Prime
Essential appliances you need when you move out

With the growing advancement in technology and innovation, many appliances are becoming smart that allow you to control them
What you need to know:
- When moving out, it is essential to invest in appliances that not only make your home functional but also reflect your personal needs and style.
- Your choices should create a space that supports independence.
When Francis Mutyaba decided to move out of his parents’ home, he was filled with excitement and anticipation. The thought of finally having his own space, setting his own rules, and building a life of independence was thrilling. However, as he stared at the empty apartment he had rented, the reality of setting up a functional home hit him hard. as many first-time movers, Mutyaba quickly realised that having the right appliances would be crucial to making his new space not just livable, but comfortable and efficient.
Although finding the right appliances can be challenging, Geoffrey Mawanda, an appliance sales associate in Kampala, highlights the importance of investing in practical appliances that align with your lifestyle and preferences. He notes that selecting items that enhance functionality and reflect individuality helps create a comfortable and personalised living space, fostering both independence and self-expression.
“When moving out, it is essential to invest in appliances that not only make your home functional but also reflect your personal needs and style. Your choices should create a space that supports independence and showcases your unique personality, making your new home truly your own." Mawanda says.
Refrigerator
Experts argue that a fridge is arguably the most important appliance you will need when moving out. Whether you want to store leftovers, preserve fresh produce, or keep drinks cool, a fridge is a vital part of daily living typically for those who prefer home-cooked meals or enjoy having a variety of food options available.
A fridge also saves you money by reducing food waste. Instead of buying fresh ingredients every few days, you are sure to buy in bulk and use it later, getting you the most value from your groceries, something that saves both time and money on shopping trips.
Although the cost of a fridge varies greatly depending on its size, brand and features, it is important choose one that fits your space, needs and budget. Mawanda emphasizes that investing in a reliable fridge not only saves you money in the long run but also significantly enhances your quality of life.
Smaller basic models of a small single-door fridge suitable for a starter apartment cost Shs700,000 and Shs1.2m, while larger or more advanced fridges with features such as frost-free technology, energy efficiency range between Shs2m and above.
Washing machine
Managing your own laundry is part of the independence package especially when you have decided to move out, a responsibility that necessitates you to own a washing machine. It is an essential appliance that provides convenience, saves time and reduces the hassle of manual laundry. It also helps in maintaining the quality of your clothes as it gently washes fabrics with consistent water temperature and detergent distribution, ensuring longer-lasting clothes compared to hand washing that tends to cause wear and tear over time. Mawanda says when buying a washing machine one should consider their budget and home-size, capacity to suit your laundry needs (whether for delicate or heavy loads), ease of use, energy efficiency to save on utility bills, and durability to ensure long-term performance.
Compact or semi-automatic washing machines ideal for small spaces cost between Shs800,000 and Shs1.5m, high-end fully automatic models with features such as energy efficiency, quick wash cycles, or automatic load balancing cost Shs1.8m and more.
Electric kettle
When moving out, a kettle is a small versatile but incredibly useful appliance to have in your new home. It is perfect for quickly boiling water for tea, coffee, instant noodles, or any other hot beverages and meals. Justus Luyima a home appliance dealer says a kettle offers convenience, especially when you are in a rush or do not have the time to heat water on a stove.
While it is more energy-efficient compared to boiling water on a stovetop, modern electric kettles come with features like automatic shut-off, temperature control, and cordless options, making them safer and more convenient to use.
Luyima says with the energy efficiency features available, it is important to choose a model that boils water quickly and uses minimal energy as this helps save on electricity costs while offering convenience. Depending on the size, brand and features, basic kettles range between Shs50,000 and Shs100,000 while more advanced models cost Shs150,000 and Shs300,000.
Iron/ hand steamer
An iron is an indispensable appliance when moving out. It ensures your clothes are neat and presentable, vital for work or formal occasions. This is because keeping your clothes wrinkle-free not only boosts your confidence but also leaves a good impression in social and professional settings. An iron is also important for keeping your clothes in good condition as it maintains the fabric’s integrity by smoothing out wrinkles and restoring the shape of garments.
The cost of an iron is relatively affordable. Basic models range between Shs50,000 to Shs150,000, depending on the brand and features. More advanced models with steam functions, anti-drip technology or ceramic plates cost between Shs150,000 and Shs300,000.
Alternatively, a hand steamer from a reputable brand is ideal for those who value convenience and efficiency in maintaining wrinkle-free clothes. Unlike traditional irons, hand steamers are compact, easy to us, and best for quick touch-ups. They use steam to remove wrinkles and refresh fabrics, making them perfect for delicate materials like silk, polyester and wool, which can be damaged by the heat of an iron. A hand steamer is also perfect for travel, as its portability makes it easy to pack and use on the go. They cost between Shs50,000 and Shs300,000.
Luyima tips, “With the rise of smaller living spaces and minimalist lifestyles, consider multi-purpose appliances that suit your specific needs as many of these are becoming more compact and versatile, for instance steamers that can both iron and sanitise.”
Similarly, with the growing advancement in technology and innovation, many appliances are becoming smart with connectivity features that allow you to control them via your smartphone. Luyima encourages homeowners with smart homes to look for products that integrate with their home automation systems or offer app-controlled settings for convenience and efficiency.
Other important appliances that you need as you move out to your own home include television, dryer, dishwasher, blender or food processor, pans, portable fan or heater, power extensions, rechargeable lamp and a Wi-Fi router. Cleaning essentials such as broom, mop, dustpan and brush, should also be budgeted for.