Moving into your first studio apartment is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel a bit overwhelming. You quickly realize how much your old roommates helped with things you took for granted, like light bulbs, smoke detectors, and even a vacuum. To make your new place feel more like home, here are some must-have gadgets that can really help you out.
A home security system is a worthwhile investment for peace of mind in a new apartment. One easy-to-install option is perfect for renters because it is tool-free to set up. You can place sensors on doors and windows with adhesive strips instead of drilling holes. The starter kit is tailored for small spaces and includes a base station, wireless keypad, one motion sensor, and one entry sensor. You can also buy additional sensors, such as glass-break, water, and temperature sensors, and cameras as needed. There are two monitoring options. You can monitor the system yourself or choose a professional monitoring subscription plan starting at twenty-three dollars per month. This includes twenty-four-seven coverage, so if an alarm is triggered, the company will reach out to you or dispatch the police if you are unreachable.
While on the subject of safety, a smoke detector is essential. A highly regarded smoke and carbon monoxide detector sends alerts directly to your phone. A nice detail is that the sensor is designed to avoid false alarms from things like cooking smoke. Recently, these alarms were enhanced with smart home technology, enabling push notifications through a companion app for added convenience.
A robot vacuum can make cleaning a breeze. Whether you are keeping hardwood floors tidy, deep cleaning couches, or dealing with pet hair, a reputable brand can help. Depending on your needs, you can find new models with fancy features like a floor washing system, hot air drying, and automatic self-emptying. These are pricier, but if you are more budget-conscious, a solid three-in-one option is available at a lower cost and still gets the job done.
Fresh air is important, but if you live in the city, pollution makes it less ideal to open your windows. If neighbors are frequently cooking, you might deal with an odd mix of smells. An air purifier can significantly improve your indoor air quality. One compact device is quite effective, though it is on the pricier side. Its noise level is pleasantly low, and the filter lasts up to five years, so you will not need to purchase replacements often. A convenient app allows you to track air quality.
Without a roommate stirring around at the crack of dawn, waking up can become a challenge. If traditional phone alarms do not work, a sunrise alarm can help. It gently wakes you by gradually increasing the light. It also includes soothing sleep sounds, a bedside light, and a dimmable clock designed not to be disruptive.
If you are sensitive to noise or live in a pet-friendly building with frequent disturbances, a sound machine is perfect. One reliable brand has been a go-to choice for years for drowning out unwanted noise and creating a peaceful environment.
Creating a cozy atmosphere in your first apartment is key, and smart light bulbs offer a great way to customize both brightness and color. An added bonus is that they can be controlled through an app or a voice assistant, making it easy to set the perfect lighting for movie nights, dinner parties, or late-night reading sessions. A trusted brand in smart lighting offers a range of popular products. People appreciate the app’s features, which make it simple to turn lights on and off, adjust their colors, and set up lighting scenes for different times of day. One notable feature lets you upload a photo, and the app will create a new scene based on that color palette. Starter kits are priced from seventy-nine dollars and ninety-nine cents, while a two-pack of bulbs costs around forty-nine dollars and ninety-eight cents.
Smart plugs allow you to control any plugged-in device via a mobile app or voice commands. They provide added convenience, such as turning off your coffee maker while away from home or scheduling when your devices should turn on or off. Plus, they help reduce energy consumption. A great option works with popular smart home ecosystems like Amazon Alexa, Apple Home, and Google Home. This plug allows you not only to turn connected devices on and off but also to dim them as needed. You can control it through a dedicated app.
A lightweight projector that is super compact and stands upright is great for small spaces and easy to tuck away when you are done. Look for models that run on Google TV, which gives you access to over ten thousand apps, seven hundred thousand movies and shows, plus eight hundred free live TV channels. Setting one up is easy if you have a Google account, and it comes with a remote and carrying case.
If you are cooking for yourself in a compact kitchen, an air fryer is invaluable. It allows you to whip up everything from crispy chicken wings to perfectly roasted vegetables while keeping your cooking area tidy. One top choice offers budget-friendly, yet powerful and easy cooking for around seventy-nine dollars.