Sharing a Bathroom in a Co-Living Home: A Quick Guide to Respect and Harmony
Co-living is all about thriving together—sharing not just space, but also experiences and responsibility. And when it comes to shared spaces, few are as personal (or as potentially sensitive) as the bathroom.
In many of our homes, residents share a bathroom with one or sometimes even two other housemates. Alongside the kitchen, it’s one of the most frequently used communal areas, and everyone has their own routines, preferences, and expectations. That’s why setting clear, respectful habits from the start is key. Here’s how to make sure everyone feels comfortable, respected, and at home:
1. Keep It Clean
Whether you leave your toiletries in the bathroom or bring them back and forth from your room, the goal is the same: leave the space better than you found it. A few simple habits go a long way:
- Hang up your towel neatly—on the rack, not on the floor, over the door, or across the shower rod. No one wants to deal with someone else’s damp towel.
- Close the shower curtain when you’re done. It helps it dry faster and prevents mold.
- Clear off the counters. Don't leave your toothbrush, razor, or products behind unless there's a shared agreement to do so. If you shave in the sink, take a moment to rinse it out.
These small actions show consideration and make the space more pleasant for everyone.
2. Respect Others’ Belongings
Tempted to borrow someone’s shampoo or body wash? We get it—things get forgotten. But using someone else's items without asking can cause friction. Instead, just shoot them a quick message or ask in passing. Most people are more than willing to share if they know you respect their space and belongings.
3. Be Mindful of Schedules
Bathroom rush hour doesn’t happen as often as you might think—but it’s still worth checking in with your bathroom mates when you move in. If you all know each other's routines, it helps avoid awkward overlaps.
And don’t forget: sound travels. If the bathroom shares a wall with someone’s bedroom, especially late at night or early in the morning, be aware of how much noise you’re making. A little extra courtesy around those hours goes a long way.
4. Don’t Forget to Pitch In
Our housekeeping team helps maintain shared areas and stocks basic supplies from time to time—but they won’t catch everything. If you’re sharing items like toilet paper, hand soap, or even air fresheners, chat with your housemates about how to split costs or take turns restocking. Shared responsibility helps keep the bathroom functional and well-supplied for everyone.
Final Thoughts
Sharing a bathroom doesn’t have to be complicated. Most issues are easily avoided with communication, common sense, and a bit of courtesy. If you start off with these habits, you’ll build trust with your housemates and help create a home that everyone enjoys.
After all, co-living works best when we each do our part—and treat shared spaces with the same respect we’d hope to receive.
See also What should I do if I see a Community Room Rental rule being broken?
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