125 Essential Household Items You Should Have at Home Somewhere

Home is where the heart is — but it takes more than love to run a household. Whether you’re creating your very first home or you’re constantly reaching for supplies you never stocked in the first place, we’ve got you covered. Our list of 125 essential household items runs from cleaning supplies to kitchen equipment to things that create a happier home. 

This is all based on the collective wisdom of the Apartment Therapy editors — people who think about what makes a happy, healthy home all freakin’ day, every day. We’ve got some opinions! But we’re fairly confident our experience applies to a lot of you. And we’ve got it all divvied up by category to make stocking up easier.

If you want to hang art, tighten loose drawer pulls, change lightbulbs, and safely plug in electronics (read: live your day-to-day life!) at home, you’ll want to keep a few basic tools on hand. —Former Home Projects Editor, Sarah Everett

This is one of those home tool kit essentials that you’ll use for loosening or tightening screws all the time. 

If you’re trying to remove or insert a Phillips head screw, you’ll want to have a Phillips head screwdriver. 

You can use pliers for all sorts of home project tasks, but they’re particularly useful for removing a stripped screw. 

If you haven’t owned a power drill before, check out these mistakes to avoid and tips to make sure you’re using it to its full potential.

When you’re installing that gallery wall or mounting a hook for a hanging plant, you’re definitely going to need a hammer. This hammer happens to double as a screwdriver, too! 

From square footage to counter height, there are so many measurements you need for your home. A measuring tape makes the job a cinch. 

Buy a level, learn how to use a level, and never suffer through another crookedly hung picture frame again.

You never know what size you might need, so it’s nice to have a variety of nails for different kinds of DIY jobs. 

In case you need to quickly replace any furniture hardware that goes missing, keep some extra nuts and bolts in your tool kit. 

This is essential for keeping all of your tools and DIY doodads in one place. There are even mini toolboxes for those just starting a collection (they’re so cute, too!).

Whether you’re cleaning the top of your fridge or painting your walls, you’ll need a sturdy step ladder at some point. 

Save your scissors and kitchen knives from the risky business of opening packages and buy a box cutter instead. 

In a pinch, there’s almost nothing some duct tape can’t fix temporarily. (You can even use it for a chic, renter-friendly wall upgrade!)

Sealing an envelope, doing at-home crafts, labeling organizers — there are so many at-home situations that call for some transparent tape.

While its primary purpose is to protect and label electrical wires, you can also use electrical tape for this fun faux window pane hack. 

Think: WD-40 and its myriad uses, from loosening stuck drawers, to preventing rust, to even removing that goo jar labels leave behind.

If you don’t have enough outlets, they’re not located in the right spots, or you don’t want to have to crawl under your desk every time you plug in your charger, an extension cord with a surge protector is just what you’ll need. 

Whether you’re cooking, eating, working from your kitchen table, or hosting friends, it’s easy to spend a lot of time in your kitchen. So it only makes sense that there are more than a handful of essentials it calls for. From coffee mugs to colanders, here’s everything to stock in your kitchen. —Editor, Dorm Therapy and Special Features, Sofia Rivera

Check out this roundup of dishcloths at every price point, including these cute microfiber towels.

Try these heavy-duty sponges, which three pro cleaners named as their favorite. 

This is key even if you have a dishwasher — it’s good to have a place to dry hand-wash-only items. Check out this roundup of the best dish racks, including this editor-beloved Yamazaki rack that saves so much counter space.

Pot holders or oven mitts are essential for handling hot items in your kitchen. These Rifle Paper Co. oven mitt are super cute; try storing it on the back of your cabinet doors to save space!

Whether you prefer a ceramic non-stick, like this GreenPan skillet, or a cast iron one, such as the Lodge cast iron skillet, a skillet is a crucial “ingredient” if you like to cook at home.

Several editors at The Kitchn own this affordable OXO mini measuring cup. 

Over 23,500 Amazon reviewers give this stainless steel set a nearly 5-star rating. 

IKEA’s 20-piece FORNUFT flatware set is just $12.99. Wherever you buy your cutlery, try this hack for shinier silverware.

Take a look at The Kitchn’s roundup of the best paring knives you can buy — including the best overall pick: Victorinox Straight Edge Paring Knife.

This highly rated chopping board set comes with a bamboo cutting board and several plastic ones (although to avoid microplastics, you may want to opt for a wooden one, like this bamboo cutting board). 

Glass or aluminum are both great. This glass dish from Pyrex comes with a lid so you can easily transport whatever you bake in it. 

Here’s The Kitchn’s list of the best saucepans you can buy, with this stainless steel saucepan taking the title of the best overall.

Get one big enough to boil a pound of pasta, like this Cuisinart pot with a nearly 5-star rating. 

The glasses you use every day are such a personality piece. These Our Place stackable tumblers are gorgeous.

Get something durable that you’ll be happy to eat off of every day. AT writers and people in the Buy It For Life subreddit swear by the longevity of Fiestaware, the ceramics brand known for its colorful dinnerware.

Whether you’re making a big bowl of pasta or serving a leafy salad, you’ll need some dinner bowls. These IKEA bowl-plates (blates, if you will) are just $14.99 for a set of four.

Go for a glass nesting bowl set like this or a stainless steel set like this. 

This OXO colander is great for small spaces since it’s collapsible and has a 3.5 quart capacity.

More than 45,800 Amazon reviewers have given this sturdy OXO can opener a 4.6-star average rating. 

An old-school corkscrew will last you forever (plus, you can use it for cool home projects hacks, like this!).

From a balloon whisk to a French whisk, here’s a guide to every kind of whisk you would ever need.

This wooden spoon comes with a silicone jar scraper on the end of the handle, so you can scrape your measuring cups clean and then get back to mixing. 

These Rubbermaid glass storage containers are loved by our editors. They’re oven-safe, dishwasher-safe, and leak-proof!

You can go for a classic plastic ice cube tray or swap it for something more reliable (and better for you) like a silicone ice tray or a metal one.

You can find a trusty toaster for pretty cheap — but here’s a look at The Kitchn’s ranking of the best toasters on the market. Whichever you choose, don’t forget to clean your toaster!

From pour overs to automatic drip coffee makers, there are so many ways to make coffee. Even if you don’t use it, you’ll be prepared for guests who do want a cup of coffee. 

Chances are you already have more mugs than you need — here are some cute ways to display your mug collection. If you are looking for more, take a look at these gorgeous mugs from East Fork or these sweet vintage-looking mugs from Amazon. 

Whether you’re looking for a stainless steel option or a chic glass kettle, check out our list of the best electric kettles.

This Hamilton Beach mixer is compact, highly rated, and comes with its own storage case. 

Baking cookies? Roasting veggies? You’re going to need a baking sheet or two. More than 43,000 Amazon reviewers give these baking sheets a 4.7-star average rating. 

A meat thermometer is crucial for making sure your meat is cooked through, and it couldn’t be easier to use. This ThermoPro digital meat thermometer has more than 46,000 Amazon reviews and a 4.7-star average rating. 

Whether you find cleaning a stress-relieving or stress-inducing activity, one thing’s for sure: It’s an essential part of home upkeep. Don’t know where to start? Here’s our complete, beginner-friendly guide on how to clean your entire home. Plus, see below for a starting list of all the must-have cleaning tools you’ll need. —Lifestyle Director, Stephanie Nguyen

Make sure to protect your hands with gloves, as cleaning oftentimes requires you to dig in and use cleaners that can be damaging to your hands over time.

A smart tip is to get a variety of microfiber cloths in different colors to designate for each room/surface, such as the kitchen, bathroom, toilet, and living room.

Avoid the dreaded smell of a stinky sponge by opting for an antimicrobial, odor-resistant one. And make sure to replace your sponges regularly! 

Especially one with a HEPA filter, bristled brush attachment, and baseboard attachment! This one won our 2025 Cleaning Awards for best cordless vacuum.

Yes, in addition to a vacuum, a broom and dustpan can come in handy for all sorts of messes you need to scoop up quickly and dump away in a trash can.

No matter what type of floors you have, mopping is an essential step to getting them clean. Select the best mopping method for your floors — whether that’s using a traditional mop or spray mop.

A bucket will come in handy when you need to soak anything, make a big batch of cleaning solution, or transport clean water (and dirty water after cleaning).

When dusting, make sure to start from the top and work your way down, so no dust is left behind. An extendable duster is preferred to get to all those hard-to-reach spots.

Having a go-to multi-purpose cleaner that can be used all over their home is so important! 

The most versatile cleaning solution is dish soap because it’s not only gentle, but also super effective.

Disinfecting is not the same as cleaning. Cleaning involves removing any visible dirt and debris, while disinfecting is about killing germs not visible to the naked eye. It’s good to have a disinfectant on hand to use after cleaning — especially when germs are a concern (i.e., someone is sick).

Not all toilet brushes are created equal! Experts say silicone ones are far more sanitary than any other brush — and this one is our favorite.

Speaking of toilets, you’ll need an entirely separate cleaner that’s made to clean your toilet bowl.

This can be used across all glasses and mirrors in your home. Pro tip: Clean from top to bottom, and wipe in crisscrossing back-and-forth strokes to avoid streaks.

Finally, you’re going to need something to store all your go-to cleaners. A caddy comes in handy here so you can not only store them neatly together, but also have them ready to lug around room to room. A handheld one is ideal, but some people have a dedicated rolling cart for cleaning as well! 

Filling a space with furniture you love takes time and intention, so don’t feel like this process has to happen overnight. But you have to start somewhere. So if you’re looking for a few key items to get your household up and running, these editor-approved essentials are the kinds of pieces you’ll always need — no matter the size or style of home you find yourself in. —Executive Home Director, Danielle Blundell

Whether you’re using it as extra seating for guests, a cushioned coffee table, or a spot to put your feet up, a pouf or ottoman (especially one with storage) is essential. 

To feel truly cozy at home you need a spot where you feel comfy posting up for hours while reading or catching up on your show, whether that’s a deep sofa or an oversized armchair. 

A side table to set down your coffee mug or coffee table books is a must. Check out this modern coffee table from Article, foldable option from Wayfair, or the best coffee tables in every style from CB2. 

Your mattress needs a home, too — here are some of the best bed frames under $500, including a lift-up storage bed.

The first step toward a good night’s sleep? A mattress that supports you just right. Take a look at AT’s list of the best mattresses, all tested by editors, including our best overall pick.

The Beckham Hotel Collection pillows are not only a favorite of AT editors, but more than 250,000 Amazon reviewers also cosign this recommendation. Not what you’re looking for? Here are some other Amazon pillows editors love, and some of the best pillows overall, according to AT editors.

If you don’t have a closet, consider a freestanding wardrobe or a garment rack.

They say the “devil is in the details,” but when it comes to decorating you won’t find that to be the case. Adding accessories, textiles, lighting, and a few functional objects to your rooms might be the most fun you have furnishing. These items truly make a home feel like it’s an expression of you — especially if you gravitate towards the colors, patterns, materials, and styles that make you feel cozy and happy. —Executive Home Director, Danielle Blundell

If you need a guide on how to buy bath towels, start here. Some AT editor favorites include this Quince fast-drying towel bundle and these Serena & Lily Turkish cotton towels.

These Weezie hand towels are so perfect that one AT editor referred to them as the “Goldilocks of hand towels.”

Is there anything better than crawling into a bed made with soft, freshly laundered sheets? Check out some of the best editor-tested sheets here, including the best overall pick: Sleep Number True Temp Sheet Set .

Take a look at this list of the best comforters AT editors have tested, from the Buffy Breeze Comforter to the luxe Cozy Earth Bamboo Viscose Comforter. 

Stepping out of the shower onto cold tile is so disappointing. Consult AT’s list of the best bath mats and equip your bathroom with a cute non-slip towel mat or a sleek stone mat. 

You never know when you might need a flower vase. And if you want your cut flowers to stay fresh longer, pop them in the fridge overnight! 

Your coffee table will thank you. There are so many ways to DIY your own coasters and so many chic options to shop, like these scalloped coasters from Magnolia. 

Unless you’re in the business of never hanging any curtains or blinds, you’re going to want to put up some window treatments around your home. 

You might need more clocks in your home than you think, whether that’s a smart alarm clock or a retro wall clock. 

Invest in a large mirror, then consult these ideas for how to use mirrors to make your space shine (and feel so much bigger).

Especially if you are anti “Big Light,” you’re going to want some lamps at home, like this smart one.

From Wayfair to Ruggable, there are tons of great places to shop for rugs online. 

Art can take a space from bland blank walls to something full of life and personality — here are some wall decor ideas to get you started, including hanging up some string lights!

Getting organized can feel daunting, but let me tell you a secret: an organized home doesn’t have to be picture perfect (think: stark white, filled with identical bins, and color-coded). It should be 100% realistic, using tools and systems you can actually manage. Below, we help you kick start your organization journey with some essential tools, but it’s totally yours to craft and build up! —Lifestyle Director, Stephanie Nguyen

This is essential for keeping things separated, organized, and tidy. You can pick something that’s clear or opaque, with a lid or without, big or small — the list goes on. Just make sure you have something that you can use to store things in. This is our favorite storage basket by far.

It’s important to invest in a filing system that works for you, so any important paperwork (like your taxes) don’t go missing. Consider an actual filing cabinet, an organizer, or even a simple DIY that’ll help you streamline your papers. 

Nothing says “getting organized” like a to-do list. Whether you prefer a simple pen and paper, stylish notebook, or digital note taking — choose your favorite way to track your tasks.

It’s a key organizational tool — perfect for anyone who likes to decant pantry goods or has a number of cords in a drawer. Don’t have a label maker? That’s OK. You can also use tape and a permanent maker! (Or even bread tags for cords!) 

Even if you don’t live in a small space, storage bags — especially vacuum ones — are crucial space-savers anyone can benefit from having in their home.

You’ll want to add some storage to your entryway or closet for your array of coats and hats. Here are 17 clever ideas, including adding a garment rack.

Whether you prefer to have your shoes out in the open or tucked away in a closet, a shoe rack is an important element in getting them organized. If you have limited space, this one is a great find.

You can use a lazy Susan anywhere — in the kitchen to hold sauce bottles, in the bathroom to hold shampoo and conditioners, under the sink to hold cleaning supplies, and even in the fridge (yes, the fridge!) to hold condiments and other items.

It’s an organizing workhorse, especially this classic IKEA one.

Even if you don’t own a nightstand, having some bedside storage is a key part of an organized bedroom. Consider utilizing your under-the-bed area to store things, too! 

If you’ve ever been caught in a power outage without a flashlight, you know it pays to be prepared. And you don’t need an underground bunker to cover your bases — keeping a few in-case-of-emergency supplies on hand will give you peace of mind and keep you safer at home. —Editor, Dorm Therapy and Special Features, Sofia Rivera

Invest in highly rated smoke alarms, and don’t ignore them if they start chirping!

You need a good carbon monoxide detector at home, and Editor-in-Chief Charli Penn even recommends bringing one with you on vacation. 

Any candles can be emergency candles in a pinch, but having a pack of long-burn candles reserved for power outages is wise.

To light those candles! These can be cute custom matches, the matchbooks you’ve collected from restaurants, or a glass match cloche.

This first-aid kit comes with everything you can think of — 299 pieces, to be exact — from gauze and bandages to tweezers and antibiotic ointment. It’s useful to have everything in one place so you can easily toss it in your car or suitcase when you’re on the go. 

If you injure your finger, a finger splint can help immobilize it while it heals. 

You never know when you might need a bandage — I always keep a box of Band-Aids in my medicine cabinet.

If you suffer a deeper cut, you’ll need some gauze pads and cloth tape. (Be sure to follow these tips for cleaning your kitchen knives safely!)

In case of a power outage, you don’t want to have to rely on your phone flashlight (you’ll probably need to preserve your phone battery), so be sure to have a flashlight on hand. 

When an ache strikes unexpectedly, you don’t want to have to run out for an over-the-counter painkiller (like ibuprofen, aspirin, or acetaminophen). Keep a bottle at home and spare yourself the headache (literally). 

Should the power go out, you’ll want to have a hand-crank charger or another way to charge your phone and other devices. 

Everyone needs a fire extinguisher somewhere at home (and be sure to check it on a regular basis).

An umbrella is a necessity, and I can’t tell you how many I’ve had to buy over the years — but nearly 54,000 Amazon reviewers praise the durability of this lightweight umbrella.

In case of emergency, be sure to have a stash of bottled water and/or a personal water purifier like LifeStraw on hand. 

Keep a stash of emergency food that won’t perish somewhere in your home, like canned food or freeze-dried rations. This emergency food is sold in quantities ranging from 72 hours to one year. 

You never know when you might need some batteries. When they need replacing, here’s how to safely dispose of the old batteries.

If you need to signal for help, this emergency whistle will help you be heard. 

Even if you don’t have a lawn, you might have a stoop, sidewalk, balcony, or bit of the park you love, and these outdoor essentials will make life outside your home a little easier. —Former Home Projects Editor, Sarah Everett

To really make use of your outdoor space — al fresco happy hour to wind down, perhaps? — you need somewhere to sit. Here are some places to shop for affordable outdoor furniture that looks great, including this three-piece set from Amazon.

Outdoor pillows are made to withstand the mildew, sun fading, and other weather wear that your delicately embroidered inside pillows just couldn’t. These garden-themed throw pillows have earned a 4.6-star rating from over 4,700 Amazon reviews.

Nothing ends an evening outside more quickly than a persistent swarm of mosquitos. Although citronella candles aren’t extremely effective on their own, Lifestyle Director Stephanie Nguyen (who is a lifelong mosquito magnet) has a tried-and-true system for repelling mosquitoes, including using a mosquito repellent device.

Sun’s out, sunscreen’s on. This Supergoop Play Everyday lotion is an AT favorite. (Did you know you can even use sunscreen to clean hard-to-remove Sharpie marks?) 

Give your yard a makeover with an outdoor rug — Walmart has lots of affordable options, including this one with a coastal design.

The key to making your outdoor area feel like a true living space is twinkly mood lighting. If you don’t want to pay full price, try putting a call out for them in your local Buy Nothing group, or looking on Facebook Marketplace. 

Create the cutest balcony garden with just a handful of potted plants, some of which you can find for cheap at IKEA. Not sure where to start? Check out this encyclopedia of houseplants to learn more about where they thrive and how to care for them. 

For all of those thriving plants, of course! Here’s a neat trick to make a brand-new terracotta pot look antique with just Garden Lime and some paint. 

As therapeutic as it can be to literally touch grass, gardening gloves can save your hands from irritation and injury. 

Keep your plants happy and hydrated by watering them on a consistent basis — and a hose makes that a whole lot easier. Lifestyle Director Stephanie Nguyen has sung the praises of this retractable garden hose. 

For watering houseplants and other jobs that don’t require pulling out the garden hose, it’s helpful to have a watering can on deck. 

Although weeds can be pretty in a certain context, they can also put a major damper on a home’s curb appeal. Here are some household products you can use to kill weeds, or you can also buy a weed killer like Roundup.

If you have a swath of grass, make your life easier by investing in a good lawn mower (and maybe an edger, while you’re at it). 

If you have grass you need to water, be sure to heed these tips for watering your lawn (or swap out your lawn for one of these grass-free alternatives, such as microclover). 

When your rake just isn’t cutting it anymore, a leaf blower can get the job done.