Housewarming gift list: what you really need in a new home

By Vidmantas Markevičius

A housewarming gift list is a short, shared list of things your new home actually needs: tools, kitchen basics, storage, plants. Guests can then bring something useful instead of the fifth vase. Keep it to 10–20 items at different prices, add a few bigger things as group gifts, and share the link only with guests who ask what to bring.

Moving is expensive, and the first weeks always reveal what's missing: a drill, a colander, enough chairs. A housewarming party is the perfect moment to fill those gaps.

Is a housewarming registry OK?

Yes, if it's low-key. Unlike a wedding, a housewarming isn't a gift occasion by default, so:

don't put the list on the invitation; share it with guests who ask;
keep it practical and affordable;
make it clear that coming is what matters.

New home checklist by room

Kitchen

[ ] Colander, mixing bowls, measuring jug
[ ] Good knife and cutting board
[ ] Baking tray and oven dish
[ ] Kettle and toaster
[ ] Storage containers
[ ] Tea towels
[ ] Bin with lid

Tools & maintenance

[ ] Cordless drill and bit set
[ ] Basic toolbox (hammer, screwdrivers, tape measure, level)
[ ] Step ladder
[ ] Extension cords
[ ] First-aid kit and fire extinguisher

Living & bedroom

[ ] Lamps
[ ] Curtains or blinds
[ ] Cushions and a throw
[ ] Extra bedding and towels for guests
[ ] Shelving or storage boxes

Cleaning & laundry

[ ] Vacuum cleaner (group gift)
[ ] Mop and bucket
[ ] Laundry basket and drying rack
[ ] Iron or steamer

Outdoors & extras

[ ] Plants and pots
[ ] Doormat
[ ] Garden tools (if there's a garden)
[ ] Barbecue (group gift)

First apartment checklist (the essentials)

Moving out for the first time? Start with the things you'll miss on day one: a pan, a pot, plates, cutlery, a kettle, a bin, toilet paper, bedding, towels, a basic toolbox, light bulbs and a first-aid kit. Everything else can come later, or via a housewarming list.

Housewarming gift ideas (for guests)

At a glance
Budget	Ideas
Under €20	a houseplant, good olive oil, a nice candle, a doormat, kitchen herbs
€20–50	a quality cutting board, a toolbox starter set, a throw, a coffee grinder
Group gift	a vacuum, a barbecue, garden furniture, a cordless drill set

Classic and safe: bread and salt (a tradition in many countries), a plant, or a bottle to toast the new home.

Housewarming party etiquette

For hosts:

Invite 1–3 months after moving in, once boxes are unpacked.
Give a short tour, because everyone wants to see the place.
Don't expect gifts, and thank everyone who brings something.

For guests (what to bring to a housewarming):

A small gift is customary but not required.
If the hosts have a list, use it. If not, a plant, food or drink is always welcome.
Avoid big decor items, since taste in a new home is very personal.

FAQ

What do you put on a housewarming gift list?

Practical things the home is missing: kitchen basics, tools, storage, cleaning items, plants, and a few bigger items as group gifts.

Is it rude to have a housewarming registry?

Not if it's low-key. Share it with guests who ask instead of putting it on the invitation.

What should I bring to a housewarming?

A plant, quality food or drink, or something from the hosts' list if they have one. Avoid big decor items.

What do you need for a first apartment?

Basics for day one: cookware, plates, cutlery, kettle, bedding, towels, a toolbox, bin, light bulbs and a first-aid kit.

Make your housewarming list — free, no sign-up.

By Vidmantas Markevičius, founder of Claim A Gift. Updated November 2026.