5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Decorating My First Apartment

Moving into my first apartment was a thrilling experience. It marked a new chapter of independence—one filled with excitement, nerves, and a whole lot of Pinterest inspiration. Just a girl in her twenties trying to take the world by storm. I spent countless hours searching for the perfect furniture, home accessories, and appliances to create my dream home. I knew how to create a Pinterest-worthy bedroom and Pinterest-worthy living room. But along the way, I encountered a few surprises.

If you're about to decorate your first apartment, here are five things I wish I had known before diving in.

1. Budget, Budget, Budget

I cannot emphasize this enough. Sticking to a budget is the most important part of furnishing your first apartment. While it’s tempting to splurge on trendy décor, not having a solid financial plan can quickly lead to overspending.

Essential expenses to budget for:

• Security deposit & first month’s rent

• Utilities (water, electricity, Wi-Fi, etc.)

• Furniture & household essentials

• Groceries & daily expenses

• Renter’s insurance (optional but recommended)

A well-planned budget ensures you can afford your new space comfortably while still covering essentials and preparing for unexpected costs. The best way to start? Prioritize your must-haves and create a spending plan before making any major purchases.

2. Know When to Splurge

Not everything in your apartment needs to be high-end, but some items are worth the investment. Choosing quality over quantity can save you money in the long run. It is also a plus if they are aesthetic.

Where to splurge:

• Mattress & Bedding: You spend a third of your life sleeping—invest in a good-quality mattress and comfortable bedding for better sleep and long-term health benefits. I need my beauty sleep so this was a no brainer for me.

• Couch/Sofa: A durable, comfortable couch will last for years and serve as the focal point of your living space. You definitely need another comfortable space other than your bedroom to relax and catch up on your favorite shows. I recommend this luxury sofa for a touch of elegance, or for a more budget-friendly option, try this Cloud Sofa from Amazon—both stylish and ultra-comfortable!

• Kitchen Essentials: High-quality pots, pans, and knives make cooking easier and last much longer than cheap alternatives. Have you ever tried to cook on a non-stick pan? It is not great... I do not recommend trying it. I enjoy cooking so this was category that was a no brainer. Try this sleek non-stick pot and pan set for effortless cooking and easy cleanup! Perfect for even heat distribution and a smooth, aesthetic kitchen upgrade

• Appliances (Fridge & Washing Machine): Reliable, energy-efficient appliances save you money on repairs and electricity bills.

• Desk & Chair (If You Work or Study from Home): An ergonomic setup prevents back pain and boosts productivity.

Bonus Smart Splurges:

• Vacuum Cleaner: Especially if you have carpets or pets. I recommend the Shark upright vacuum for powerful, adjustable suction and versatile cleaning. With handy tools for upholstery and hard floors, it’s easy to use, highly maneuverable, and a great value—perfect for that deep clean before moving in your furniture

• Lighting Fixtures: Warm lighting makes your space feel cozy and inviting.

• Bed Frame: A sturdy, stylish frame enhances both aesthetics and durability. Try this elegant bed frame that comes with both a headboard and a sturdy base—perfect for a stylish and cohesive bedroom aesthetic!

3. Your Dream Apartment Won’t Be Made in a Day

I initially thought my apartment would look Pinterest-perfect after just a few shopping trips—spoiler alert: it didn’t. Decorating takes time, and that’s okay!

Instead of rushing to buy everything at once, I learned to be intentional with my purchases. It took me about six months to slowly curate pieces that fit my style and budget. And honestly, a home is never truly “finished.” You’ll always find new things to add or switch up later. Be patient, and let your space evolve naturally.

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4. Always Clean Before Moving In

Even if your new place looks clean, giving it a thorough scrub before moving in provides peace of mind. Some apartments are professionally cleaned before tenants move in, but doing it yourself ensures everything is fresh. You can also ask friends or family to help—it makes the process faster and more fun!

5. Don’t Forget Curtains!

I don’t know how I overlooked this, but curtains completely slipped my mind. After my first shopping trip, I had everything except window coverings, which meant sleeping in a room with no privacy (or shade from the morning sun!). It was uncomfortable, to say the least.

Curtains or blinds add privacy, block out unwanted light, and make your space feel cozier—don’t forget them!

Final Thoughts

Decorating your first apartment is an exciting journey, but it’s important to pace yourself. With a solid budget, intentional purchases, and a bit of patience, you can create a space that truly feels like home.

Mwah, bye for now!

note: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links—at no extra cost to you! This helps support the blog and allows me to keep sharing inspiring home decor ideas. Thank you for your support! 💕

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I would love to hear from you! Let know what you wish you had known when decorating your first apartment.