Thanks to the rise of online shopping, it has become easier than ever to have access to high-quality products. Compounded with the ever increasingly accessible information on the internet, it has never been more simple to get what we need. When shopping for a first apartment, house, or dorm room, it is easy to fall into information overload, which happens when we absorb so much information that we deem “necessary” when in reality, that information does not suit our needs and lifestyles. Whether it’s a really cute piece of decor that loses its charm after one season, something that becomes worn after one wash, or something that we thought we would use all the time yet only collects dust, we fall prey to incessant consumerism — at the expense of our wallets and our environment. Read on to find out the top 5 things you’ll regret buying for your apartment.
Over the years of relocating, I have gathered my own little list of things to stay away from when doing your apartment shopping. These are things that I told myself at the time were good ideas — investments, even — when in time, all they ended up being were items that were eventually donated or recycled.
My surprising list of 5+ things you’ll regret buying for your first apartment:
1. An elaborate knife set (Bonus points if it is super expensive!)
This is the very first thing on my list. Unless you are a chef, aspiring to be a chef, or are in a knife collecting club, you most likely won’t need that elaborate knife set from Williams Sonoma. The person cooking basic meals and recipes only needs three knives: One large chef knife with a heavy handle, One large serrated knife that is comfortable to hold, and one medium-sized paring knife. That’s it. You would use the serrated knife for carving meat, the paring knife peeling fruits and vegetables, and the chef knife for chopping and dicing literally everything else.
When you are just starting out with your first apartment, you only need what matches your lifestyle. If you’re not going to audition for Masterchef, you will most likely be able to get by with the basic essentials. You’ll wallet and countertop will thank you.
2. A fuzzy rug that gets dirty FAST
If your place has hard flooring, like tile, laminate, hardwood, or vinyl, the first thing you’ll want to do is look for a comfortable rug to add some warmth and coziness to your space. Although it is really tempting, do not purchase a super fuzzy rug. Not only will it attract a host of dirt, hair, and dust, it will also be an absolute PAIN to clean. Not to mention that once it gets dirty, it could be an eyesore to your guests. YIKES!
If you’re looking for a comfortable option that is much more practical, you might find it easier to look for a very durable rug and splurge on some fuzzy socks. This is the best combination of practicality and comfort.
3. Seasonal decor that you don’t have room to store
I love decorating my place as much as the next gal does, but I have to make conscious decisions about my seasonal decor pieces. Because it’s all fun and games until the season is over and you are left with two options: The first, find a place in your closet to store it. The second, get rid of it. So unless you have ample closet or storage space to store your seasonal decor, you might regret buying loads of season-specific pieces.
My favorite way around the storage problem is to change the ambiance — not the decor. If I change the feel of my space (I typically do this by alternating the scent every season) I don’t need a trip to Michael’s every three months. Using room sprays and wallflower scent plug-ins from Bath & Body Works has been my go-to method for changing my space with the change of the seasons.
4. Chunky knit blanket that falls apart after one wash
Chunky knit blankets have taken the internet by storm over the past few years. They are incredibly beautiful to look at online. It can be so easy to fantasize about how the things we buy will make us so much happier, and this trend is no exception. I am here to tell you that you will regret buying these, especially the ones made out of merino wool. Merino wool is extremely soft, but it is so soft that it has no integrity and zero durability. Like fuzzy rugs, they attract hair, dirt, and dust like a magnet. You will be disappointed to find that the blanket will be ruined after one wash. Something that is impossible to wash will certainly make for a regrettable purchase.
Please don’t make the same mistake I did. I was super excited to be in the chunky knit blanket club and was devestated when I realized I had to get rid of it. If you’re looking for a warm knit blanket, there are plenty of durable and affordable ones available at Target ot Amazon. The knit throw blanket I currently own is from Macy’s. It has lasted me for years and keeps me warm winter after winter. If you still have your heart set on a chunky knit blanket, buying one that is made of chenille yarn is recommended.
5. An Obsolete Alarm Clock
As pretty and nostalgic as some alarm clocks can be, you will most likely regret buying one for your apartment. Setting your alarm on your phone can be much more reliable as you can set so many more alarms in the morning. In addition, your phone is much less bulky than an alarm clock. Instead, opting for a charging station will save you space on your night table and be way more functional.
The Takeaway:
In the end, this really comes down to knowing yourself and what will/won’t fit into your lifestyle. Chances are that if you didn’t cook a lot when you were living with your parents, you’re not going to need a fancy pots and pans set. If you really enjoyed having your space to yourself during your sophomore year of college, you’re probably not going to need a bunch of plates and glasses to entertain guests. If you’re accident-prone (like me), consider not buying an expensive white rug.
Buying things for your apartment is a lot of fun. Remember to make smart and practical decisions about the quality and functionality of the items you spend your hard-earned money on. If you focus on functionality and durability over quantity and aesthetic of items, you won’t make the same mistakes I made.