Household hygiene wars: my roommate won't wash the dishes

My roommate doesn’t wash the dishes regularly; it’s been four days this week and the kitchen officially stinks now. When I mention it, they either say they’re busy or act like they don’t care. Should I talk to them openly or just ignore it? This irresponsibility at home is even affecting my mood.

I think you should speak firmly. You’ve already said it’s been four days and the kitchen smells, I don’t understand this ease. My old roommate was like that too, eventually we decided everyone should wash their own dishes. But still, they couldn’t manage it; I think it’s a matter of habit.

So, had he done this before? Or has he been so irresponsible this week? I think if it’s a chronic issue, the solution will be difficult.

@elifayşe to be honest, it’s not the first time, she was doing it every now and then, but not for this long. Usually, she would postpone for 1-2 days.

@didem32 are you maybe exaggerating a bit? Just because there’s a smell in the kitchen, you immediately jump to the conclusion that it’s a character issue… Maybe they just can’t say there’s a problem? :roll_eyes:

To be frank, it’s best to be direct. Sharing responsibilities in common living spaces is essential. Most conflicts actually escalate because they are not discussed. However, it fosters healthier communication to express yourself by saying ‘This issue bothers me’ rather than adopting a blaming attitude.

@mehmetozz I don’t think that’s the case. Can someone really not wash for that many days? It feels disrespectful to me. Just saying you’re busy doesn’t solve anything.

Saying “then live alone” is legendary. :slightly_smiling_face: Let me put it this way, at worst propose “I won’t touch the dishes, but you do another job, that’s fairer.” Maybe you can avoid the kitchen smell.