Moving into your first studio apartment can be exciting but also a bit overwhelming. You quickly realize how much your old roommates contributed to everyday life, from light bulbs to smoke detectors and vacuums.
To help make your new place feel like home, here are some essential gadgets that can really assist.
SimpliSafe Home Security System — $282.94
Investing in a home security system is smart for your peace of mind in a new apartment. SimpliSafe offers an easy-to-install setup ideal for renters. It requires no tools, making it simple to attach sensors on doors and windows using adhesive strips.
The starter kit is designed for small spaces and includes everything necessary for basic home security: a base station, a wireless keypad, one motion sensor, and one entry sensor. You can also purchase extra sensors, like glass-break, water, and temperature sensors, along with cameras as needed.
SimpliSafe provides two monitoring options: you can either keep an eye on things yourself or choose professional monitoring for a subscription starting at $23 per month. This includes round-the-clock coverage, so if an alarm goes off, SimpliSafe will contact you or even alert the police if you’re unreachable.
Kidde Smart Smoke Detector — $74.97
A smoke detector is crucial. Kidde’s Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector is well-reviewed and stands out because it sends alerts directly to your phone. Plus, it’s designed to minimize false alarms, like those from cooking smoke.
Recently, Kidde enhanced its alarms using Amazon’s Ring technology, allowing you to receive push notifications through the Ring app for added convenience.
Eufy Robot Vacuum
A robot vacuum can simplify your cleaning routine. Whether you need to keep your hardwood floors tidy, deep clean your couch, or tackle pet hair, Eufy is a reliable brand to consider.
You’ll find various models, like the E28, which features a HydroJet system for washing floors, hot air drying, and automatic self-emptying, priced at around $1,399.99. If you’re looking for something more affordable, the 3-in-1 E20 is available for $649.99 and effectively gets the job done.
Dyson’s HushJet Purifier — $349.99
Having fresh air is essential, but city living can make it tough to open windows due to pollution or cooking smells from neighbors. An air purifier can greatly enhance your indoor air quality.
This compact Dyson device is effective, although it’s on the pricier side. It operates quietly, and many appreciate that its filter lasts up to five years, meaning you won’t need to replace it often. Plus, it comes with an app to monitor air quality.
Hatch Sunrise Alarm — $169.99
Without a roommate stirring around in the morning, waking up can pose a challenge. If traditional alarms don’t work for you, check out the Hatch Restore 3. This sunrise alarm gently wakes you by gradually increasing light, and it also includes soothing sleep sounds, a bedside light, and a dimmable clock that’s designed to be non-disruptive.
Yogasleep Sound Machine — $54.99
If you’re sensitive to noise or reside in a pet-friendly building with frequent disturbances, a sound machine is a perfect addition. Yogasleep is a trusted brand for creating a calm environment by drowning out unwanted noise.
Philips Hue Smart Lights
Creating a cozy atmosphere in your apartment is key, and smart light bulbs let you personalize brightness and color. Notably, you can control them through an app or voice assistant, making it easy to set the mood for movie nights, dinner parties, or late-night reading.
Philips Hue is a well-known brand in smart lighting offering popular products. Users appreciate the app’s features, allowing easy on/off control, color adjustments, and setting up different lighting scenes. Starter kits begin at $79.99, while a two-pack of bulbs is around $49.98.
Leviton’s Smart Dimmer Plug — $24.99
Smart plugs enable you to control any device plugged into them via a mobile app or voice commands, offering additional convenience, such as turning off your coffee maker from afar or scheduling when your devices should operate. Plus, they help conserve energy.
The Leviton Decora D23LP smart plug works with popular smart home systems like Amazon Alexa, Apple Home, and Google Home. This plug lets you not only switch connected devices on and off but also dim them as needed, controllable via the My Leviton app.
Lumi Max Portable Projector — $399
A lightweight, compact projector is perfect for small spaces and easy to store away. Look for models running on Google TV, granting access to over 10,000 apps, 700,000 movies, and shows, plus 800 free live TV channels. Setup is simple with a Google account, and the projector comes with a remote and carrying case.
Ninja Air Fryer — $79
If you’re cooking for yourself in a small kitchen, an air fryer is invaluable. It enables you to whip up everything from crispy chicken wings to perfectly roasted veggies while keeping your cooking area neat. The Ninja Air Fryer is an excellent choice for budget-friendly yet effective cooking.
