Moving into a new apartment—especially after using long distance moving services — can feel overwhelming and a little disorienting. You’ve finally arrived, your belongings are in boxes, and the echo of empty walls makes it clear: this isn’t “home” just yet. But with a little planning and intention, you can turn that blank slate into a cozy, personalized space in just 48 hours.
Here’s how to make your new apartment feel like home quickly, so you can start enjoying your space without waiting weeks or months.
Day 1: Create Comfort Through Function and Familiarity
1. Prioritize the Essentials
Before you do anything else, unpack the must-haves: bedding, basic toiletries, dishes, and clothes for the next couple of days. Creating a comfortable and functional living environment right away makes a huge difference when settling into a new apartment.
Set up your bed first—it not only gives you a place to rest after a long day, but it also gives your bedroom an instant feeling of comfort. Add your usual sheets, favorite pillows, and a cozy blanket to immediately make the space feel familiar.
2. Unpack Personal Touches Early
Don’t leave meaningful items in boxes until everything else is done. Unpack a few photos, keepsakes, or decorative pieces you love. These items offer emotional comfort and help you feel at home in a new place. Whether it’s a framed photo of family, your favorite coffee mug, or a throw blanket from your old couch—these touches help your new apartment feel lived in right away.
3. Set Up One “Complete” Space
Choose one room or corner to fully complete within the first 24 hours. It could be your bedroom, living room seating area, or kitchen nook. Seeing one area completely finished can give you a much-needed mental boost and a sense of progress.
Day 2: Add Style and Structure
4. Use Simple Apartment Decorating Tips
You don’t have to hang everything on the walls or buy new furniture to decorate effectively. Instead, focus on quick wins:
- Throw pillows and rugs soften a space and add color instantly.
- Lighting makes a big difference—use table lamps or string lights to create warmth.
- Removable wall hooks and adhesive strips let you hang art without damaging walls.
Small aesthetic choices go a long way when you’re trying to personalize your apartment fast.
5. Get Your Kitchen Functional
Even if you love takeout, having a basic kitchen setup makes your apartment feel more like home. Unpack your dishes, utensils, a pot or pan, and stock up on coffee, snacks, and your go-to comfort foods.
Eating at home—even something simple—helps solidify your new routine and supports a sense of belonging in your space.
6. Tackle the Bathroom and Closet
Having an organized bathroom and closet makes your daily routine feel smoother. Hang your towels, lay out your toiletries, and set up your laundry basket. Organize your clothes enough so you’re not digging through boxes each morning. These practical moves make life feel normal fast.
Bonus: Mental Tricks to Feel at Home Faster
Sometimes, it’s not about the furniture or decor—it’s about shifting your mindset.
Play Music or Light a Candle
Scent and sound are powerful triggers for memory and mood. Playing your favorite playlist or lighting a candle that reminds you of your old home can help you feel settled emotionally, not just physically.
Invite Someone Over or Make a Call
Even if you’re still surrounded by unpacked boxes, invite a friend over for coffee or FaceTime with family. Human connection, even briefly, can ground you and help the place feel lived-in and welcoming.
Use a Moving Day Apartment Checklist
Before you even arrive, having a solid moving day apartment checklist ensures you’re not scrambling for basics. Include things like toilet paper, cleaning supplies, snacks, chargers, a shower curtain, and tools. The fewer urgent errands you have to run in the first 48 hours, the more relaxed and at home you’ll feel.
Final Thoughts
Turning a new space into a comforting retreat doesn’t have to take weeks. With a plan, some personal touches, and a focus on comfort, you can truly make your new apartment feel like home within just two days. Whether you moved across town or used long distance moving services to relocate across the country, the process of settling in is the same—center yourself in the familiar, organize smartly, and don’t forget the power of scent, sound, and connection.
In just 48 hours, your apartment won’t just be a new address—it’ll be your new home.