The first evening in a new home can be overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. At Sorensen Moving & Storage, we recommend assembling a First Night Essentials Kit: a single, clearly marked container filled with your family’s go-to items for the first night in your new space. Rather than digging through sealed boxes, you’ll have easy access to the basics—cleaning supplies, snacks, bedding, toiletries, and more—so you can relax and recharge after move-in day.
✅ First Night Essentials Checklist
🧽 Cleaning & Setup Gear ☐ Multipurpose cleaner or wipes ☐ One roll of paper towels ☐ Trash bags (strong/heavy-duty) ☐ Gloves (for unpacking/cleaning) ☐ Toolkit with screwdrivers, pliers, utility knife ☐ Battery-powered flashlight or headlamp ☐ A few spare light bulbs ☐ Packing tape and scissors
🥤 Snacks & Beverages ☐ Drinking water (enough for each household member) ☐ Easy-to-eat foods (protein bars, crackers, nuts) ☐ Paper or plastic dishes and silverware ☐ Napkins or moist towelettes ☐ Bottle/can opener
🛌 Sleeping Arrangements ☐ Full set of bed linens per person ☐ Pillows and blanket ☐ Air mattress or sleeping bags (as needed) ☐ Sleepwear and comfy clothes ☐ Clothes for the next day
🧼 Toiletries & Bath Supplies ☐ Towels (bath and hand) ☐ Toothbrushes and toothpaste ☐ Soap or body wash ☐ Shampoo and conditioner ☐ Toilet tissue (2 rolls or more) ☐ Brush or comb ☐ Shower liner/curtain if necessary ☐ First-aid items (band-aids, ointment, pain relief)
📱 Personal Items & Electronics ☐ Phone and charger ☐ Multi-plug power strip ☐ Daily medication ☐ Identification, house keys, wallet ☐ Something for entertainment (e.g., tablet, book)
👧 Children & Pets ☐ Favorite bedtime toy or comfort object ☐ Pet food, leash, feeding bowls, cleanup bags ☐ Cat-friendly disposable litter box ☐ Extra outfits or jammies for young kids
Get your printer-friendly version of the First Night Essentials Checklist!
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