When you move into a new apartment, the inevitable length of your to-do list can easily be overwhelming. Change your address, unpack, order new furniture, set up utilities… the list goes on.
While you may want to crack open a can of paint or go furniture shopping immediately, there’s one room that you should turn your attention to first: the kitchen. Aside from where you’ll sleep at night, getting your kitchen up and running first is important for one simple reason, it will help you feel settled, sooner.
Unpack cookware
If you packed smart, chances are you’ll know exactly which box all of your pots, pans, and plates are in. Unpack, wash, and put these away. And while you may move items around as it makes sense, getting your cups, utensils, and other kitchen essentials out of bubble wrap is the first step to a fully-functioning kitchen.
If you previously lived with roommates who shared their cookware, or you made a cross-country move and purged things that weren’t worth the cost of shipping, replace these items as soon as possible so you don’t attempt to make a meal and realize you don’t have an important tool like measuring cups.
Don’t use your kitchen as storage
If your kitchen is cluttered with boxes that need to be broken down, clothing, or other things that don’t belong, you’ll be less inclined to cook. Although it’s easier said than done, don’t let your unpacking overflow into the kitchen.
Get groceries
It’s easy to fall into the take-out trap, so avoid it altogether by stocking your pantry with essentials. Make a list of snacks, fruit, any spices and herbs, or other ingredients you use often, and then head to the grocery store. Designate a day or evening to meal prep and cook several dishes so you’ll have food on hand as you unpack the rest of your apartment. You’ll begin to create a routine in your new home and won’t spend time stressing over what’s for dinner.
Sign up for a meal kit subscription
Maybe cooking isn’t really your thing, and like Carrie Bradshaw, you use your oven as a shoe rack. If the idea of meal prepping and grocery shopping fills you with dread, try signing up for a meal kit subscription. Ingredients for multiple meals will be shipped to your door with step-by-step directions so you can try new things and improve your skills in the kitchen. Win, win.
Decorate
Lastly, decorate the space to make it feel like your own with art, plants, and other personal touches. If you don’t have a lot of storage space, install a pot rack, hang shelves, or even get a kitchen island cart.
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