The Ultimate New Home Checklist: Setting Up Your Space After The Reno Is Complete
Congratulations! The renovations are done, the furniture is in place, and the paint has finally dried. Now, it's time for the fun part—turning your house into a fully functioning home. Whether you're moving into a brand-new space, settling into a freshly renovated home, or stocking up your vacation or guest house, you’ll need the little (but essential!) items that pull everything together.
Not sure where to start? I’ve got you covered. Welcome to the Ultimate New Home Essentials Checklist your go-to guide for gathering all those must-haves, from kitchen gadgets to guest room comforts, without the hassle of figuring it all out on your own.
This new home checklist is designed to make your life easier, room by room, so you can focus on what matters most—settling in, kicking back, and enjoying your fresh new space!
New Home Checklist Entryway Essentials: Making A Good First Impression
Your entryway sets the tone for the entire home, so let’s make it work! Keep it practical with a bench or stool to take shoes on and off, coat hooks, and a welcome mat. You’ll also want a key bowl (no more searching for keys at the last minute!) and a storage basket to corral pet items if you have a fur baby in your life. Creating a functional, organized entryway will make coming and going so much easier.
Photography by Mary Hatch
Kitchen Essentials: Stocking Your Culinary Haven for your New Home
Your kitchen is the heart of the home, and it’s often the first place you’ll need to unpack and get up and running. From cooking up family dinners to pouring your morning coffee, these essentials will have your kitchen humming in no time.
Start with cabinet prep: Grab non-slip shelf liners for your drawers and pantry, and set up those drawer organizers. This will save you a ton of time and stress down the road. As for gear, make sure you’ve got the basics: plates, glasses, pots, pans, utensils, and small appliances (hello, coffee maker!) Don't forget the extras like hand towels, pot holders, a ring bowl to stash your jewelry while cooking, and an olive oil dispenser for a touch of sophistication.
Photography by Emily Keeney
Bathroom Essentials for your New Home: Stocking Your Sanctuary
Bathrooms may seem small, but they’re packed with essentials! For every bathroom in your home, from powder rooms to the primary bath, stock up on towels, bath mats, toilet paper, and hand soap. Don’t forget the often overlooked (but always necessary) amenities like toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, and feminine hygiene products.
Pro Tip: Adding a toothbrush holder, tissue box cover, and even a fancy soap dispenser can make these spaces feel finished. Oh, and keep some extra toilet paper on hand—you never know when you’ll need it!
Photography by Emily Keeney
Laundry Room Essentials: Making Laundry Day A Breeze
Laundry isn’t exactly glamorous, but setting up an efficient laundry room makes a world of difference. Be sure to have laundry baskets for sorting clothes, detergent, fabric softener, and a drying rack. Ironing board, anyone? You’ll thank me later. It’s all about having what you need on hand so laundry day goes smoothly and painlessly.
Photography by Emily Keeney
Living Room Essentials: Creating A Cozy Retreat
Your living room should be a space where you can unwind and spend time with family. After the furniture is in place, layer in cozy essentials like throw blankets and pillows, and set up good lighting with floor and table lamps. Coasters and side tables are a must to protect that beautiful new coffee table, and if you’ve got a TV, make sure it’s set up with a stand or wall mount. Want to add a little ambiance? Bring in some candles for a warm, inviting touch.
Photography by Mary Hatch
Dining Room Essentials: Serving Up Style
The dining room is where meals and memories are made. It’s also where you can show off a little flair. Stock up on linens—think tablecloths, runners, and cloth napkins—and make sure you’ve got the basics like salt and pepper shakers and serving platters. Want to really elevate the space? Add in a centerpiece and set up a bar to keep those dinner parties flowing.
Photography by Emily Keeney
Bedroom Essentials: Rest, Relax, Repeat
The bedrooms in your home should be personal sanctuaries for relaxation. After you’ve set up the bed, make sure it’s cozy with fresh sheets, blankets, and extra pillows. Don’t forget those little details like matching hangers for the closet (it’s the small things!) and nightstand essentials like a reading lamp and charging station.
For guest rooms, add a few extra touches like fresh flowers or a luggage rack to ensure your guests feel comfortable and welcome.
Photography by Emily Keeney
Why This New Home Checklist Works For You
Whether you’re moving into a new apartment, preparing a guest house, or finally settling into your renovated home, this checklist takes the guesswork out of gathering all the essentials. I’ve designed it to be as thorough as possible so you don’t get caught off guard when you’re ready to relax and realize you forgot a key item (hello, can opener)!
This is more than just a to-do list. It’s a guide to help you feel at home in your space and enjoy the fruits of your renovation labor. Take it room by room, and soon, you’ll have everything you need for a fully functional, comfortable, and well-stocked home.
Download the Ultimate New Home Essentials Checklist and start checking off those boxes! Your dream home is only a few essentials away from being completely yours.
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