From cleaning supplies to tools, here’s a list of everything you’ll need for your new home.
Buying a house is rarely as simple as getting the keys and settling in. Even if you didn’t buy a fixer upper, you’ll most likely want to give your new place some level of customization, from painting the walls to refinishing the floors (and you’ll probably want to change the locks, too.) Another thing to be ready for is the ongoing maintenance like yard work, repairing a broken toilet or even just keeping your new place clean.
Here’s a list of some of the most essential products, tools and other supplies you’ll need as you settle into your new house.
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Home Renovations
While it’s generally a good idea to wait a year and get to know your house before you start knocking down walls and undertaking major renovations, projects like painting or hanging ceiling fans are an easy way to personalize and make your new home even more comfortable.
DIY Projects
How to Paint a Room
How to Paint Your Front Door
Family Handyman
How to Install Ceiling Fans
Homeowner Tools
You will need some tools to take care of your new home. Start with these three essential tools: a tape measure, a multi-utility knife, and an easy-to-store ladder. You’ll find that these are the things you’ll use over and over again. In addition to those, we also recommend:
Tool Advice
via amazon.com
10 DIY Tools You Should Own By 40
Do-It-Yourself Pest Control Strategies and Techniques
9 Tool Hacks You’ll Use Time and Time Again
Kitchen and Bathroom Supplies
Most families end up spending as much time in the kitchen as any room in the house, so it’s important to get your kitchen organized so you can make the most use of it. And you’ll obviously want your bathroom to be as comfortable as possible, too. Here are a few suggestions for what you’ll need.
Kitchen and Bathroom Tips and Hints
CapturePB/Shutterstock
The Dos and Don'ts of a Bathroom Remodel
Family Handyman
17 Cheap Kitchen Upgrades that Make a Huge Difference
Courtesy of Cris Nolasco
Incredible Kitchen Remodeling Ideas
Appliances
In most cases, your new house will already have all the appliances you need. However, it’s not unusual for the previous owner to have taken the washer and dryer with them, in which case you’ll need to get your own.
Appliance Advice
Appliance Repairs You Don’t Need to Call a Pro For
Average Life Span of the Appliances in Your Home
AlexLMX/Shutterstock
How to Get Rid of Old Appliances
Lawn Care
A lush lawn will have you spending a lot more time outdoors. It might even make you the envy of the neighborhood. But all that green grass is going to require some care and maintenance.
Lawn Care DIY
Family Handyman
Lawn Care: How to Repair a Lawn
Family Handyman
How to Tune Up a Lawn Mower
Photo courtesy of Luke Miller
10 Great Trees to Consider Planting in Your Yard This Spring
Outdoor Living
There’s nothing better than kicking up your heels and relaxing in the backyard after a long day, or even a short one. Therefore, you’ll want to get your patio or outdoor living space set up just right.
Backyard DIY Projects
How to Build a Foldable Hammock Stand
How to Build a Backyard Ring Toss Game
Family Handyman
How To Build an All-In-One Grilling Station
Cleaning Supplies
Sorry, you’re going to have to clean your house. However, if you follow a few simple cleaning tips and use the right equipment, it’ll be easier than you think. Here’s what you need to get started.
Cleaning Tips
GoodLifeStudio/Getty Images
How to Clean Your New Home
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How to Deep-Clean Vinyl and Linoleum Floors
Family Handyman
The Homeowner's Guide to Removing Any Stain
Storage
You don’t want to live out of boxes forever. Having the right storage solutions for your home makes it easy to unpack.
Organization Tips
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10 Storage and Organization Tips for Your New Home
Grand Warszawski/Shutterstock
15 Organization Strategies for Pack Rats
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5 Brilliantly Easy Ways to Get Paid for Your Clutter
Design and Décor
After moving in and unpacking, the next step is dialing in your interior design. Even if you choose to wait to fully launch into the interior design while you paint or decide on renovations, you will at least want some basic furniture and accessories to start enjoying your new home right away. Remember as you get started that quality furniture can last a lifetime if you take good care of it.
Design and Décor Tips
How to Build a DIY Nightstand
12 Awesome Furniture Hacks
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12 Interior Design Tips for Your Home
Garage
Your garage is for more than just cars. It’s a workshop and the place where your adventures begin. But you’ll want to get it organized so that it’s not a cluttered mess keeping you from doing the things you want.
Garage Organization Tips
Family Handyman
11 Ideas for Organizing Your Garage
Family Handyman
Double Decker Garage Storage Shelves
Family Handyman
Build a Workbench On a Budget
Home Security
Home security is more than just keeping your home safe from unwanted intruders — though that’s important, too — it’s also about preventing and being prepared for emergencies.
Safety Tips
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23 DIY Hacks to Burglar-Proof Your Home
Family Handyman
11 Home Security Mistakes That Put You at Risk
Family Handyman
Smoke Alarm Maintenance Tips for Home Fire Safety
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