Essential Household Items to Think of When Renting an Apartment in Montreal

Moving into a new apartment is exciting, but it also comes with a reality check. Many people assume that once the lease is signed, everything else will fall into place. In practice, especially in Montreal, that’s rarely the case. Whether it’s your first apartment, your first time renting in the city, or simply a new place after years in the same unit, being prepared makes the difference between a smooth move and a stressful first week.

This guide focuses on essential household items to think of when renting an apartment in Montreal — not furniture trends or decor inspiration, but the real household essentials for a new apartment that help you live comfortably from day one, stay within a realistic budget, and avoid unnecessary last-minute spending.

What Most Montreal Apartments Do (and Don’t) Include

Most apartments in Montreal come with essential services like electricity hookups, heating systems, and basic kitchen appliances such as a fridge and stove. That’s usually where it ends.

Landlords and even a property management company will rarely provide everyday essential apartment items. Furnished units may include a bed frame, table, or couch, but they almost never include all the essentials needed to actually live.

That means things like cleaning supplies, kitchen tools, bathroom basics, and storage solutions are on you. Knowing this before your apartment search helps you make an informed decision, plan your to do list, and avoid blowing your money during the first week.

Kitchen Essentials You’ll Need Right Away

The kitchen is usually where new renters realize what’s missing. You move in, open the cabinets, and there’s plenty of space, but nothing to cook or eat with.

Some true household essentials for the kitchen include:

• Dish soap, garbage bags, and food storage containers

• Basic kitchen gadgets like wooden spoons, a paring knife, measuring cups, and a baking sheet

• A simple coffee maker if coffee is part of your daily life

• A dish drying rack for apartments without a dishwasher

You don’t need to spend a fortune. Dollar stores, grocery stores, and second-hand options like Facebook Marketplace or garage sales are great ways to save money while covering the basics. The goal isn’t perfection — it’s being able to eat, cook, and function on moving day.

Bedroom & Bedding Essentials (Often Forgotten)

Even furnished rentals often skip what actually matters for sleep. A bed without proper bedding isn’t enough, and many people forget this until their first night.

For your room, plan for:

• Mattress protection and basic bedding

• Pillows and blankets appropriate for the city’s climate

• A solid bed frame if the apartment doesn’t include one

• Simple storage for clothes if closet space is limited

These are essentials for moving into a new apartment that impact your comfort immediately. Sleep affects everything else — from your financial situation to how well you handle the first weeks of rent and work.

Bathroom Items You’ll Need on Day One

Bathrooms are another area where landlords provide almost nothing. Walking into a clean bathroom doesn’t mean it’s usable yet.

Key essential household items for the bathroom include:

• Bath towels

• A shower curtain and hooks

• Toilet paper (often forgotten)

• A toilet plunger

• A basic multi purpose cleaner

These are non-negotiable household essentials for a new apartment. Buying them in advance prevents awkward late-night trips to the store.

Cleaning & Laundry Essentials for Apartments

Montreal apartments vary widely. Some have in-unit laundry, others rely on shared facilities or nearby laundromats. Either way, cleaning is your responsibility.

At minimum, plan for:

• Broom and dustpan

• Cleaning supplies for surfaces and floors

• Laundry basics to keep clothes manageable

• A small dish drying rack and garbage bags

Cleanliness isn’t just about comfort — it affects your lease, your security deposit, and your relationship with the property management company.

Winter-Specific Items for Montreal Apartments

Winter is where Montreal living really tests preparation. Even a great apartment can feel uncomfortable without a few additions.

Winter essential apartment items often include:

• Proper window coverings to reduce drafts

• Entry mats to protect floors from snow and salt

• Extra layers and blankets kept on hand

• Storage solutions for winter clothes

These items help you save on heating costs and protect the house from damage, especially in older buildings.

Lighting, Storage & Small Comfort Upgrades

Older apartments often lack good lighting and built-in storage. Small additions make a big difference.

Think about:

• Extra lamps to define a focal point in the living area

• Extra storage for small apartments

• Multi-use furniture like a coffee table with hidden storage

• Simple tools for quick fixes

These upgrades help turn an apartment into a great place to live, without overspending.

Conclusion

Renting an apartment in Montreal isn’t just about signing a lease and paying the month's rent from your bank account. It’s about planning, understanding what isn’t included, and building a space that supports your daily life.

By thinking ahead, using an apartment checklist, and focusing on essential household items, you can save money, protect your budget, and enjoy your new apartment from the very first day. The perfect place isn’t about having everything — it’s about having what you actually need.

FAQ

What household items do landlords not provide in Montreal?

Most landlords do not provide kitchen tools, cleaning supplies, bathroom basics, storage items, or small household goods. Even furnished rentals usually exclude these essentials.

Do furnished apartments include kitchen supplies?

Rarely. Furnished typically refers to large furniture, not kitchen gadgets like measuring cups, wooden spoons, or a hand mixer. Always plan to shop for these yourself.

What should I buy before moving into an apartment?

Before moving day, focus on essential household items, bedding, bathroom basics, and cleaning tools. Having these on hand makes settling in easier.

Are winter items really necessary in Montreal apartments?

Yes. Montreal winters affect heating, comfort, and even storage. Proper preparation helps you afford winter living without overspending.

What are the most forgotten items when renting an apartment?

Commonly forgotten items include shower curtain, toilet paper, dish soap, garbage bags, lighting, and basic cleaning tools. These small things matter more than they seem.