Apartment living comes with its own set of challenges, whether it’s limited space, noisy neighbors, or figuring out how to personalize your new home. But with a little planning and creativity, it’s possible to turn your apartment into a cozy, functional space that truly feels like home.

Here are 10 apartment living tips to help you thrive in your space:

1. Make Small Spaces Feel Bigger

Apartments are often tight on square footage, but there are plenty of ways to make your space feel larger and more open. First, declutter. You’ll be amazed at how much bigger your apartment feels when it isn’t packed with things you don’t need.

Use vertical space wherever you can—think shelves, hooks, and tall bookcases. Consider multi-functional furniture, like ottomans with storage inside or a bed with built-in drawers. A few mirrors placed strategically can also reflect light and give the illusion of more space.

Quick Tips:

• Use light-colored paint or decor to open up a room.
• Hang curtains higher to make ceilings look taller.
• Invest in foldable furniture that can be stored away when not in use.

2. Noise Reduction Hacks

Living in close quarters with other people can be noisy, whether it’s your neighbors above you or the street traffic below. Noise can quickly become one of the biggest annoyances in apartment living. But there are ways to cut down on the sounds you hear—and the sounds you make.

Rugs are a simple solution to reduce noise between floors. Adding thick curtains can also help absorb sound from outside, while foam weatherstripping around doors and windows can block out a lot of street noise. 

If you’re dealing with noisy neighbors, consider white noise machines or noise-canceling headphones to help you focus or sleep better.

Quick Tips:

• Use heavy curtains to dampen sound.
• Add area rugs or carpet to reduce floor noise.
• Talk to your neighbors politely if noise becomes an issue—sometimes a quick conversation solves the problem.

3. Storage Solutions for Small Apartments

One of the toughest parts about apartment living is the lack of storage space. But with some creative thinking, you can find ways to maximize every inch. 

Under-bed storage is a lifesaver in small spaces, as are hanging organizers that attach to the back of doors. You can also use storage ottomans and multi-purpose furniture to hide things like blankets, shoes, or seasonal clothes.

If your closet space is limited, invest in space-saving hangers or vacuum-sealed bags to compress items. And don’t forget about wall space! Floating shelves are a stylish way to display items while keeping surfaces clear.

Quick Tips:

• Use the space under your bed for extra storage.
• Hang baskets or shelves on the walls for extra organization.
• Add hooks inside closets for items like scarves, bags, or belts.

4. Personalizing Your Apartment (Within Lease Limits)

Decorating an apartment can be tricky, especially if your lease restricts you from making permanent changes. But there are still ways to make the space your own without risking your security deposit.

Removable wallpaper or peel-and-stick tiles are great for adding personality to your apartment without damaging the walls. You can also use wall decals or hang art with adhesive strips that won’t leave a mark. Area rugs, throw pillows, and curtains can do wonders to transform a room without any major alterations. And don’t forget plants—bringing a little greenery into your space makes it feel alive and fresh.

Quick Tips:

• Use removable wallpaper to add color and style.
• Incorporate indoor plants to make the space feel more like home.
• Hang art or photos using damage-free adhesive hooks.

5. Creating a Cozy Vibe

Whether you’re in a small studio or a multi-room apartment, creating a cozy, inviting vibe can make all the difference. 

Bring in soft textures like blankets, pillows, and rugs to warm up your space. Lighting can also affect how your apartment feels—opt for warm-toned bulbs, floor lamps, or even string lights to make your apartment feel cozy.

If you want to take things a step further, use essential oils or scented candles (just be mindful of any fire rules in your building) to make your apartment smell as good as it looks. Incorporating personal touches like favorite books, family photos, or travel mementos can also help your apartment feel more like you.

Quick Tips:

• Soft lighting can make a small space feel more welcoming.
• Invest in cozy textiles like blankets and throw pillows.
• Use personal mementos to give your space a sense of warmth and personality.

6. Keeping Your Space Clean

Cleaning your apartment regularly helps maintain your space and even your mental health. Even if the apartment doesn’t belong to you, it’s important to stay on top of cleaning and maintenance tasks so that small issues don’t turn into bigger problems.

Start by creating a simple cleaning routine that includes vacuuming, dusting, and wiping down surfaces regularly. Pay special attention to the kitchen and bathroom—these are two areas that tend to get dirty fast. If you find cleaning overwhelming, break it into smaller tasks and do a little bit each day to keep things manageable.

If you’re not sure how to deep clean certain areas or appliances, COIT has expert services to help keep your home spotless. From carpet cleaning to air duct maintenance, we’re here to handle the tough stuff so you don’t have to.

Quick Tips:

• Create a weekly cleaning schedule to stay on top of things.
• Use natural cleaning products for a fresh, non-toxic apartment.
• Don’t forget to clean often-neglected spots like baseboards, behind appliances, and vents.

7. Handling Maintenance Issues

While you might not own your apartment, it’s still your responsibility to handle minor maintenance tasks and report larger issues to your landlord or property manager. Knowing what’s your responsibility versus the landlord’s can save you from unnecessary headaches later on.

Always keep your lease handy, so you can quickly reference any rules or guidelines. For things like leaking faucets or clogged drains, you can try simple fixes yourself (a plunger and drain snake are essential tools for renters), but for more serious problems like plumbing or electrical issues, reach out to your landlord right away.

Be proactive—regularly inspect areas like windows, doors, and appliances for wear and tear. It’s better to address small issues before they turn into costly repairs.

Quick Tips:

• Report maintenance issues to your landlord as soon as possible.
• Keep a basic toolkit in your apartment for minor fixes.
• Regularly inspect your apartment for any signs of damage or wear.

8. Building Relationships with Neighbors

Getting along with your neighbors can have a big impact on your apartment experience. While you don’t have to become best friends, a friendly relationship makes apartment living much smoother. 

Introduce yourself when you first move in, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you need something or if you have something to offer. Respecting each other’s space and being open to communication will create a more pleasant environment for everyone.

Quick Tips:

• Introduce yourself to your neighbors when you move in.
• Be mindful of noise and shared spaces.
• Open communication helps avoid potential issues down the road.

9. Eco-Friendly Apartment Living

Even if you’re renting, there are still ways to make your apartment more environmentally friendly. Start by using energy-efficient light bulbs and unplugging electronics when they’re not in use to save on electricity. You can also switch to eco-friendly cleaning products and reduce waste by recycling or composting.

Look for small, easy changes like using reusable shopping bags, swapping paper towels for cloth ones, or setting up a simple recycling station. If you have the option, choose eco-friendly appliances and energy-saving features when renting an apartment.

Quick Tips:

• Use energy-efficient light bulbs to reduce your carbon footprint.
• Choose eco-friendly cleaning products.
• Set up a recycling or compost station in your kitchen.

10. Apartment Safety Tips

Safety is an important part of apartment living. Start by making sure your doors and windows have secure locks. If your apartment complex doesn’t offer security features like surveillance or gates, you can install a personal alarm system or smart locks.

Be aware of your surroundings, especially in common areas like parking lots or laundry rooms. It’s also a good idea to have renter’s insurance to cover personal property in case of theft, fire, or other emergencies.

Quick Tips:

• Install additional locks or security measures for peace of mind.
• Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in shared spaces.
• Consider renter’s insurance to protect your belongings.

Final Thoughts

Apartment living comes with its own set of challenges, but you can use these tips to make the most of your space. From finding creative storage solutions to staying on top of maintenance, a little planning goes a long way in making apartment life easier. 

Whether it’s your first apartment or your tenth, making your space work for you is key to enjoying apartment living! 

Need help keeping your apartment clean?

COIT offers professional cleaning services that can help you maintain your apartment easily. From carpet cleaning to air duct cleaning, we’ve got you covered! 

Visit our blog for more tips on maintaining a clean and comfortable home.