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Jada Wong/Insider
- When buying a gift for someone who just moved into their first apartment, consider gifts that are practical and useful.
- No matter what you choose, they'll appreciate any of the 40 new apartment gifts below.
- Looking for more gift guides? Find them all here.
The best part of moving into your first apartment or home is getting to create a space that's all yours. Finding the perfect decor and picking out furniture is the exciting part, but there are also small necessities to consider. A laundry hamper, bedding, pots, and pans - these are just some of the purchases a recent grad or young professional will need to make.
We recommend getting them some combination of the basics they wish they didn't have to spend their own money on, and the little luxuries that can make life infinitely better.
40 gifts for anyone in a new apartment:
This list includes a Sponsored Product that has been suggested by Gravity. It meets our editorial criteria in terms of quality and value.*
Food52
Estelle Colored Glass Hand-blown Colored Rocks Glasses, available at Food52, $85
These gorgeous glasses are handcrafted in Poland and are the perfect pop of color for any home bar.
A set of tasty olive oils and vinegarsBrightland
The Essential Capsule, available at Brightland, $112
Brightland specializes in creating authentic olive oils and vinegars without filler ingredients. The Essential Capsule set includes everything they'll need to cook delicious meals in their new home.
A comforting weighted blanketGravity
Gravity Cooling Weighted Blanket, $139.30, available at Gravity
It can be hard to get to sleep in new surroundings, especially after a stressful move. Help them settle in to their new bedroom with a soothing and cooling weighted blanket. In a sleep study by Gravity, 72% of participants reported deeper, more restful sleep and 76% reported falling asleep faster when using the Gravity Blanket. This blanket comes in three different colors and in weights varying from 15 pounds to 35 pounds. Gravity recommends choosing a blanket size that's about 10% of their body weight, but when in doubt, 15 pounds is a good place to start for those new to the sensation of a weighted blanket.
*Sponsored by Gravity
A powerful steam mopTarget
Bissell PowerFresh Deluxe Steam Mop, available at Target, $99.99
Help them keep their floors clean with our top pick for the best steam mop. The mop sanitizes hardwood floors while scrubbing away stains and dirt.
A streaming stick that turns their plain TV into a smart TVBest Buy
Fire TV Stick with Alexa Voice Remote, available on Amazon, $39.99
If they're looking to cut the cost of cable out of their lives, a streaming stick is the way to go. It turns a regular TV into a smart TV by making all their favorite media apps like Netflix and Hulu available through a voice-controlled remote.
A punny bath mat to match any type of decorUrban Outfitters
Peachy Clean Bath Mat, available at Urban Outfitters, $39
Bath mats are one of those necessities that no one likes to spend their own money on or think twice about. Gift them a punny bath mat that has enough personality to make them chuckle every day. If you know what their space looks like and want to get them something more even adventurous, check out more bath mat designs here.
A shower caddy that will follow them through multiple apartments to comeBed Bath & Beyond
Simple Human Tension Shower Caddy, available at Bed Bath & Beyond, $139.99
This shower caddy is one of the most useful things in my apartment. It uses an adjustable tension rod to hold itself into place and it can fit everything from a weirdly shaped bathtub ledge to a full floor-to-ceiling walk-in shower. It's a little pricey, but Simplehuman is known for making quality home products that rarely if ever need to be replaced. I've had mine for more than three years and it hasn't rusted at all (you can read my full review of it here).
A surge protector with USB and USB-C portsAmazon
Power Strip with USB C, 3 Outlets 4 USB Ports, available at Amazon, $18.99
More likely than not, they'll be limited in outlets in their new space, which can be frustrating. Help them solve their outlet shortage with this handy power strip which has three regular outlets, four USB ports, and one USB-C port. This power strip was also designed to allow space for another plug to be used in the second outlet and has a length of five feet.
A duster that can can extend up to three feetAmazon
Swiffer Dusters Heavy Duty Extender Starter Kit, available at Amazon, $17.99
Dusting is one of the less glamorous responsibilities that comes with moving into an apartment. This Swiffer Heavy Duty Extender Kit has everything they'll need to get the job done quickly and efficiently, including 12 duster refills. The handle can reach up to three feet, making it easier to reach into corners and crevices.
A fun way for them to display their picturesAmazon
Umbra Hangit Photo Display, available at Amazon, $19.99
If they've been in their apartment for several months and still have bare walls, this hanging wall mount display is the perfect fix. This display is easy to set up and is a fun way for them to incorporate their favorite memories into their space. It comes in several finishes including black, gold, and natural wood.
An espresso machineChloé Seytre/Courtesy of Owen Burke/Business Insider
Gaggia Classic Pro Espresso Machine, available at Amazon, $449
Kitchen gifts are always appreciated, and there's nothing that accentuates a new kitchen quite like a powerful espresso machine. If you have the budget to treat a loved one, we recommend the top pick in our guide to the best espresso machines.
Stemless wine glasses that won’t spill or break as easilyAmazon
Riedel O Stemless Wine Glasses, available at Amazon, 4 for $44.25
When my partner and I moved in together years ago, their mom bought us a nice set of tall, thin-stemmed wine glasses — likely because I had once served her Cabernet in a mason jar. Though I like using those to entertain occasionally, I prefer these stemless glasses that are much more casual and much less breakable (...kind of like a mason jar).
A gift card to buy the best set of sheets they’ve ever slept onBrooklinen
Brooklinen Gift Card, available at Brooklinen, from $50
Our executive editor calls Brooklinen's sheets one of the best purchases she's ever made, and many of us at Insider Reviews feel the same way. They'll be able to choose from quite a few weaves and materials as well as a huge selection of fun prints and colors. A basic full set costs around $130, for reference.
A personalized trinket tray for all their odds and endsMark and Graham
Greek Key Ceramic Catchall, available at Mark & Graham, $29 [customization is an additional $12]
Catch-all trays are the kind of gift that may seem underwhelming until you realize how useful they are. That was certainly the case when I was gifted one after college. Now I have a few of them around my apartment — one for keys and sunglasses by the door, one for my rings and jewelry by the bed, and another in the living room for lip balm, candle matches, and other small items. This one is customizable with their initials as an extra sweet touch.
A single-serve blender for smoothies and small batchesAmazon
Nutribullet Blender, available at Amazon, $79.99
They're likely not going to need a full-sized blender for any reason other than making large batches of frozen margaritas. Gift them a personal-sized blender for making healthy smoothies at home — and if they want to make a few frosty cocktails, they'll just have to put in a little extra work.
A robot vacuum that makes quick work of choresEufy
Eufy RoboVac 11S, available at Amazon, $219.99
Vacuuming is one of the great time-sucks in life — literally. Give them back their Sunday afternoons with the gift of a robot vacuum that'll take the work out of cleaning the house. On a personal note, I can't recommend this one enough. You can read a more thorough review of it here.
Wall hooks that work in any roomWest Elm
Loop Wall Hooks (set of 3), available at West Elm, from $19.50
If they're living the big city life in a small city apartment, they'll appreciate any extra storage they can get. These wall hooks can be hung up by the door to hold coats, keys, and bags, or they could go in the bedroom to store additional items that won't fit in the closet.
A Dutch oven they’ll have for the rest of their lifeAmazon
Le Creuset 5.5-Quart Dutch Oven, available at Williams-Sonoma, from $370
A Le Creuset Dutch oven is one of those coveted kitchen items that most people don't get until their weddings, if ever. It's a special gift I only recommend giving to someone who really loves to cook. If you want to get them something a little less expensive but equally as useful, go for an eight- or nine-inch cast-iron skillet.
A coffee maker for oneAmazon
Mr. Coffee 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker, available at Amazon, $18.74
They can brew tons of coffee in this classic coffee maker — a priceless gift, if you ask me.
A desk they can use in any roomWalmart
Mind Reader Multipurpose Home Office Computer Desk, available at Walmart, $69.99
If they're moving in the near future, their first apartment will likely be doubling as an office. This desk can be used while sitting or standing, and its complete portability allows it to move with them from room to room.
A toaster that's as sleek as it is functionalWilliams-Sonoma
Smeg Two-Slice Toaster, available at Williams-Sonoma, from $169.95
If they don't want to sacrifice design for functionality, Smeg's kitchen tools and appliances are the way to go. We've deemed Smeg's toaster the best for the design-obsessed for this exact reason.
A friendly welcome matTheDoormatory/Etsy
TheDoormatory Doormat, available at Etsy, from $35
Likewise, a welcome mat is another home basic they're going to need but aren't going to want to purchase. This simple one is fun enough without bordering on tacky.
Candles that really make it feel like homeJada Wong/Business Insider
Otherland Candles, available at Otherland, $36 each or 3 for $89
Otherland's candles have the most beautiful packaging and intriguing scents (think: sandalwood and amber, or champagne and saffron). This is one gift you'll love giving as much as they'll love getting, and it'll add a sweet touch to their space.
A jumbo pack of removable hooks that won’t damage the wallAmazon
Command Hooks 7-Pack, available at Amazon, $12.60
You can never have enough Command Hooks — especially if you're a renter who can't nail anything into the wall. This multi-pack makes a great stocking stuffer.
A place to put their boozeWest Elm
Deco Handle Tray, available at West Elm, $56.52-$89.50
Whether they have a proper bar cart or not, one simple way to add sophistication to space is to store liquor and/or barware on a pretty tray. This neutral option is great for anyone who entertains a lot — they can use it as a serving platter or hold their at-home minibar.
A utensil holder for easy access to cooking toolsWest Elm
Textured Utensil Holder, available at West Elm, $29.50
Unless they absolutely love to cook, a utensil crock probably won't be the first thing on their mind when they move into a new space, so this is a smart and useful kitchen gift they'll appreciate.
A cool canvas art print to personalize their spaceRedbubble
Alfred Hitchcock's Vertigo Canvas Print (Medium, 12"x17"), available at Redbubble, $81.37
Redbubble helps more than 700,000 independent artists and designers share their work with the world through its online marketplace — all while committing to sustainable and socially responsible practices. The marketplace promises something for everyone with its "uncommon designs on awesome stuff."
We love Redbubble's original, quirky art printed on products ranging from canvas prints to cell phone cases to bath mats. This canvas print is a perfect piece of wall art for any Hitchcock film buff.
A cozy throw to snuggle up withCrane & Canopy
Knotted Throw, available at Crane & Canopy, $89
This is the blanket we fight over in my house — it's cozy, warm, breathable, and supremely soft. You'll find it in a few different colors at Crane & Canopy.
A curated set of pots and pans that won’t fall apartPotluck
Potluck Kitchen Essentials Set, available at Potluck, $295
Help them get their kitchen fully stocked with the right tools. Potluck makes cookware comparable to brands like All-Clad and Calphalon, but at direct-to-consumer prices that won't break the bank. Shop from a selection of well-curated bundles that fit all of their cooking needs. You can read a more in-depth review here.
A coat rackWayfair
Marinello Coat Rack by Union Rustic, $82.99
Coat racks can go overlooked, but they need a place to hang their hat (and coat) just like everyone else, especially now that they have a place to call their own. Rustic and modern at once, this one will work almost anywhere.
A new down duvet that works for every seasonCasper
The Down Duvet (Full/Queen), available at Casper, from $260
Casper makes three equally excellent comforters, but this one is the more basic option. Its stitched compartments keep the ethically-sourced down from spreading through the blanket, and the organic cotton shell is gentle and cooling.
A set of hand towels for the bathroomCrane & Canopy
The Classic Hand Towels, available at Crane & Canopy, $18
Hand towels are a necessity made all the more fun when embroidered or monogrammed. Crane & Canopy offers a variety of colors and styles for a personalized touch.
A beautiful set of coasters they’ll actually want to useWest Elm
Onyx Marble Coaster Set of 4, available at West Elm, $38
Hopefully, it's a lesson they won't ever have to learn the hard way: always use a coaster. If you get them this beautiful set, they'll actually want to.
A laundry basket that blends with any decorWest Elm
Round Weave Laundry Baskets, available at West Elm, $65-$150
A laundry basket is another much-appreciated gift they'll be thankful to not have to buy themselves. The lining of this one is removable, and if they already have a laundry basket, they can use it to store extra sets of sheets and towels.
A beautiful set of dinnerwareYear & Day
Year & Day Dinnerware, available at Year & Day, from $44
Most people's first apartments (and the next few after that, if we're being honest) feature cabinets full of mismatched plates, glasses, and mugs they've collected over their time in college. Get them a new set of dishes, glasses, or flatware from Year & Day, one of our favorite new startups out there. If you're not ready to commit, you can read a full review of their dinnerware here.
A salt lamp to give their space a warm glowAmazon
Himalayan Glow Salt Lamp, available at Bed Bath & Beyond, from $14.99
I swear by my salt lamp for creating a relaxing vibe at home. This one was gifted to me two years ago and I still use it every day.
A signature scent for their new homeNordstrom
Diptyque Baies Room Spray, available at Bloomingdale's, $68
A room spray is a fun twist on the classic gift of scented candles — and you can't go wrong with anything from Diptyque. During the cooler months, there's nothing more gorgeous than the iconic, floral Baies (roses and blackcurrant leaves) scent, which you'll find concentrated in this beautiful mist.
A smart device that can answer almost any question and play musicAmazon
Echo Dot 3rd Generation, available at Amazon, $39.99
You can't go wrong when it comes to gifting the Echo Dot. It's a small speaker with major power, and Alexa can answer all their questions about the weather, traffic, and more. They'll also be able to play music, games, and control other smart devices around the house.
A cost-effective investment in their seltzer habitTarget
SodaStream Fizzi Sparkling Water Maker, available at Target, $89.99
If La Croix sparkling water is their main source of hydration, they'll love having a SodaStream around to make seltzer on demand. They can flavor it with drops meant to taste just like the real thing or create their own infusions — either way, they'll save a lot of money over time.
Note: The more expensive of the two options comes with two soda bottles and two CO2 cylinders, while the less expensive one only comes with one bottle and one CO2 filter.
A storage ottoman to save them spaceTarget
Cole Classics Square Storage Ottoman, available at Target, $89.99
Every extra ounce of storage space matters in a small apartment, which is why this storage ottoman makes a perfect (and decor-neutral) gift. The lid lifts to reveal enough space for throw blankets and a pair of slippers.
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