Begin long-term sobriety at our home
Preparing for Move-In
Welcome to DB House! We want your transition to be as smooth as possible. This guide will help you pack appropriately and arrive prepared for your new chapter in recovery.
Everything You Need to Bring for a Confident, Comfortable Start at DB House
Preparing for sober living shouldn’t feel overwhelming. This detailed checklist helps you pack with clarity so you can focus fully on your recovery, settle in smoothly, and feel at home from the moment you arrive.
Clothing:
- 7-10 days worth of clothing
- Appropriate work attire (if employed)
- Casual comfortable clothes
- Sleepwear
- Underwear and socks (2-week supply)
- Jacket/outerwear for current season
- Comfortable shoes and work shoes
Bathroom Essentials:
- Towels (2-3 bath towels)
- Washcloths (4-6)
- Toiletries (soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.)
- Deodorant
- Razor and shaving supplies
- Any personal hygiene products needed
Laundry Supplies:
- Laundry detergent
- Fabric softener (optional)
- Laundry basket or bag
Personal Items:
- Valid photo ID
- Insurance cards (if applicable)
- Any required medications in original prescription bottles
- Phone and charger
- Alarm clock
- Personal electronics (laptop, tablet, etc.)
- Headphones/earbuds
Recovery Materials:
- 12-step literature (if you have it)
- Journal or notebook
- Writing supplies
- Meeting directory (we'll provide one if needed)
Important Documents:
- Social Security card
- Birth certificate (if available)
- Banking information
- Insurance information
- Emergency contact information
Optional Items (If Desired)
- Television for bedroom (please coordinate with roommate)
- Small fan (personal use)
- Bedside lamp
- Pictures or personal decorations (modest, recovery-friendly)
- Books or magazines
- Exercise clothes and equipment
- Bicycle (if you have secure storage)
What NOT to Bring
To protect the safety, serenity, and recovery of all residents, the following items are strictly prohibited at DB House.
Prohibited Items:
- Alcohol in any form (including mouthwash with alcohol)
- Illegal drugs or drug paraphernalia
- Weapons of any kind
- Valuable jewelry or large amounts of cash
- Candles or incense
- Hot plates or cooking appliances for bedroom
- Space heaters
- Aerosol sprays or air fresheners with alcohol content
- Pornographic materials
- Anything that could trigger others in recovery
Medication Policy:
- All prescribed medications must be in original prescription bottles
- Controlled substances will be monitored by house management
- Over-the-counter medications should be disclosed
- Any abuse of prescribed medication results in immediate eviction
Move-In Day Tips
Before You Arrive:
- Call ahead to confirm your move-in time
- Arrange transportation – consider having a sober family member or friend help
- Pack light – you can always get more items later
- Bring your move-in payment ($750 – cash, money order, or approved payment method)
When You Arrive:
- Meet with the house manager for orientation
- Tour the facility and your bedroom
- Meet your roommate(s) and other residents
- Review house rules and sign agreement
- Receive your welcome packet with meeting schedules and local resources
- Get the door access code and house keys
Important Reminders
Food & Groceries: Residents are responsible for their own food. We recommend:
Before You Arrive:
- Planning to grocery shop shortly after arrival
- Labeling all food items with your name and date
- Being respectful of shared refrigerator and pantry space
- Cleaning up immediately after cooking or eating
Storage Space:
- Bedroom closet and dresser space (shared with roommate)
- Under-bed storage available
- Limited storage for additional items – pack accordingly
- DB House is not responsible for lost or stolen items
Bed Linens: We provide all bed linens, pillows, and blankets. You don’t need to bring these unless you prefer your own.
Local Shopping Resources
Ask your house manager for specific locations nearest to your house.
Near Our Houses:
- Walmart – Multiple locations for affordable essentials
- Target – Household items and personal care
- ShopRite, Stop & Shop – Groceries
- Dollar Stores – Budget-friendly basics
- CVS/Walgreens – Pharmacy and personal care
You Don't Have to Face Recovery Alone
Are you in need of substance use disorder treatment or need additional support? We work closely with our treatment partners to facilitate access to treatment services in New Jersey such as medical detox, residential inpatient treatment, intensive outpatient programs (IOP), and virtual treatment programs for substance use and mental health treatment. If you need guidance or additional help in recovery, please reach out to us. We are here to help in your recovery journey.
Need Help Getting Sober?
Still Have Questions?
We’re here to help! If you’re unsure about whether to bring something or need clarification on any items, please contact us before move-in day.
- Available 24/7 for inquiries