I want to give you my genuine, practical picks here, covering both new and secondhand options, because I think the smartest student budgets usually mix both rather than relying on just one source.
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IKEA: My Go-To for a Genuine Starter Kit
I'd point you here first if you want a complete, affordable setup in one trip. IKEA's basic ranges cover bedding, pots, plates, cutlery, and storage at prices that are genuinely hard to beat for new items. I'd recommend the Wembley or Croydon stores if you're able to get out there, since the range is more complete than what you'll find in smaller city center IKEA outlets.
Wilko: Back and Worth Checking
I'd flag this one specifically because it's a genuine comeback story worth knowing about. Wilko relaunched after its previous owner went into administration, with new stores reopening across the country and the brand's products also sold through The Range and online at wilko.com. It's expanded into West London specifically, with stores like Uxbridge among its growing list of locations. I'd genuinely recommend checking wilko.com or your nearest The Range for affordable kitchenware and home essentials, even if there isn't a standalone Wilko shop right near you yet.
Dunelm: Good for Bedding Specifically
I'd point you toward Dunelm if bedding is your priority. They regularly run student-specific discounts and have a genuinely wide range of duvets, covers, and pillows at reasonable prices, with several branches across outer London.
TK Maxx: Worth a Browse for Better-Quality Items at a Discount
I'd recommend TK Maxx if you want slightly higher-quality homeware at a reduced price, though I'd say the stock is more unpredictable than IKEA or Dunelm, so I wouldn't rely on it for a complete setup in one visit.
B&M and Home Bargains: Genuinely Cheap Basics
I'd point you here for the absolute basics at the lowest prices: plates, cutlery, basic cookware, and cleaning supplies. I wouldn't expect great quality, but for a first-year budget, I think these are genuinely worth a look.
Secondhand: Where I'd Tell You to Look First, Honestly
I'd actually recommend you start here before buying anything new. Facebook Marketplace and Gumtree both have a constant stream of departing students selling kitchen items and bedding cheaply or even giving them away at the end of the academic year. Vinted is also worth checking for secondhand bedding specifically. I'd time your search around June and September, when outgoing students are clearing out before they leave.
University Freshers' Groups and Noticeboards
I'd genuinely suggest checking your university's freshers' Facebook group or student union noticeboard, since departing students often post items for free or very cheap collection, specifically to avoid having to dispose of them themselves.
My Shopping Comparison
| Where | Best For |
| IKEA | Complete starter kit, new items |
| Wilko / The Range | Affordable kitchenware and home basics |
| Dunelm | Bedding specifically, regular student discounts |
| TK Maxx | Higher-quality items at a discount, unpredictable stock |
| B&M / Home Bargains | Absolute basics, lowest prices |
| Facebook Marketplace / Gumtree / Vinted | Secondhand, often free at end of term |
My Honest Bottom Line
I'd genuinely tell you to check secondhand options first, particularly if you're moving in during September when outgoing students are clearing out. For anything you can't find secondhand, IKEA gives you the most complete, reliable new starter kit, with Dunelm as my specific pick for bedding and Wilko or The Range for everyday kitchen basics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where's the cheapest place to buy a full starter kit for student accommodation in London?
I'd say IKEA gives you the most complete, affordable new setup in one trip, though I'd check Facebook Marketplace and Gumtree first for secondhand options that could be even cheaper.
Is Wilko still open in London?
Wilko has relaunched with new stores reopening across the UK, and the brand's products are also available through The Range and online. It's expanded into west London specifically, including Uxbridge. I'd check Wilko.com or your nearest The Range for current availability.
Where can I find cheap secondhand kitchen items in London?
I'd check Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree, and your university's freshers' group, particularly around June and September when departing students are clearing out their accommodation.
Is Dunelm good for student bedding specifically?
Yes, I'd genuinely recommend it. They regularly offer student discounts and have a wide, affordable range of duvets, covers, and pillows.
Should I buy everything new or look secondhand first?
I'd start with secondhand, particularly for items that don't need to be brand new, like kitchenware and some bedding, and fill in the gaps with new purchases from IKEA, Dunelm, or Wilko.
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Key Takeaways
- IKEA gives you the most complete, affordable new starter kit for bedding and kitchenware in one trip.
- Wilko has relaunched with new stores reopening, including in West London, plus availability through The Range and online.
- Dunelm is my specific pick for bedding, with regular student discounts available.
- Check Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree, and your university's freshers' group first for secondhand items, particularly around June and September.
- Mix secondhand and new purchases rather than relying on just one source for your full setup.