OrtakListe
Home & living

First apartment checklist — a starter set for students

Moving into a first or student flat, everyone buys the same thing: three pots and no broom. This list collects the basics from kitchen to bathroom, and shared through a room code with flatmates, it's clear who has brought what. No sign-up needed.

In short

For a first apartment, the basics of four groups are enough to start: kitchen (pot set, frying pan, plates, glasses, cutlery, kettle, cutting board, knife), cleaning (broom, mop and bucket, sponges), laundry (basket, drying rack) and bed and bath (sheets, towels). Don't forget an extension cord, light bulbs and a trash can; the rest can be added over time to ease the budget.

18 items go straight into your new room; delete what you don't need, add what's missing. No account needed.

What's on the list

General

  • Pot set
  • Frying pan
  • Dinner plates
  • Glasses
  • Cutlery set
  • Kettle
  • Cutting board
  • Kitchen knife
  • Laundry basket
  • Clothes drying rack
  • Extension cord
  • Light bulbs
  • Bed sheets
  • Towels
  • Trash can

Cleaning & household

  • Broom
  • Mop and bucket
  • Dish sponges

Tips

  • Before shopping, agree with your flatmates who already owns what, and split the cost of anything you'll all use.

  • Set up a simple system for bills, shared supplies and the cleaning rota from day one; it heads off most arguments later.

  • Buy what you need on day one first, like kitchen basics and bedding; the rest is easier on the budget second-hand or borrowed.

  • When you move in, photograph any existing damage and tell the landlord, so it helps you when the deposit is settled.

How it works

  1. 1. Open your room

    Tap the button and the items land in a fresh room. No account, no email, nothing to install.

  2. 2. Share the code

    Send the room code or the link to the group; everyone's on the same list in seconds.

  3. 3. Finish it together

    Who's buying what shows up instantly; bought items get ticked, so nobody buys the same thing twice.

Frequently asked questions

What should you buy first for a first apartment?

Start with what you need from day one: bed sheets, towels, a pot or pan, plates, glasses, cutlery and a kettle. Add a broom, a trash can and light bulbs in the first week; decor and extras can wait.

How do flatmates share things fairly?

Talk first about who already owns what, so you don't all buy the same thing. Split the cost of anything shared and note who bought what, so there's no confusion when someone moves out.

What helps you get your deposit back?

At move-in, photograph existing damage and meter readings and report them to the landlord in writing; if there is a handover report or inventory, check it before signing. Handing the place back clean and as you found it also reduces disputes.

Can I change the list?

Of course. The ready-made list is just a starting point: delete, add, move items between categories.

Do I need an account?

No. A room code is all it takes — no email, password or signup.

How long is the list kept?

As long as you use it. A list is only deleted after a month without any activity; even opening the room resets the clock.

Can I install it on my phone?

Yes. With the room open, tap "Save Room" to add it to your home screen and open it with one tap.