So you’re all moved into your new apartment, boxes are stacked in every room, now what do you do? Unpacking your apartment can be overwhelming. Where do you start? How do you avoid getting completely overwhelmed? We are here to help with Unpacking 101: Where to Start Unpacking Your Apartment.
 A great place to start is with your first night box. What does that mean? A first night box will include all of the basics you’ll need to get started in your new home.  When unpacking your apartment, start with your first night box to get things rolling. A first night box includes items for:
- Home cleaning and maintenance: It’s always a good idea to have some basic cleaning items like surface cleaners, dish soaps and trash bags. Plus any tools for any furniture assembly you might have, like hammers, screwdrivers and a small picture hanging kit.
- Food, drink and kitchen basics: you’re probably not going to cook a big meal on your first night, but having smaller snacks like granola bars, fruit and water is a good idea. Also bring dining basics like paper plates, napkins, plastic cups and silverware.
-  Hygiene basics and medications: toothpaste, soap and shampoo. Toilet paper, towels and sheets are something you’ll definitely want to have around the first night. If you have any prescription medications, pack those items. You’ll also want to bring a basic first aid kit and band aids.
Before Starting: Take care of Pets and Kids
Kiddos and pets can be a distraction while unpacking, not to mention having little ones and animals running around among boxes isn’t always safe. If you can, make arrangements for your kids and pets to stay with a sitter. If you can’t find a sitter or a playdate, get your kids set up with a game in one area of the home where they’ll be out of the way. If you don’t have friends or family nearby, check for local pet care providers. Many places offer daily kennel services.
Start with the necessities:
Get your bedroom set up first.
At the end of the day, you’ll be grateful when your bed is already good to go for flopping into. Don’t get bogged down with unpacking all of your clothing items – that can be overwhelming. Get your bed set up, and then get to the other rooms.
Bathroom basics.
Hang a shower curtain, fill the medicine cabinet and hang up your towels. This is one quick and easy way to make your new apartment feel like home right away.
The kitchen essentials.
The kitchen can require a lot of boxes, so getting through your kitchen will lessen the amount of boxes you have, and will make you feel better. Get your pots, pans, dishes and silverware out when you begin unpacking your apartment.
Divide and Conquer
If you aren’t moving in alone, but your family (or friends) to work. Assign each other a different room and get unpacking. Don’t get caught up in organization. You’ll end up rearranging and moving things around once you’re situated in a place. Just get in, open the boxes and start putting items out.
Decorate Later
Curtains, art, and decorative items can wait. Get all of the essentials out and unpacked before worrying about the fun items.
There you have it! This is our nifty unpacking guide to help you get settled in your new apartment. What do you think? What tips would you give to a family member or friend that just moved into a new place? Be sure to download our first night box checklist for your next move. Let us know in the comment section below and as always, stay tuned to our blog for all things eat, shop and play.
