Moving into a new home is equal parts stress and excitement. Dealing with finalizing closing transactions, locating a reputable moving company, and trying to pack can be overwhelming. In addition to all of that, you may be selecting new furniture, paint, or flooring. If you’re building a new home, be prepared for construction delays and multiple frustrations.

To help yourself and your family survive this mess, carve out some time for organization. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or have been down this road before, you need lists, more lists and moving planners to keep you on track.

A checklist of essential items to get you through the first few days will make this your easiest move ever.

“Must Haves” for the First Few Days in Your New Home

Self Storage Unit

You’re ahead of the game if you’ve already leased a storage unit to provide you with extra space during your move. Self storage is your solution before and after the sale of your home. During the first trying days in your new place, you’ll be navigating your way through a minefield of boxes, bags, and containers. Self storage can give you a place to store the clutter and the boxes so that you’re not tripping over them before you’re ready to unpack. Here at My Storage Plus, we have the types and sizes of storage units that perfectly fit your needs.

New Locks

Unless you’re moving into new construction, you have no way of knowing who all had access to your property. The safest way to ensure that random people don’t have copies of your keys is to install new locks. When choosing a new lock, invest in the highest quality that fits your budget. It should be easily accessible to household members while protecting against intruders. If possible, go for an electronic keyless lock that allows for more control and eliminates the need for keys.

Cleaning Supplies

Even if the home was professionally cleaned before you moved in, the moving process will leave dirt and dust. In any case, you’ll want to clean and disinfect the bathrooms and the kitchen and give your furniture a thorough dusting and polishing. Your cleaning kit should contain a good all-purpose disinfecting cleaner, furniture polish, glass cleaner, microfiber cloths, paper towels, sponges, and rubber gloves. Add any other products or cleaning tools that you consider necessary so that you can be ready to tackle these jobs as soon as possible after the move.

Kitchen Basics

You’re going to be using the kitchen within the first couple of days of moving. Have these basics ready so that you’re not caught off guard when you’re preparing your first meal. Remember, you’re building a well-equipped kitchen for your distinctive cooking needs. This is a guideline to get you started; you’ll want to add your personal favorites to this list.

• Plates, cups, and utensils
• Frying pans and pots
• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowls
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Storage containers and plastic bags
• Dishwasher soap and liquid for handwashing
• Dishcloths and tea towels

Don’t forget to fill the pantry.

• Flour
• Sugar
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Oil of your choice
• Vinegar
• Salt
• Pepper
• Dried herbs and spices

Bathroom Essentials

Though every household is different, the following items will work for most families. Be sure that each family member has collected their personal toiletries

• Bath Towels, hand towels, and washcloths (2 sets for each person)
• Non-skid bath mats and rugs
• Toothbrush holders
• Over-the-door or wall hooks
• Toilet paper
• Hand soap
• Wastebaskets

First Aid Kit

Accidents occur when you least expect them, so have a few basic medical supplies on hand for small injuries. You want to be able to deal with minor scrapes, burns, or dog bites. An effective first-aid kit should contain bandages, cloth tape, antibiotic ointment, antiseptic wipes, a cold compress, a thermometer, and tweezers. For a more detailed list, check the American Red Cross website.

Basic Tool Kit

You need a small, practical tool kit to hang pictures and hooks, tighten screws, and assemble small pieces of furniture. A good beginner toolbox should contain a hammer, screwdriver set, small drill, vise grips, and a utility knife.

Batteries

Make a list of the types of batteries that you use and stock up. Everything from remote controls to smoke alarms to flashlights relies on batteries. Don’t want to be caught unprepared. The last thing you need on top of the moving chaos is a crying child whose favorite toy won’t work because the batteries are dead.

Fire Extinguisher

Even if your home is equipped with smoke alarms, a fire extinguisher is absolutely essential. It should be within easy reach, and everyone in the house should know where it is. Small kitchen fires can be easily handled with a fire extinguisher. Moreover, remember to replace your extinguisher when it has expired. For a guide to fire extinguisher types check Webstaurant Store.

Wrapup
During the excitement and chaos of moving, it’s easy to forget about the essentials that every household needs to be safe and comfortable. Use the above suggestions as a guideline to get you started. Later you can personalize and expand this list based on your family’s habits and routines.