Moving into your first home is a big moment—and once the keys are in your hand, it all starts to feel real. While it’s easy to get caught up in the fun stuff like styling and setting up your space, there are a few practical things worth sorting early on. They might not be the most exciting purchases, but they’ll make life a whole lot easier (and less stressful) from day one.

Of course, there are the obvious things you’ll need—like kitchen supplies, bath towels, and a decent set of sheets. But then there’s the other stuff. The random, practical, sometimes overlooked things that somehow become essential the minute you move in.

This list covers the basics you might not think about until you really need them—along with a few simple additions that make everyday life a bit more comfortable:

1. A Security System

Whether it’s a full setup or a smart doorbell cam, peace of mind is worth the investment.

2. Fire Extinguisher

Hopefully you’ll never need it—but you’ll be glad it’s there if you do.

3. Tool Kit

Because at some point, something will wobble, squeak, or fall off the wall.

4. Welcome Mat

Functional, yes—but also your first chance to show a little personality at the front door.

5. First Aid Kit

For paper cuts, clumsy moments, and the occasional DIY injury.

6. A Decent Vacuum

Especially if you’ve got pets, kids, or carpet (or all three).

7. Extension Cords & Power Boards

Because no home has plugs exactly where you want them.

8. Ladder or Step Stool

You’ll need it for everything from changing lightbulbs to hanging art.

9. Spare Light Bulbs

Nothing like moving in and realising you’re living in mood lighting... unintentionally.

10. Batteries (All Kinds)

Smoke alarms, remotes, fairy lights—trust us, you'll go through more than you think.

11. Basic Cleaning Supplies

Brooms, sprays, cloths, and the magic that is a microfibre cloth. A magic eraser is also worth having on hand for those mysterious marks that seem to show up out of nowhere.

12. Curtains or Blinds

Because waking up with the sun every morning isn’t as delightful as it sounds.

13. Laundry Hamper

A simple way to keep clothes off the floor—and out of the nearest chair.

14. A Good Coffee Setup

French press, pod machine, or fancy espresso—whatever gets you through your mornings.

15. Outdoor Lighting

Whether it’s solar garden lights, a sensor light, or a few string lights for atmosphere—good lighting makes outdoor spaces safer and easier to enjoy.

16. A Plunger

It’s not glamorous, but it is a lifesaver. Don’t wait until it’s urgent.

17. Door Stoppers

Keeps doors from banging into walls—and saves your paintwork (and your sanity) on windy days.

18. A Cosy Throw or Two

Perfect for movie nights, chilly mornings, and making your place feel lived-in.

19. A Houseplant

Instant mood lifter and a great test of your adulting skills.

20. A Bottle of Champagne (or your drink of choice)

To celebrate the fact that you’re officially a homeowner!

Having a few of these essentials on hand from the start can take a lot of the stress out of settling in. It’s those often-overlooked details that help your home run smoothly—and make it feel like yours sooner rather than later.