7 things every new home needs... and wants!

Everyone knows that summer means one thing: moving season. It’s a time of endings and new beginnings. Newlyweds are setting up homes for their new lives together. Recent grads are moving into their first apartments. Empty-nesters are reevaluating their housing needs. Folks in various stages of life are getting ready to make big changes, and perhaps you are, too!

We decided to put together a list of new home essentials that are often overlooked or forgotten about in the chaos of moving. Everyone remembers the basics: couch, dining table, bed, etc. But, as with most things in life, it’s the little things that make a difference when it comes to creating a warm home that’s ready to have friends and family over. Here’s a list of essentials that will help you create a warm and inviting new home.

1. dinnerware

This essential is probably most overlooked by recent grads moving into their first apartment. While picking out china patterns may not sound as fun as picking out a new couch or flatscreen television, it’s equally as important to have enough plates, bowls, and glasses on hand when you decide to throw your housewarming party or invite the parents over for dinner.

A 16 piece dinnerware set is a good start for your everyday dinnerware needs. This usually includes 4 plates, 4 pasta/cereal bowls, 4 coffee mugs, and 4 appetizer/bread plates. Those who have households or who plan to do a lot of entertaining might consider a 32 piece dinnerware set, so you’ll be sure to have enough placesettings on hand when an unexpected guest or two arrives.

tag’s sonoma dinnerware comes in a variety of colors that match a lot of different decor and tastes, so it’s a great way to get your dinnerware collection started. tag’s whiteware dinnerware is also a good choice for those who prefer classic white dinnerware. It’s also made from high-quality porcelain china, so it can be used for more formal occasions as well as for everyday use.

classic and durable: tag white porcelain dinnerware

2. drinkware

Having enough of the right glasses at home is equally as important as your dinnerware. Avoid the embarrassment of having guests drink wine from coffee mugs by having both red wine glasses and white wine glasses in the cabinet. It’s also a good idea to have a set of double old fashioned glasses in your collection for mixed drinks. With these basics, you’ll be prepared for an impromptu cocktail night at a moment’s notice.

3. kitchen essentials

Kitchen essentials often get overlooked in the moving process, but it’s important to make sure you have the tools you need to whip up dinner and enjoy a meal with family and friends. The list below is a good place to start for a basic, functional kitchen set-up:

• large skillet or frying pan
• large stock pot
• colander
• mixing bowls
• measuring cups and spoons
• a large serving bowl
• storage containers for leftovers
• a good set of knives (or at least one good chef’s knife)
• utensils (forks, spoons, butter knives, etc)

4. cleaning supplies

A clean home is a comfortable home. Everyone should have the basics in their supply closet so you’ll be ready to tackle any spills or messes as they happen. So, when you’re moving into your new home, don’t forget the following:

• broom
• mop
• dustpan
• bucket
•  trash can
• scrub brush
• spray bottle

You can also make your own cleaning solutions as a fun, easy way to save money. All you’ll need is a few basic ingredients, like vinegar, baking soda, lemon, and dish soap. Check out Apartment Therapy’s recipes to make your own cleaning solutions.

5. storage

Of course, a dresser, a wardrobe, and bookshelves are all key items to help you get organized in your new home. But often, the devil is in the details and it’s the little things that we often forget to find a proper place for: magazines, blankets, the kid’s toys, remotes, etc. Clutter like this can easily distract from creating a warm and comforting home.

Baskets are a great, affordable solution for all your odds and ends. A basket under the coffee table or in the corner of the living room gives you an inconspicuous place to stash clutter when company comes to visit. You can also use baskets in the bathroom and bedroom to organize your toiletries and personal items.

6. throw pillows

A throw pillow is an instant way to add color and comfort to your new home, especially if you’re still perfecting your decorating scheme and searching for the right decor. These don’t have to be expensive. It’s easy to make your own DIY throw pillows with a quick trip to the craft store for some cheap inserts and fabric. This really well-illustrated tutorial teaches you how to sew your own throw pillow covers. Don’t know how to sew? No problem. This tutorial teaches you how to make your own throw pillow with no sewing required. 

tag block print pillow

7. candles

(image courtesy: relaxdeco.com)

If you haven’t gotten your home in picture perfect shape yet, candles are a quick and easy way to make any room look cozy and inviting. Candlelight is universally flattering and adds a warm accent to a room, which is especially important when you’re entertaining and want the conversation to continue long into the night. Place a pillar candle on a side table or light some tapers at the dinner table to instantly change the feel of the room. 

tag inner glow pierced tealight holders

We think this list covers (almost) everything you need to create a cozy and comfortable new home. But keep in mind that you’ll need to supply the last ingredients yourself: family and friends! Because nothing makes a house feel more like a home than spending quality time with those you love. With these 7 essentials for a warm home, you should have no problem throwing a gathering to remember.