So you’ve finally moved into your own place—congratulations! Whether it’s your first apartment after NYSC, your new marital home, or a personal milestone of independence, there’s something deeply satisfying about walking into your space and knowing it’s yours. But let’s be real—between rent, bills, and transportation, you might not have a huge budget left for furnishing.
That’s why we’ve created this guide: a smart, practical checklist of must-have essentials every first-time renter should own. From the kitchen to the bedroom and even emergency buys, this list ensures you’re not caught off guard.
Kitchen Essentials
Your kitchen doesn’t need to look like a chef’s studio to function well. Start with the basics you’ll actually use:
- Cooking pot set: A small and medium-size pot can cover most of your cooking needs. Go for non-stick if you can afford it—they’re easier to clean.
- Sharp knife & chopping board: Ever tried slicing tomatoes with a dull knife? It’s a nightmare. Get a decent blade and a plastic or wooden board.
- Kettle (electric or stove-top): Whether it’s for morning tea or boiling water quickly, a kettle is one of the most used kitchen tools in any Nigerian home.
- Gas burner or electric stove: A small tabletop gas cooker or an electric hot plate will get you started.
- Food storage containers: For leftovers, meal prep, or storing dry foods like garri, rice, and beans. Start with 3-5 pieces in various sizes.
A collapsible dish rack and sponge holder can keep your counter organized and speed up cleanup time.
Bathroom Must-Haves
A clean, functional bathroom brings peace of mind. These items are often overlooked—until you’re in the middle of a wet mess.
- Shower curtain: Especially for bathrooms without a barrier between shower and toilet.
- Cleaning brush & bleach: Toilets don’t clean themselves. These two help keep things fresh and hygienic.
- Bucket & mop: A bucket is multifunctional (laundry, cleaning, bathing), and a mop is key for rainy season floors.
- Towel rack or hooks: No more hanging towels on plastic chairs or windowsills.
Bonus Buy: A foot mat to keep your floor from getting slippery after a bath. It adds a touch of comfort too.
Bedroom Basics
This is your rest zone—make it cozy, organized, and clean from the start.
- Mattress or bedframe: Even if you start with just a good-quality mattress, your sleep matters. A simple wooden bedframe can come later.
- Bedsheets (2–3 sets): You’ll need one to use, one to wash, and one extra for those unexpected guests.
- Hangers & storage boxes: Keep your clothes off the floor and your room clutter-free.
- Small bedside lamp or rechargeable lamp: For those nights when power goes and you need to see without blinding yourself with a phone flashlight.
Under-bed storage bins or zip bags can help save space in small rooms.
Living Essentials
Even if your living room is still a work in progress, these items can make it feel like home:
- Extension box: Essential for charging multiple devices or setting up a corner for work.
- Rechargeable bulb or lamp: NEPA can’t be trusted. Always have backup light, especially for evenings.
- Small fan or standing fan: Nigerian heat is no joke. Even a rechargeable fan is better than nothing.
- Foldable table & chair: You need somewhere to eat, work, or place your laptop. Foldables save space and money.
💡 Money-Saving Idea: Check online marketplaces like 9th Marketplace, Jiji, or local thrift stores for gently used items at a fraction of the cost.
Extra Smart Buys (You’ll Thank Us Later)
These aren’t exactly urgent—but once you have them, you’ll wonder how you lived without them:
- Door stopper: Prevents door slams, especially in self-contained apartments with strong cross-breezes.
- Dustbin with lid: Keeps your space smelling fresh and insect-free.
- Rechargeable hand fan: Perfect for commutes or nights when PHCN disappoints.
- Portable power bank: You’ll never miss important calls or messages due to dead battery again.
- Mini first aid box: Bandages, Dettol, Panadol—you won’t realize how important this is until you actually need it.
💡 Don’t Forget: Matches or a lighter (you’ll need it more than once, especially if you use gas), and a few hooks or command strips for hanging things without damaging walls.
Final Tips
- Buy gradually. You don’t need to buy everything at once. Start with comfort and cleanliness: mattress, cooking pots, light source.
- Stick to neutrals. If you’re decorating on a budget, neutral colors (grey, cream, white) give a more expensive look and are easier to coordinate.
- Shop smart. Look out for deals, promo sales, clearance items, and local online vendors that offer budget-friendly essentials.
Your Home, Your Rules
Your first home doesn’t have to be picture-perfect from Day One. What matters is that it functions for you, feels safe, and brings peace after a long day. With this list, you’re well on your way to creating a space that reflects your personality, supports your routine, and makes adulting just a bit easier.
Now go ahead—make that space yours. ✨
