Moving out and living alone for the first time can be intimidating, but if you prepare right, it can be a fun adventure and a great season of your life. Between cleaning, interior decorating, and everything else, living alone for the first time is a great opportunity to learn new things! Read on below for seven helpful things to know when living alone.
Basic household repairs and maintenance
When living on your own, it can be helpful to know how to take care of some basic household repairs so you don’t have to pay a handyman every time you need something fixed. Your landlord may be required to cover certain fixes, but knowing how to fix a leaky faucet, clear a clogged toilet, or clear a jammed garbage disposal can make your life much easier.
Cleaning effectively
Similarly, being able to handle apartment cleaning tasks on your own can help you keep your space functional and clean without having to pay someone else. You should learn how to make DIY cleaning sprays, tackle tough stains on the floor, and deal with mold and bugs. These skills will help you through your whole life whether you live alone or with others, so your first apartment is a perfect place to practice and learn!
Apartment security
Especially when you live alone, taking good precautions for your home security is essential. Consider getting a security system if your landlord allows it or at least getting a simple security camera to watch your car. Additionally, make sure you lock your doors and ask your landlord to replace any locks that aren’t functional.
Saving money
Having an apartment to yourself can be expensive, so it’s important to save money wherever possible. Get used to turning lights off when you aren’t in the room and washing dishes by hand instead of with the dishwasher. When you leave for an extended period of time, turning your heating, air conditioning, or water heater down can help you save money as well.
Decorating
When living on your own, all your interior decorating decisions are up to you! You’ll have the chance to express your taste in whatever way you like. Whether you’re into modern, rustic, boho, or any other style of decor, take some time to learn about interior design and put together your dream apartment. With the right furniture and decorations, even a small apartment can be the perfect place to live.
Cooking
Learning how to prepare and cook healthy meals is a great step to take when living on your own for the first time. It can be easy to just buy frozen and pre-packaged food, but these low-quality foods might leave you feeling heavy instead of refreshed. Try learning to cook basic chicken and potatoes or a quick stir-fry for an easy and healthy meal in a pinch.
Hosting guests
Living alone can provide a lot of benefits, but it’s still nice to be able to have people around sometimes. Since you’re the one who calls the shots in your apartment, you have the freedom and flexibility to do what you want and have whoever you want around you! Whether you’re interested in dating, having casual get-togethers, or throwing huge parties, learning how to be a good host can be a great way to find satisfaction in living alone.
