Finder makes money from featured partners, but editorial opinions are our own.

What homewares you should splurge and save on when you move out

Posted:
News

collaged image of plates, bed and washing machine

Put down the $80 fiddle leaf fig and read this.

Taking the step of moving out can be super exciting but it can also be daunting and stressful. With a limited budget yet so many essentials that you need to get, it can become hard to differentiate which things you need to save on and which products are worth the splurge.

To help you out, we've put together a guide of our recommendations for what we think deserves the extra money and which areas you can pocket those dollars.

This article was created in partnership with Emma Sleep to promote its Black Friday sale. Save 55% on the Diamond Hybrid Degree Mattress between 15 November and 6 December 2021.


Splurge: Mattress

Everyone needs their beauty sleep and you'll need a good mattress for just that. For something that you'll be using every night, it's fair to say that splurging on a good quality mattress is a worthwhile investment.

Our pals from Emma Sleep are the purveyors of Europe's most awarded mattress that guarantees a great night's sleep at an affordable price. Their Emma Comfort mattress is firmer than their original, providing better back support and pressure distribution throughout the night for a comfortable sleep.

Or if you're someone who gets hot during the night, the Emma Diamond Hybrid Mattress uses technology that optimises temperature regulation and breathability which is perfect for the approaching Aussie summer. Plus, you can snap the Diamond Hybrid Mattress up and save a massive 55% off for Black Friday. It's their biggest sale yet, but only lasts until 6 December so you want to sleep on it (see what I did there?). But seriously, head on over to the Emma Sleep website to get one step closer to a better, deeper sleep and save.


Save: Dinnerware, glasses and cutlery

Dinnerware is something that really ranges in the price department, and we think that it's a perfect opportunity to save. For dishes, plastics like melamine are an affordable option and much more break-resistant than more expensive ceramics.

If you're searching for something a little more fancy, you can often find dinnerware sets or individual pieces on sale at various homewares stores throughout the year.

four beige plates varying in size with thin metallic fork and knifeSource: Pinterest


two-toned brown-orange sheets and pillows on bedSource: Pinterest

Splurge: Bedding

To top off your luxurious mattress, add some good quality bedding. After all, there's nothing like slipping into comfy sheets after a long day. For sheets and bedding, there are so many different materials with different features so you'll need to know what you're looking for. Some of our favourites are cotton blends for their soft texture and breathability, or silk for that extra lavish touch.

But the real star of the show is a solid pillow and our vote is on the Emma Foam Pillow. Whether you sleep on your back, tummy or side, this ergonomic bad boy will adapt to support your head, neck and spine no matter how you catch your z's. It's also breathable and hypoallergenic, meaning you won't need to swap out your pillow if you're a bit of a sweaty sleeper during the summer months.

For more on where to find bedding online, check out our article here.


Save: Artwork

No one expects a Monet in your first apartment but art pieces can really help add some personality to your home. Now more than ever, there are so many affordable options. Looking through thrift stores and buying online prints from smaller artists are two really great methods of sourcing unique pieces at low prices.

Framed digital prints and artwork on wall in a living space with a bookshelf below itSource: Pinterest


Cream coloured pots and pans sitting in an organising rack

Source: Pinterest

Splurge: Cookware

Whether you're a big cook or not, pots and pans are a staple of the home and with good care, should be able to serve you for many years to come.

Cookware is something that you don't need to re-purchase often, so we suggest that you invest in good quality kitchenware that will last, and you'll have one less thing to worry about.


Save: Plants

We all love a good house plant but they can be super expensive and need a lot of care. Unless you can guarantee the survival of your plant, we vote that this is an area where you should save.

Look out for things like yard sales, plant rescues or even sourcing cuttings that you can propagate yourself for a cheap spend. Online groups like Facebook Marketplace and plant swaps are another great way to find new plants for a fraction of the price.

Two small pilea plants in cream coloured potsSource: Pinterest


khaki green couch in a living room with throw pillows and blankets; sitting on a patterned rug behind a round wooden coffee tableSource: Pinterest

Splurge: Couch

This is another item that will add a personal touch and set the vibe of your home. Your couch will likely be at the centre of your living space and is an area where people will come together, so we think it is worthy of a splurge.

A couch is another good investment as it may even follow you to your next home!


Save: White goods and appliances

Large home appliances like washing machines and fridges can be really expensive but there are a lot of cheaper options out there. Second-hand items from marketplaces like Facebook and Gumtree are often still in really good condition at a much lower price.

You can also use our Appliance Finder to help you find deals as well as read up on the best white goods for your lifestyle.

stacked washing machine and dryer in a cupboard next to hanging shirtsSource: Pinterest


Dyson vacuum cleaner resting against white couchSource: Pinterest

Splurge: Vacuum cleaner

A clean home is a happy home and you'll be a lot happier to clean if you've got a good vacuum. There are a wide range of different vacuum cleaners for different needs, be it stick, robot or handheld.

Read our reviews and price points of the best rated vacuum cleaners in Australia for more information on what's right for you.

We hope that you now have a better idea of what your hard-earned money should go towards and that it makes for a smoother move-in process. For more on moving out and what it's like to live with new roommates, check out our podcast episode that covers everything from paying rent to housemate horror stories.

Latest news, reviews and guides.

Get more from Finder

Ask an Expert

You are about to post a question on finder.com.au:

  • Do not enter personal information (eg. surname, phone number, bank details) as your question will be made public
  • finder.com.au is a financial comparison and information service, not a bank or product provider
  • We cannot provide you with personal advice or recommendations
  • Your answer might already be waiting – check previous questions below to see if yours has already been asked

Finder only provides general advice and factual information, so consider your own circumstances, or seek advice before you decide to act on our content. By submitting a question, you're accepting our Terms of Use, Disclaimer & Privacy Policy and 6. Finder Group Privacy & Cookies Policy.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Go to site