Residential Construction · Necessities
Now you've successfully rented an apartment!
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the empty apartment and unfamiliar shops?
Don't worry, this page will help you efficiently manage the basics.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the empty apartment and unfamiliar shops?
Don't worry, this page will help you efficiently manage the basics.
Create a comfortable bedroom
A good rest environment is the basis for adventure.
\It will make you full of energy every day.
Canadian rentals are categorized as either "furnished" or "unfurnished."
Look around and choose the right items based on your needs.
Bedding
- Mattress and bed frame
- Sheets
- Pillows
- Quilt and blankets
Brief:
- You can consider IKEA bed frame and mattress. There is a Toronto Downtown IKEA at 382 Yonge St.
- Pay attention to the size (Twin, Double, Queen) and find out the size of your bed in advance.
- The temperature difference between seasons in Toronto is significant, so prepare quilts of different thicknesses.
Shopping Tips:
Walmart and IKEA offer great value for basic sets.
( Walmart is located far from the city center, so if you need something urgently, you can opt for a smaller IKEA store in the city center.)
It's recommended to download the store's app or follow the official website for up-to-date information on promotions and discounts.
Both channels offer furniture delivery services, so be sure to verify your personal information.
( Walmart is located far from the city center, so if you need something urgently, you can opt for a smaller IKEA store in the city center.)
It's recommended to download the store's app or follow the official website for up-to-date information on promotions and discounts.
Both channels offer furniture delivery services, so be sure to verify your personal information.
Equip Your Bathroom
A functional bathroom helps start and end each day feeling refreshed and organized.
Even if you rent a furnished unit, personal and hygiene items still need to be prepared.
Essentials
- Shower setup
- Towels & mats
- Cleaning tools
- Trash can with lid
- Personal hygiene items
Brief:
- Most unfurnished apartments do not include shower curtains or mats.
- In shared bathrooms(if you have roomate), consider using a shower caddy for easy transport.
- Keep the bathroom well-ventilated to prevent mold.
Shopping Tips:
Superstores like Walmart and Canadian Tire offer affordable everyday essentials,
making them great choices when you want to buy everything in one trip.
(These large retailers usually have lower prices.)
Dollarama offers extremely low-cost basics.
Drugstores like Shoppers Drug Mart and Rexall are perfect for buying personal care and hygiene products.
(They are everywhere in Toronto and open late, but the prices are usually higher than supermarkets.)
(These large retailers usually have lower prices.)
Dollarama offers extremely low-cost basics.
Drugstores like Shoppers Drug Mart and Rexall are perfect for buying personal care and hygiene products.
(They are everywhere in Toronto and open late, but the prices are usually higher than supermarkets.)
Great!
Now that you've fully stocked your bedroom and bathroom essentials.
Let's head to the living room and kitchen to see what else we need!
Prepare Your Living Room
The living room is your space to relax, entertain, and create.
Keep it functional yet cozy, especially if you'll also use it for studying or working.
Furniture Basics
- Seating
- Tables and Lighting
- Storage and Organization
- Comfort and Atmosphere
- Practical Essentials
Brief:
- If space is tight, consider foldable or multi-functional furniture.
- Check if windows already have coverings; many rentals do not include curtains.
- Avoid large furniture if you move frequently; lightweight and modular options are easier to handle.
Shopping Tips:
IKEA and Structube offer modern, affordable furniture ideal for small spaces.
Facebook Marketplace and Kijiji are great for second-hand finds (sofas, tables, shelves).
Look for "student move-in" sales in late August and early September.
Facebook Marketplace and Kijiji are great for second-hand finds (sofas, tables, shelves).
Look for "student move-in" sales in late August and early September.
Set Up Your Kitchen
A well-prepared kitchen brings warmth and ease to everyday cooking.
Even a small space can feel complete and inviting when it has the right essentials.
Even a small space can feel complete and inviting when it has the right essentials.
What to prepare
- Cookware and Basic Tools
- Dining Essentials
- Food Prep and Storage
- Cleaning Supplies
- Waste and Recycling
Brief:
- Most rentals include a stove and refrigerator, but always confirm before moving in.
- Small appliances like a microwave, kettle, or toaster are often not provided in unfurnished units.
- A few cooking tools, basic dining items, simple storage supplies, and easy cleaning essentials are enough to keep a small kitchen functional and organized.
- Consider energy-efficient appliances to help manage electricity bills.
General Tips for Furnishing Your Space:
Measure your room and door widths before buying furniture.
Start with the items you will need right away such as a bed, a shower curtain, and basic cookware.
Look for second hand options since thrift stores, online marketplaces, and student groups often offer good deals.
Keep your receipts and warranties because they help with returns or repairs, especially for big items.
Start with the items you will need right away such as a bed, a shower curtain, and basic cookware.
Look for second hand options since thrift stores, online marketplaces, and student groups often offer good deals.
Keep your receipts and warranties because they help with returns or repairs, especially for big items.