How to keep your flat clean without the drama

Living with flatmates is a big part of uni life—learning, laughing…and defo learning to take the bins out without starting a passive-aggressive war.

Household chores aren't exciting - let's just admit that. But it needs to be done, and trust us, no one wants to be that one person who is always taking the bins out while everyone else pretends the bin doesn't exist. 

Here’s how to share flat chores fairly, avoid resentment, and keep your space (and friendships) in good shape.

Why It Matters

Letting chores slide or leaving them for 'someone else' might feel harmless, but here’s what could happen:

🚫 Overflowing bins = nasty smells and potential cleaning charge

😤 Flatmate tension = "Why am I always the one doing everything?"

🧊 Silent stand-offs = everyone walking around the mess but saying nothing

It’s not about being spotless. It’s about fairness and respect—everyone doing their bit so no one feels taken for granted.

How to Keep Things Chill (and Clean)

🗓 Make a Simple Rota

It doesn’t need to be fancy. A shared note, fridge whiteboard, or group chat plan for bins, hoovering, and wiping down surfaces works wonders. Try using apps like Flatshare or Splitwise if your flat loves digital tools. Or download our sample kitchen cleaning rota for a start. 

💬 Start the Conversation Early

It’s way easier to agree on chores at the start of term than six weeks in. Try: “Hey, should we just take turns with bins each week?”

Already knee-deep in mess? Try: “I’ve noticed the bins are being left—should we set up a rota so it’s fair?”

📣 Remind, Don’t Nag

If something’s been missed, a quick message like “Hey, bins are full—who’s up this week?” gets the job done without bad vibes.

🙌 Pitch In Without Point-Scoring

Everyone has off weeks. If you pick up a chore unexpectedly, it's not the end of the world. But if it keeps happening, speak up: “I don’t mind doing it now, but could someone else take it next time?”

Respect the Space—and Each Other

Sharing a flat isn’t just about splitting chores—it’s about making sure everyone feels respected. That includes your flatmates and the cleaning team who work hard to keep shared spaces pleasant.

So next time you walk past the bins, ask yourself: Can I help?

A cleaner, happier flat is better for everyone. And hey, good vibes make everything more fun.