First Apartment Setup Checklist for Newcomers to Canada

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Moving into your first apartment is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel a bit overwhelming with so much to consider. I remember feeling truly stressed out when setting up my own first apartment after landing in Canada, wondering if I’d thought of everything.

This “First Apartment Setup Checklist for Newcomers to Canada” is designed to cut through the clutter and provide you with a practical, room-by-room guide to essential items, affordable options, and where to find them at Canadian retailers.

While you can certainly find these items across various stores, we’ve focused heavily on Amazon.ca as a convenient option to remove the stress of shopping around multiple unfamiliar places and simplify your initial setup.

By the end of this guide, you’ll feel confident and prepared to create your comfortable new space.

Table of Contents

Bedroom Essentials

When you first arrive, a comfortable and functional bedroom is key to feeling settled. It’s your personal sanctuary after a long day of exploring your new city or navigating Canadian systems. Here’s what you’ll need to make your bedroom cozy and practical, along with smart shopping tips.

Bed Frame + Mattress

Getting good sleep is important for adapting to a new country. Look for memory foam mattresses that ship compressed in a box – they’re often more affordable and incredibly convenient for delivery and setup, especially if you’re living in a smaller apartment. Many newcomers opt for brands available on Amazon Canada.

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Pro Tip: Check for bundles that include a simple metal bed frame with your mattress for extra savings.

Bedding (Sheets, Duvet, Pillows)

Canadian winters can be chilly, so quality bedding isn’t just a comfort – it’s a necessity. Buying bedding in sets (sheets, duvet cover, pillowcases) is usually more cost-effective than purchasing individual items. Consider a versatile duvet with a medium warmth rating that you can use year-round.

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Fun Fact: The average Canadian spends around $150-$300 CAD on a basic bedding set, but you can find great deals during seasonal sales or at big-box retailers like Walmart and Homesense.

Storage Bins / Under-Bed Storage

Canadian apartments, especially in major cities like Toronto, or Vancouver, can be compact. Even cities like mine (Mississauga) have lots of compact apartments. Maximizing your space with smart storage is essential. Under-bed bins, collapsible fabric cubes, and drawer organizers can help keep your clothes and personal items tidy and out of sight.

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For more tips on making the most of compact spaces, check out our article on small apartment Amazon finds.

Nightstand / Lamp

A small nightstand provides a surface for your phone, a glass of water, or a book. Pairing it with a compact lamp can create a warm, inviting atmosphere and offer essential lighting without needing harsh overhead fixtures. IKEA is a popular choice for budget-friendly and versatile small furniture items.

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Moving on, let’s explore how to equip your kitchen to whip up some delicious Canadian meals and comfort food.

Kitchen Essentials

The kitchen is the heart of any home, and setting yours up efficiently will make a big difference in your daily life and budget, especially if you plan to cook at home to save on dining out.

I prefer to mostly cook at home, so this area is very important to me as well. Here’s a breakdown of the must-have items to get your Canadian kitchen ready for action.

Cookware Set (Pots, Pans, Utensils)

You don’t need a gourmet setup, but a basic cookware set will allow you to prepare meals and save money. Look for non-stick options that are easy to clean. A set typically includes a few pots, a frying pan, and essential utensils like a spatula and a ladle.

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Pro Tip: Many Canadian retailers offer “starter” or “dorm” kitchen sets that combine these essentials at a lower price point.

Cooking at home is a great way to manage costs; for more tips, explore meal prepping on a budget.

Dishes (Microwave-Safe Plates, Bowls, Cups)

Opt for durable, microwave-safe dishes that can withstand daily use. Ceramic or tempered glass options are great for longevity. Having a set for 2–4 people is usually sufficient to start. Of course if you have more family members like mine, you definitely need more.

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Electric Kettle / Toaster

These small appliances are Canadian kitchen staples. An electric kettle is perfect for quick tea, coffee, or even instant noodles, while a toaster is a breakfast go-to.

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Fun Fact: Did you know Canadians are among the highest coffee consumers globally? While specific annual consumption varies, coffee remains a beloved beverage across the country. An electric kettle is a quick way to get your caffeine fix or tea, if you prefer that.

Food Storage Containers

Essential for meal prepping, packing lunches, and keeping leftovers fresh. This helps reduce food waste and saves you money in the long run. Look for multi-size sets that are stackable and microwave-safe.

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Cleaning Tools (Sponge, Soap, Dish Rack)

Keeping your kitchen clean is vital. A few basic items like a dish soap, sponges, and a dish rack for air-drying will go a long way.

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Many Canadian stores offer eco-friendly cleaning options, often found at retailers like Well.ca. You can also get cleaning products at Dollaram, Walmart and the likes.

Pro Tip: Many Canadian retailers, including Amazon, Walmart, and Well.ca, offer “newcomer kits” or “apartment bundles” that combine many of these kitchen essentials, often at a discounted price. This can be a smart way to get everything you need without overspending or making multiple trips.

Next up, let’s look at how to make your living room comfortable and get you connected with internet access.

Living Room & Wi-Fi Setup

Your living room is where you’ll relax, entertain, and connect with the world. Even in smaller Canadian apartments, a few key pieces can make this space feel like home. Critically, getting your internet set up promptly is essential for everything from job searching to staying in touch with loved ones back home.

Compact Sofa or Chairs

Maximizing space is vital in many Canadian living situations. Look for a compact sofa, a loveseat, or a couple of comfortable accent chairs that fit your space without overwhelming it. Modular furniture can be a great option, as it offers flexibility.

Pro Tip: Consider secondhand furniture stores or online marketplaces for affordable, gently used furniture to save money.

Coffee Table / Multipurpose Storage Ottoman

A coffee table provides a central surface, but a storage ottoman can be a game-changer for small living areas. It offers a place to rest drinks, put up your feet, and hide away blankets, remotes, or magazines.

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TV or Laptop Stand

Whether you’re watching Canadian shows or connecting with family online, a dedicated stand helps organize your electronics and keeps wires tidy. Simple, minimalist designs are often best for smaller spaces.

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Internet Setup: Choose a Plan Before You Move In

This is arguably one of the most important setup steps. Having internet access from day one makes everything else easier. Research providers like Telus, Rogers, Virgin Mobile, or Fido before you get your keys.

Some companies often offer special newcomer plans. Setting up your internet often requires booking an installation appointment, so doing this in advance can prevent delays.

Reliable internet is also crucial for researching public transit options in your new city or understanding how utility bills might be structured in your building.

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Fun Fact: In 2023, 94% of Canadian households had internet access, highlighting how essential this service is across the country.

Compare Internet Providers Here and find the best plan for your new home.

Next, let’s make sure your bathroom is ready with all the necessary comforts and conveniences.

Bathroom Must-Haves

A functional and clean bathroom is essential for your comfort and hygiene in your new Canadian apartment. While often overlooked, having these basic items ready will make a big difference in your daily routine.

Towels + Bathmat

Soft towels are a daily necessity. It’s practical to have at least two sets of towels (bath, hand, and face) per person so you always have a clean set ready. A bathmat prevents slips and keeps your bathroom floor dry. Look for multi-packs to save money.

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Pro Tip: Shop their online sale section for discounts on basics and winter essentials.

Shower Curtain + Rings

Unless your apartment comes with a glass shower door, a shower curtain is a must-have for privacy and to keep water inside the shower. Don’t forget the rings to hang it!

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Toilet Brush and Plunger

These might not be glamorous, but they are absolutely essential for basic bathroom maintenance and addressing minor clogs. Trust us, you’ll be glad you have them when you need them, which might be many times because of the way Canadian WCs are done (or at least in the condo I live in).

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Starter Cleaning Supplies (Multi-Surface Spray, Toilet Cleaner)

Keeping your bathroom sparkling clean contributes to a healthy home environment. A multi-surface spray is versatile for counters and sinks, while a dedicated toilet cleaner ensures hygiene. You can often find small starter kits at grocery stores or dollar stores.

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While we love a clean home, nobody loves talking about plungers! But a little preparation goes a long way in avoiding future headaches.

Up next, we’ll dive into the broader cleaning and laundry supplies you’ll need to keep your entire apartment fresh and tidy.

Cleaning & Laundry Supplies

Keeping your new Canadian apartment clean and fresh is key to a comfortable living environment. Having the right tools for cleaning and laundry from the start will make these chores much easier.

Broom/Dustpan or Swiffer

For everyday dust and debris, a simple broom and dustpan are effective. Alternatively, a Swiffer provides a quick and easy way to clean hard floors, especially for light messes.

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Many Canadian apartments have a mix of hard flooring and carpets, so having tools for both is practical.

Mop or Spray Mop

For a deeper clean on hard floors, a traditional mop and bucket or a convenient spray mop is essential. Spray mops are often preferred for their ease of use and minimal water requirement.

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Laundry Basket + Detergent

If your building has shared laundry facilities or you have an in-suite machine, a laundry basket is crucial for transporting your clothes. Don’t forget to pick up some laundry detergent—many Canadian brands offer concentrated formulas that last longer.

Fun Fact: The classic Canadian “toque” (winter hat) is surprisingly durable, but even it needs a good wash now and then!

Garbage Bags + Bins

Essential for managing household waste. Even though you get more bags from grocery shopping that can be used for garbage. Familiarize yourself with your building’s garbage and recycling rules, as Canadian municipalities often have specific sorting requirements.

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We know there’s a lot to remember when setting up your first place. To help you keep track of everything, we’ll have a downloadable checklist PDF available soon to capture emails and ensure you don’t miss a thing!

Now that your new apartment is sparkling clean, let’s look at a few bonus items that will make your life in Canada even easier.

Bonus Section: Other Things You’ll Need

Beyond the main rooms, a few extra items will make your life in your new Canadian apartment much smoother and more convenient. These often get overlooked but can be incredibly useful!

Basic Toolkit

A small toolkit with a hammer, screwdriver set, pliers, and a tape measure can be invaluable for assembling furniture, hanging pictures, or tightening loose screws. It’s a small investment that saves you from needing to call for help for minor fixes.

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Pro Tip: Look for multi-bit screwdrivers to save space and cover various screw types.

Extension Cords + Power Bar

With all your new electronics, you’ll likely need more outlets than your apartment provides. Extension cords and power bars are essential for safely plugging in multiple devices and protecting them from power surges.

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SIM Card / Cell Phone Plan

Staying connected is paramount, especially as a newcomer. You’ll need a Canadian SIM card and a cell phone plan to make calls, access data for navigation, and communicate with potential employers or new friends. Research providers like Virgin Plus, Fido, Koodo, or Freedom Mobile, as they often have competitive plans for new customers.

Your Canadian phone number is often required when you first register for essential newcomer services and apply for your Social Insurance Number (SIN), a vital step for working in Canada.

Many new immigrants prioritize getting a local phone number right away, and rightly so! It’s often a requirement for job applications and setting up other services.

Bank Account

Opening a Canadian bank account is one of the first and most crucial steps for newcomers. It allows you to receive your salary, pay bills, and manage your daily finances securely. Many major Canadian banks offer special welcome packages for newcomers, sometimes including fee waivers or even cash bonuses.

Establishing a bank account is a foundational step in building your financial literacy and a Canadian credit history, which will be important for everything from future apartment rentals to buying a car. Many banks also provide resources on budgeting, acting as a helpful budgeting tool for new arrivals.

Imagine trying to pay your rent in loonies and toonies! A bank account is definitely the way to go.

Having these practical items on hand will help you feel more organized and prepared for daily life in Canada. Next, we’ll answer some frequently asked questions about setting up your first apartment.

Important Considerations for Your Canadian Apartment

Beyond gathering your essentials, understanding a few key aspects of renting in Canada will significantly ease your transition.

Understanding Your Lease & Tenant Rights: Before you sign any document, it is important to thoroughly read your lease agreement. This legally binding document outlines your responsibilities as a tenant and your landlord’s obligations. Familiarizing yourself with your provincial tenant rights (which vary slightly across Canada) will empower you and protect you throughout your tenancy. Also, be aware of lease agreement red flags.
Rental Insurance: While not always mandatory, securing rental insurance is highly recommended and often a requirement by landlords. It’s an affordable way to protect your personal belongings from unforeseen events like fire or theft, and it also provides liability coverage, giving you peace of mind in your new home.
Winter Preparedness for Your Home: If you’re arriving during the colder months, your apartment itself plays a role in winter preparedness. Understand how your heating system works, how to properly insulate windows if needed, and factor heating costs into your utility bills. These steps are part of adapting to Canadian seasons and managing your budget effectively.
Settling Services & Resources: Don’t forget that free settling services are available across Canada through various non-profit and government-funded organizations. They can offer guidance on everything from understanding your lease to connecting with community resources, making your apartment setup and overall integration smoother.

Getting an apartment setup in a new country often comes with a few common questions. Here are direct answers to some frequent queries newcomers have:

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get furniture delivered in Canada without a credit card?

Yes, many Canadian retailers offer alternative payment options like debit, cash, or even financing plans, especially for larger purchases. Services like Amazon Canada also accept debit cards and gift cards for online orders, often with direct-to-door delivery.

Where do newcomers usually shop for apartment items?

Newcomers often find affordable and practical apartment essentials at big-box stores like Walmart, Canadian Tire, IKEA, and Homesense. Online marketplaces such as Amazon Canada and Facebook Marketplace are also popular for new and second-hand items.

Can I rent without furniture and buy slowly?

Absolutely! Most rental apartments in Canada are unfurnished, allowing you to purchase items at your own pace and budget. Starting with essential bedroom and bathroom items and gradually adding furniture is a common approach for newcomers.

Conclusion

Moving into your first apartment in Canada is a truly significant milestone, and while it might seem daunting, there’s no need to stress. By focusing on the essentials first, utilizing this comprehensive checklist, and shopping smart through trusted Canadian platforms like Amazon to minimize stress, you’ll set yourself up for success.

We hope this guide helps you transform your new space into a comfortable and welcoming home. Be sure to bookmark this guide for future reference or share it with a friend who’s also planning their Canadian apartment setup!