18 unexpected items that will make settling into your first apartment easier, from Command Strips to blackout curtains

Cartman 39 Piece Tool Set

My dad gave me a tool kit when I moved into my first apartment, and while I balked at first, I've always been glad to have it when minor repairs come up. It's also so useful for assembling furniture. At the very least, I recommend having a hammer, a Phillips screwdriver, and a flat-head screwdriver. — Lauren Savoie, deputy editor

Command General Purpose Variety Kit

I've lost one too many security deposits from wall damage due to nails I hammered into the wall. Behold, the power of Command Strips and Command Hooks, which allow you to hang pictures, lights, and more without damaging your walls. It's especially useful to have these on hand if you're living in an older building (as is often the case with first apartments), since older walls tend to be made of plaster that crumbles when you try to nail into it. — Lauren Savoie, deputy editor

Nicetown Black Blackout Curtain

Most first apartments tend to be in larger buildings in populated areas. Unless you're truly a night creature, you'll want to invest in some blackout curtains so you can sleep peacefully. Blackout curtains block light, but also help drown out noise and keep in the heat, so they can help save on your heating bill in the winter. — Lauren Savoie, deputy editor

Cree Lighting Connected Max Smart LED Bulb

I always put connected bulbs in my hard-to-reach light fixtures and lamps because it means I'll (almost) never have to change them. LED lights can last for decades, so you won't have to keep a spare box of bulbs, which is perfect if you're short on space. They're also an upgrade that you can take from apartment to apartment. Plus, color-changing bulbs are fun for parties. — Jenny McGrath, senior reporter

HO2ME High Pressure Handheld Shower Head

You don't have to use the showerhead that comes with the place! It took me way too long to realize this. For about $25, you can get a good showerhead with strong pressure. I like that you can remove the shower head from its bracket to clean hard-to-reach places. There are also several flow options. I'm not handy by any means, and this one was easy for me to install on my own with just a wrench. — James Brains, reporter

Whitmor 20-Pair Floor Shoe Rack

Shoe racks are perfect for keeping a small space organized, and the Whitmor floor shoe rack is sturdy and affordable. For less than $20, you can hold 20 pairs of shoes while keeping your small apartment entryway or closet clutter-free. 

Maytex Heavyweight Premium Shower Liner

You're going to want a good shower curtain liner. The lightweight PVC ones don't stay put while you're showering. Not only do they blow into you, but they also let a lot of water leak out of the tub onto the floor. This super affordable option will stay put and keep your bathroom floor dry and clean. It's one of my favorite budget household items. — Lisa Sabatini, senior editor  

Secura Magnetic Knife Block

As someone who only needs a few essential knives, this magnetic wooden knife block is the perfect size for my small kitchen. I've tried similar products and the magnet is never strong enough to stop the knives from falling, but I've never had that issue with this one. It also has an additional plastic safety protector that eliminates the risk of accidentally cutting yourself. A total gem if you're looking to rid your countertop of a bulky knife block. — Maiya Pascouche, associate story producer

Simplehuman Dual Compartment Rectangular Recycler Trash Can

Ellen Hoffman splurged on this Simplehuman trash can years ago and has zero regrets. It is perfect for apartments with its dual recycle and trash compartment design. 

"This is by far the best-designed trash can I've seen, and for me, the convenience, organization, and style justify the high price." — Ellen Hoffman, editor-in-chief

Libbey Polaris Drinking Glasses Set of 16

Everyone should have a good set of drinking glasses. These Libbey ones are our top pick in our best drinking glasses buying guide for their durable construction and affordability. Whether it's a refreshing cocktail or iced water, these glasses are perfect for any beverage you pour. — Kenedee Fowler, reporting fellow

RÅSKOG Utility Cart

This sturdy three-tiered rolling cart is one of the best purchases I made when I moved into an apartment as a student. I had more than one and used it in a few locations, including inside a big bathroom with minimal built-in storage to hold essentials, in the kitchen to hold disposable plates, silverware, cups and more supplies, and in my bedroom for all of my craft supplies. The three tiers hold a lot and make it easy to organize, plus it can fit into small spaces and it's super easy to move around because of the wheels. — Angela Tricarico, editorial fellow

Nordic Ware Naturals Quarter Sheet Pan

Whether you have roommates or are living alone, a quarter sheet pan is the perfect size to start out with. You can make a handful of cookies or roast just enough vegetables to get you through the day. It takes up less space than a half sheet and fits in even cramped apartment ovens. I use my quarter pans when I want to broil one fish filet or when I have a few too many cookies for my half sheet pan. — Lily Alig, reporter

Black + Decker Rapid Boil Electric Kettle

I use my electric kettle every day, and that's how you know it is a true essential. Boiling water for coffee in a minute or less is a key part of my morning routine. This kettle is quick and well-designed — it has a side window that lights up, so you can see when the water is near boiling. If you're a tea or coffee aficionado, you may want a more precise kettle, but this simple one is perfect for me. — Lily Alig, reporter  

Ikea MULIG Clothes Rack

If you're someone who not only needs some extra space but loves showing off their favorite clothing pieces, this rack is a great and affordable buy. The bedroom in my first apartment wasn't the roomiest, so this $13 clothing rack became my best friend. I received so many compliments on its sleek design while also saving closet space. — Kenedee Fowler, reporting fellow

Brooklinen Luxe Hardcore Sheet Bundle

Insider Review's editor-in-chief Ellen Hoffman has had her Brooklinen sheets for over six years and said in our Brooklinen review that the quality and comfort are still the same as the day she first got them. 

"As someone who's been sleeping on their sheets for six years now, I'm comfortable saying they are hands down the best sheets I've ever put on my bed. Perhaps more importantly, they didn't cost me a small fortune either." — Ellen Hoffman, editor-in-chief

Room Essentials 16-piece Plastic Dishware Set

When I moved into my first apartment, after focusing on much bigger items to buy, dishes were honestly the last thing on my mind. This 16-piece Target dishware set has been perfect and served its purpose well. The Room Essentials set is super affordable and includes everything you'll need to eat, drink, and store your leftovers. If you don't need the whole set, you can buy the pieces individually, starting at 50 cents. — Kenedee Fowler, reporting fellow

ORG Slimline Velvet Suit Hangers

In an apartment, you usually need all the space you can get, so a good set of hangers is key. We love these velvet clothes hangers that are perfect for maximizing closet space. From delicate scarves to thick sweaters, they will hold just about anything and keep your clothes off the floor and within reach. — Kenedee Fowler, reporting fellow

Hydrocotton Organic Quick-Dry Towels

A set of towels is essential when moving into your first place. Pottery Barn's towels are an affordable option available in 13 different colors. We tested them for our guide to the best bath towels, and they are thick, plush, and quick-drying. — Kenedee Fowler, reporting fellow