variety of pots and pans is an excellent investment. Choose from pots and pans such as:

• Saucepans
• Frying pans
• Skillets
• Casserole dishes

You’ll want a set that includes at least two types of saucepans with lids, two varieties of skillets, and baking casserole dishes. For instance, a frying pan helps fry eggs, while casserole dishes are essential for making mac and cheese or lasagna. The types of cookware sets vary, though you’ll want to choose the one that matches your meal preferences.

2. Measuring Cups and Spoons

Prepware is extremely important, which is why we’ve included measuring cups, mixing bowls, and knives on our list. After all, you’ll need to prepare your food before starting cooking. Measuring cups and spoons help you precisely portion out the ingredients you’ll need for your recipes, so your meals taste fantastic.

Bring a full set of measuring spoons and two sets of measuring cups to your new apartment. One set should include liquid measuring cups with handles and pour spouts. The other set should consist of cups and spoons to correctly measure and level off dry ingredients.

3. Utensils

Whether you place them in a countertop canister or inside a drawer, you’ll want various utensils to cook a variety of meals. The essential utensils include:

• Spatulas
• Tongs
• Ladles
• Large spoons
• Meat mallets
• Vegetable peelers
• Whisks
• Rolling pins

Spatulas, soup ladles, wooden spoons and slotted spoons all come in multiple sizes and materials for your needs. For instance, a nonstick skillet can scratch when you handle it with metal utensils, so bringing wooden and plastic utensils to your new place is great.

Vegetable peelers and meat mallets are excellent options if you love to cook. If you’re more of a baker, whisks and rolling pins will come in handy at your new home.

4. Strainer

Strainers are convenient and crucial for many recipes when you include them in the cooking process. They’re perfect for rinsing and steaming vegetables, for instance. And whether you’re making a light meal such as box macaroni and cheese or a complex Italian dinner, strainers make the ideal tool for draining pasta.

Even bakers can appreciate strainers to sift flour and easily incorporate it into the batter. You can even find smaller strainers that are great for powdering decorative cookies and cakes. The possibilities for recipes are endless when you have a strainer in your kitchen.
 

5. Flatware

Flatware is vital for any kitchen. You’ll want to stock your kitchen drawers with quality cutlery for eating and dining on your own or with family and friends. You can purchase flatware in different materials, such as stainless steel or sterling silver. Opt for a decorative style or a utilitarian look, depending on your budget and aesthetic preference. Examples include:

• Forks
• Knives
• Spoons
• Butter plates
• Sugar bowls
• Salt and pepper shakers
• Saucers

Butter plates, salt and pepper shakers, and sugar bowls all make excellent flatware choices to bring to your new apartment. Butter plates and containers help keep your butter at room temperature for baking, and you can refill and leave salt and pepper shakers on your kitchen table for added convenience. Pack the saucers for your tea or coffee or a place to rest your sponges or soap. Flatware is a must-have component of any kitchen.

6. Mixing Bowls

Mixing bowls make inexpensive and versatile tools for baking and cooking all types of recipes. Purchase a set of three mixing bowls that fit inside one another to save space and keep them anywhere in your kitchen.

You can choose from stainless steel, glass, plastic or even silicone bowls with tops to save food for later. You can purchase mixing bowls in all colors for an affordable price or search for a set that comes with measuring cups and spoons for even more significant savings.
Mixing bowls are perfect for baking, marinating meat, and making salad dressings, dips, and seasonings. A mixing bowl set is vital for your new kitchen, from desserts to savory meals.

7. Cutting Board

Bring along two cutting boards to your new apartment — one for raw proteins and another for cooked foods and produce. This way, you can avoid cross-contamination and have extra space to cut and prepare your meals.

For cooked foods and produce, plastic or wooden cutting boards will do the trick. Wooden cutting boards are popular since they tend to be very sanitary and lack grooves for germs to gather. At the same time, plastic cutting boards make an easy-to-clean, dishwasher-safe alternative to cut raw meat and keep your knives in good condition.

8. Knife Set

A proper knife set is essential to smoothly prepare meals. You’ll want to have a basic set that includes:

• Serrated knife
• Chef’s knife
• Paring knife

A chef’s knife ranges in size and helps you chop and dice produce or cut into poultry, meat, and fish. A serrated knife is excellent for foods with a hard exterior, such as bread, while a paring knife will help you cut fruits and vegetables. You’ll need knives for almost all meal prep, making them indispensable tools for your new kitchen.

9. Dishware

Dishware is crucial for any kitchen for obvious reasons. You’ll want to be able to serve your guests and eat comfortably with the proper set, including:

• Plates
• Cups
• Mugs

Bring a dishware set that includes small and large plates, serving platters, and bowls. Mix and match colors and designs depending on your style preferences and find affordable dishware almost anywhere.

Remember cup and mug sets and search for dishwasher and microwave-safe options for extra convenience. Glass cups are perfect for preventing leaks that often accompany those red disposable cups. In contrast, mugs are ideal for hot drinks and even easy mug cakes.

10. Bakeware

Many people look to baking to reduce stressand relieve their anxiety. That's why we've added bakeware to the list of items to take to your new apartment. Whether you’re baking a cake or roasting a chicken, it’s vital to have the correct pans for your oven. Types of bakeware include:

• Rectangular baking pan
• Baking sheet
• Round baking pan
• Muffin tin
• Loaf pan

A baking pan or baking sheet makes any meal easier to prepare, while specialty pans for certain meals such as pizza or salmon make an excellent investment.
You can make cookies, roast veggies, bake meats, and roast fish with the proper bakeware. A baking sheet without edges makes it easier to slide off finished cookies, while a baking pan with edges makes moist and rich brownies and desserts.

When you need to whip up birthday cake or muffins, cake pans and muffin tins make the perfect bakeware for your new kitchen. A loaf pan will help you bake and shape up the tastiest bread.

11. Storage Containers

Plastic or glass storage containers with secure lids make a great place to save leftovers or hold onto ingredients. You might use storage containers to keep chopped vegetables fresh to toss into a dish or place unused ingredients from making dinner.

You can find a variety of storage containers in the styles, shapes and sizes you need. Storage with undetachable lids means you’ll never lose another top again. And there are plenty of dishwasher, microwave, and freezer-safe options to keep your food nice and fresh.

Choose from zip-lock or zipper storage bags to store leftovers like pizza or sandwiches. You might even use gallon freezer bags for meal prep and freezing larger dinners for later.

12. Small Appliances

While your new apartment is bound to have the necessary kitchen appliances like a fridge and a dishwasher, you’ll want to stock your new place with the smaller devices you need to make your life easier:

Coffee maker: If you’re like most people, you’ll want a coffee maker to jump-start those early mornings. You might choose a traditional coffee maker with a glass pot or a single-serve coffee maker for smaller kitchens. Don’t forget your coffee beans, cream, sugar, and even syrups for your lattes.
Blender: A blender provides many different uses, making it an essential item for your kitchen. You can choose from different sizes to fit your space — from small to large blenders great for specific recipes. Toss in your favorite vegetables to create a soup or dressing for your salads. Enjoy smoothies, milkshakes, and even salsas or dips with a blender.
Microwave: If your apartment doesn’t include a microwave, you’ll want to invest in one to efficiently heat meals and prepare quick frozen dinners. Microwaves come in different colors and sizes to match your aesthetics and fit your apartment, no matter the space you have to utilize. Search for countertop microwaves that you can place on your counter and easily clean. There are many types of microwaves at prices that fit most budgets.
Toaster: A toaster is great for those mornings when you need to quickly grab your toast and go. It’s also an excellent investment for toasting slices of bread for deli sandwiches, warming bagels, and even heating breakfast pastries. A toaster oven is equally remarkable for heating larger meals and preparing leftover foods from the night before if you have the space.
Mixer: Whether you opt for a large mixer or a hand mixer, baked goods and trendy whipped coffee are so much easier with this essential kitchen appliance. You might use a mixer for kneading dough, creating fluffy cakes, and even stirring up ingredients for some pasta recipes. Place a large mixer and bowl on your countertop or a hand mixer in your drawer to create delicious desserts.
Slow Cooker: A slow cooker is the ideal kitchen appliance for busy people. Simply throw in your dinner ingredients before heading off to work, and your meal will be ready by the time you get home. You can buy a small cooker for yourself or a large one to feed an entire family for days. A slow cooker is an excellent appliance for meal prep and when you don’t have the time to cook during the day.

Tour Our Rentals to Envision Your New Space

Ensure your new kitchen is stocked and ready to go as soon as you move in. Planning and following a checklist of essential kitchen items ensures you have the time to feed yourself while unpacking the rest of your apartment. Envision your new kitchen when you schedule a tour rental with PMI. With 50 years of excellent service to our clients and communities under our belt, PMI is excited to help you find the ideal apartment for your needs. Appreciate 24-hour emergency maintenance, prompt service, online rent payment, and more! Check out our current apartment listings or call 717-730-4141 to schedule your tour today!

The post Apartment Kitchen Checklist appeared first on GET TO KNOW PMI.

Renting a One-Bedroom vs. Studio Apartment

If you're apartment searching, you've likely seen the terms "one bedroom" and "studio apartment" in many local listings. But what's the difference? People often use these terms interchangeably. However, each has unique features that may influence your apartment search. Consider the pros and cons of one-bedroom and studio apartments before making your final decision.

What Is a Studio Apartment?

In its most basic sense, a studio apartment is a large open room, except for an enclosed bathroom. Somewhere within the room is a kitchenette, outfitted with the basic kitchen necessities.

Other apartment types have one or more rooms, like a bedroom or office, but a studio apartment is an all-in-one room. The only doors are a front door, bathroom door, and a balcony door on occasion. You can still have designated bedroom and living areas, depending on how you furnish your apartment.

Different Versions of Studio Apartments

To be considered a studio apartment, no walls should completely divide the living space into multiple rooms besides the bathroom. Architects can manipulate the studio apartment layout to create different versions, including:

• Alcove studios: In a typical studio apartment, residents use dividers to separate their bedroom from other living areas. In an alcove studio, architects design a division for you. Alcove studio layouts have a designated bedroom nook, like a loft, for example. The apartment still has an open concept otherwise.

• Efficiency: Think of efficiency apartments as a more "efficient" use of space. They're considerably smaller than a typical studio apartment and don't have as many amenities. The biggest difference between an efficiency and studio apartment is the kitchen. Accommodating the smaller space, efficiency apartments usually lack counter space and certain appliances, like a dishwasher or full-sized fridge.

• Junior one-bedroom apartment: A junior one-bedroom apartment is a mix between a studio and a one-bedroom apartment. Junior one-bedroom apartments are usually larger than a typical studio apartment, but not always. The biggest difference is the bedroom space. A junior one-bedroom apartment has a partially installed or permanent wall separating the bedroom from the rest of the apartment. The bedroom area isn't fully enclosed, but the partial wall provides added privacy.

Some studio apartment listings don't go into the specifics. You can typically determine which version the apartment is by looking at the layout and utilities. The listing price may be an indication, too. Efficiency apartments are generally less expensive than alcove studios, with junior one-bedroom apartments being the most costly version.

Furnishing a Studio Apartment

Decorating a studio apartment can be tricky. Residents have to tap into their interior design skills to transform one room into a kitchen, living room, bedroom, and potentially more. The best way to decorate your studio apartment is to break the area into zones. In other apartment types, you have walls that break the home into zones. In a studio apartment, you have to create your own zones using:

• A room divider

• Hanging art

• Curtains

• Color blocking

• Larger furniture, like bookshelves

Less is more. Stuffing too much furniture and decor in a studio apartment can make the room feel dense and congested. Choose your furniture strategically, and commit to a single color palette to make zoning easier.

What Is a One-Bedroom Apartment?

A one-bedroom apartment has a kitchen area, an enclosed bathroom, and a bedroom complete with four walls and a door. It typically has more storage space, too, with closets included in the apartment's layout.

One-bedroom apartment layouts vary. Some have a combined living and kitchen area, while others separate rooms with half walls or archways. Additional square footage may allow for more utilities and closet or bathroom space, but it is not always guaranteed. The determining characteristic of a one-bedroom apartment is a separate, enclosed bedroom.

Furnishing a One-Bedroom Apartment

While studio apartments require larger furnishings to divide the space into functional rooms, one-bedroom apartments require a larger investment in smaller details like:

• Organizational items for storage space

• Paintings or decorations for each room

• Carpets and rugs

• Lamps

You will likely have more storage spaces to organize and other nooks and crannies to consider in a one-bedroom apartment. If you plan to host guests, you may want to invest in a pullout bed, place settings, a larger kitchen table, and other items to accommodate the extra persons. Some people prefer having these features, while others enjoy the simplicity of a studio apartment.

What Are the Differences Between a Studio and One-Bedroom Apartment?

Although the terms are commonly used interchangeably, studio and one-bedroom apartments have some differences, such as:

• Square footage: The average studio apartment is around 500 square feet but can range anywhere from 300 square feet to 1,000 square feet. One-bedroom apartments have a similar range but a higher average of 750 square feet.

• Location: Studios are more popular in urban areas with limited space and a higher population. Many urban apartment complexes prefer building studios with smaller square footage. Less-populated suburban areas have more space to spare, so you'll find more one-bedroom apartments.

• Defined bedroom: The key difference between a studio and a one-bedroom apartment is the presence of a bedroom. Because one-bedroom apartments have more square footage, architects can easily include a bedroom in the apartment layout. Studio apartments don't have this luxury. However, you can use your interior design skills to make space in your studio apartment for a bedroom.

• Amenities: A studio apartment's limited floor plan doesn't leave much room for in-unit amenities. You'll have the basics — a fridge, some counter space, a shower, a kitchen sink — but you aren't guaranteed much else. One-bedroom apartments are more likely to have convenient appliances like a washer, dryer, and dishwasher.

• Utility costs: Although residents in a one-bedroom apartment benefit from convenience, having more utilities means having a higher utility bill. Studio apartment residents tend to use less water and electricity. Plus, it requires less energy to heat or cool a studio apartment than a one-bedroom apartment because of the difference in square footage.

The differences are small, but they may influence your final decision of which apartment type is best for you.

How Are Studios and One-Bedroom Apartments Similar?

Besides the few differences, studios and one-bedroom apartments are fairly similar. Both studios and one-bedroom apartments are:

• Popular for single residents: Compared to the average single-family house, which is around 2,301 square feet, studios and one-bedroom apartments are small. For comfort and functionality, a studio and one-bedroom apartment best accommodates a single resident or two residents if the space is larger.

• Used interchangeably: Until you break down each characteristic, studio and one-bedroom apartments share many qualities. People often use the two apartment types interchangeably when comparing them to larger housing alternatives, such as townhomes or multi-bedroom apartments.

• Less expensive than multi-bedroom homes: Multi-bedroom apartments have more square footage to fit extra rooms. With more space comes higher utility prices. Studio and one-bedroom apartments give you just the right amount of space you need with a lower monthly price.

Usually, apartment-hunters first decide they want a smaller housing alternative. Then, they weigh the pros and cons of both studio and one-bedroom apartments and make their final decision based on their capabilities.

The Pros and Cons of a Studio Apartment

Studio apartments are best for single residents with a smaller budget and those who enjoy getting creative with their decorating. Thinking about moving into a studio apartment? Consider the pros and cons.

The pros of living in a studio apartment include:

• Less expensive: As outlined earlier, studio apartments are less expensive than one-bedroom apartments. Factors that determine an apartment's rent are the amount of square footage, utilities, and other amenities the apartment offers. Because studios have smaller square footage and limited utilities, the costs are lower.

• Lower utility costs: The monthly rent for a studio apartment is low, as well as the monthly utilities owed. Having limited utilities has its advantages, like needing less energy or water during your daily routine.

• Simple floor plan: Larger homes can have a maze of rooms to decorate and furnish. Even one-bedroom apartments have extra space and walls to navigate. Studio apartments have a simple, all-in-one floor plan that is straightforward to furnish and live in.

The cons of living in a studio apartment include:

• Smaller space: Although a studio apartment's floor plan is fairly straightforward, there's less space to perform your daily activities. A smaller space also limits your options for pets and social event hosting. You likely have enough space for the occasional visitor, but hosting a large gathering will prove challenging.

• Lack of privacy: A studio apartment's open concept doesn't leave much hidden. All your guests can see your sleeping and living area, closet, photographs, and other belongings from almost every angle of your studio apartment.

• Fewer amenities: As highlighted, a studio apartment's smaller square footage allows for limited amenities.

The Pros and Cons of a One-Bedroom Apartment

One-bedroom apartments are good for single residents or two residents sharing a bedroom who have more room in their budget. Are you leaning toward a one-bedroom apartment? Consider the pros and cons.

The pros of living in a one-bedroom apartment include:

• Larger space: More square footage means more room for activities. If you're someone who likes to decorate, you may enjoy the extra wall or floor space. The added space allows you to host more people, as well.

• More privacy: As you're hosting, you don't have to worry about your guests seeing every aspect of your life. An enclosed bedroom allows you to store your valuable and personal items more comfortably. If you're a remote worker, you can also benefit from the mental separation from your work and sleep space.

• More amenities: Many one-bedroom apartments come with added amenities, like a dishwasher and in-unit washer and dryer. Added amenities make for comfortable living and save you timely and costly trips to the laundromat.

The cons of living in a one-bedroom apartment include:

• Higher costs: By choosing a one-bedroom apartment, you're going to end up paying more money for more square footage and utilities. With more utilities comes higher utility costs per month. If you have the room in your budget, these higher costs may be worth it.

• More to clean: One-bedroom apartments give you more room to live in, as well as more space to clean. Some of the added amenities, like a dishwasher and washing machine, make it easier to keep your space clean.

1. What's Your Budget?

As you're touring apartments, ask the leasing agents about their income requirements. If you have a larger budget, consider choosing a one-bedroom apartment. Or, you may choose a studio apartment if you want to allocate more of your income to savings or spending money. The right apartment for you depends on your personal goals and capabilities.

2. Where Do You Want to Live?

A one-bedroom city apartment is a lot different than one in a rural location. If you are a person who loves the bustling city and close living proximities, you'll benefit from a studio apartment. Studio apartments are most common in these city areas and can save you hundreds on rent compared to choosing a one-bedroom apartment.

You might have a harder time finding a studio apartment in rural areas. One-bedroom apartments are much more common. You may even spend less on rent for a one-bedroom rural apartment than a city studio apartment compared.
 

3. How Long Do You Plan to Rent in the Area?

Renting is a good option if you plan on living in an area for a short or undetermined amount of time. If you plan to rent for longer, you may appreciate the extra living space and privacy of a one-bedroom apartment.

If you have a smaller budget for moving, rent, and utilities, temporarily living in a studio apartment may be a good option for you. If you're participating in an internship or a student lease, a studio apartment may fit your temporary lifestyle. You may want to wait until you feel established and familiar with the area to commit to a more expensive one-bedroom apartment.

4. Do You Need More Space?

What is your daily routine like? If you find yourself constantly moving around your apartment or you enjoy having space to work out and stay active, you'll benefit from a one-bedroom apartment's square footage. Studio apartments are best for people who don't mind a more confined environment. With the strategic use of space, you can still have a dedicated movement area, but it's much harder to achieve than with a one-bedroom apartment.

5. Are You OK With Having Fewer In-Unit Amenities?

A washer and dryer are on some people's must-have list. Others don't mind the weekly trip to the laundromat. Some residents don't have the time to manually clean dishes and prefer having a dishwasher.

If you can't imagine a lifestyle without added amenities, a one-bedroom apartment may be the best option for you. Keep in mind that every apartment is different. A one-bedroom apartment isn't guaranteed to have many utilities, while some studio apartments may. Talk to the leasing agent and inquire about the in-unit utilities and complex amenities.

6. Do You Like Cleaning?

Cleaning can be very therapeutic. Some people enjoy their weekend cleaning rituals. Others with busy schedules don't have the time to clean — or they don't enjoy cleaning altogether.

Studio apartments have less space to clean, making cleaning a breeze. On average, one-bedroom apartments have more space to clean, so residents can expect additional cleaning time. If cleaning time is important to you, keep in-unit utilities in mind.

7. How Much Furniture Do You Have?

Take inventory of the furniture you have. Studio apartments require less furniture to decorate and furnish fully. If you add too much furniture, you risk making the apartment feel crowded and less homey. One-bedroom apartments are best for people with a lot of larger furniture because there is more space to furnish and live comfortably.

You also have the option of selling your furniture. You can use the money to buy smaller furniture that better fits into a studio apartment or to cover some of the moving costs.

8. Do You Have Pets?

Talk to the leasing agent about their pet policy. If you choose to live in a studio apartment, larger house pets like a dog may not enjoy the confined space. Certain one-bedroom apartments may be too small for larger house animals, too. Cats, hamsters, and other smaller pets may be a better fit. Pets may feel more comfortable in an apartment with more square footage, making a one-bedroom apartment your best option.

9. How Many People Are Moving With You?

Both studio and one-bedroom apartments are ideal for single residents. If you're moving in with a partner and plan to share a bedroom, a one-bedroom apartment will provide more breathing room and more comfortable living. It's recommended that only one resident lives in a studio apartment for privacy, functionality, and comfort.

10. Do You Like Entertaining Guests?

Are you an introvert? Or, do you prefer going to a friend's house over entertaining guests at your own apartment? If so, a studio apartment is a reasonable option for you. Studio apartments can accommodate the occasional guest but aren't ideal for a large group of guests.

11. Are You OK With Less Privacy?

When you or anyone else walks into your studio apartment, everything is visible. As you're cooking in the kitchen, all your guests sitting in the living room will be an arms reach away. The only real privacy you will have in a studio apartment is in the restroom. A one-bedroom apartment provides much more privacy. If you have a guest overnight, you can comfortably sleep in your bedroom while they relax in the living room.

Some people don't mind the openness of a studio apartment, while some prefer having their privacy.

Property Management, Inc. Can Help Find the Right Apartment for You

If you're in the Pennsylvania area, let our property management professionals at Property Management, Inc. help you find an ideal living space. We have over 50 years of experience in Harrisburg, Williamsport, State College, Reading, and many other areas, and we're dedicated to helping you find the best apartment for you.

Browse our available apartment rentals online. If you find an apartment you love, contact us right from the listing! We'll be happy to share all the in-unit utilities, amenities, pet policies, and any other information.