How to Share Space with a Roommate
Ways to Keep Belongings and Roommate Relationships Safe
Aug 3, 2008
Living with another person other than family can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. Sharing personal belongs and space can be even more intimidating. While there are reasons to worry, the chances of ending up with a roommate who sleeps naked, hides actions figures under his bed, or throws keg parties in the middle of the night are slim. Even if this is the case, there are ways to keep your sanity and make the most of living with another person who could more likely turn out to be a new friend in an unfamiliar setting.
When sharing any space (whether it be an actual bedroom or bathroom or even just a living room and kitchen), keep personal items out of the way.
Sharing a Bedroom and Bathroom
If sharing a bedroom, ask roommates if they mind splitting the room into personal sections to keep items straight and avoid conflict. This method works well because even if a roommate is messy or clumsy, he should only damage his side/belongings. And if a roommate is super conscious of cleanliness and order, he will be able to control his side of the room.
With a split room, late-night or early-morning study sessions and other schedule differences due to jobs and sports can be less disruptive to a sleeping roommate by using a small lamp on your half of the room. If possible, try studying at an on-campus coffee shop or library, but roommates generally understand minimal disturbances.
For shared bathrooms, keep a shower caddy with toiletries and personal items either in a bathroom cupboard (if space permits) or in a bedroom to keep the shower space clean and clutter-free. This also helps to prevent other roommates from using your products. Keep used towels and washcloths hanging out of the way (like on your bedpost). Always wipe spilled water and clean the bathroom of any loose hair and product.
Sharing a Kitchen and Living Room
A few standard rules in the main part of an apartment can help everybody get along. The key is responsibility. When cooking, only use food items you have purchased (except in the case of shared cost of items like butter and milk), and always wash shared utensils (like pots, pans, and serving spoons) immediately in case another roommate plans to cook with them.
Always throw trash away and empty the bin if cooking anything that spoils quickly and will leave the apartment smelling. Clean the refrigerator and cabinets of any personal spoiled products on a weekly basis. Clean countertops and tables after eating or cooking.
Keep television, DVD, and stereo remotes on a coffee or side table, never on or in the couch cushions. Never leave purses, backpacks, or other personal belongings on the couch or chairs of the living room.
Sharing space with a stranger or friend requires consideration and responsibility. Different people react differently to situations, but a general rule to protect your roommate relationships and your belongings is to create a small area (even a third of a bedroom) of personal space to keep your belongings and even more importantly, to clean your mess after using shared items and rooms.
