The Unwritten Rules of the Communal Bathroom

From shower flip-flop drama to passive-aggressive soap theft, communal college showers can get hectic. With bath time turning into a full-on war zone, the chaos and sudden lack of privacy can drive anyone a little crazy. So, to make life easier, I’ve wrapped up our top 10 favorite tips and tricks. And for those lucky enough to have the luxury (and privacy) of their bathroom, these still totally apply if you choose to use them. Anyway, without further ado, let’s dive right in.

1. A Shower Cady

When it comes to communal showers, organization is everything. Keep all your essentials: body wash, razor, shampoo, conditioner, loofah, face wash, and whatever else you need in one easy-to-carry caddy. Opt for a plastic or metal caddy that drains water and dries quickly. These materials are durable, easy to clean, and won’t hold moisture the way fabric ones do, helping you avoid that gross, damp smell over time. Bonus points if it has side pockets or sections to keep things organized and easy to grab. A well-stocked, mess-free caddy means less fumbling, no forgotten products, and fewer awkward towel dashes back to your room.

2.Flip-Flops Always

I can’t stress this enough, but as Sabrina Carpenter says, “please, please, please,” wear shower shoes. Whether it’s a pair of cheap plastic flip-flops or some cute waterproof slides, just make sure your feet are covered.

A lot goes down in the dorm washroom. And when you’re sharing a shower with 50 to 100 other girls, many of whom are dealing with periods and everything else that comes with being human, the last thing you want is to be barefoot on those floors. It’s not just gross, it’s a direct attack on your pedicure.

So seriously, invest in shower shoes. They don’t have to be expensive or cute (though bonus points if they are), but I highly recommend going for black or dark-colored ones, they dry faster and hide wear and tear better.

3.A Towel Hook or Clip

4. A Quick Dry Towel Will Change Your Life

Traditional towels take forever to dry and start to smell musty fast. Microfiber or quick-dry towels dry fast and pack up small, great for tight dorm spaces.

There’s nothing worse than stepping out of a nice, hot shower only to find your towel has betrayed you, slipped off the hook, and landed face-first in some mysterious puddle. To avoid that kind of chaos, go for towels with built-in hanging loops or button closures. They stay put and keep your towel off the (questionably clean) floor. You can even use a sturdy over-the-door hook for extra hold if your dorm provides one. Trust me, it’s a small upgrade that saves you from some very soggy regrets.

5.Carry A Spare Hair-Tie or Clip

6.Don’t Skip the Bathroom Cleaning Wipes

Even if the custodial staff cleans regularly, you’ll quickly realize that shared bathrooms don’t stay spotless for long. A small pack of disinfectant wipes in your bathroom kit lets you quickly clean off a sink, toilet seat, or shower ledge when needed. It’s a small habit that makes a big difference in keeping things feeling a little more sanitary and a little more yours.

Having an extra hair tie or clip can be a total game-changer. It comes in handy on those days when you're not washing your hair but still want it up and out of the way. And funny enough, it’s also a low-key way to make friends. At some point, someone will forget their hair tie and start asking around, and since you read this blog and came prepared, you’ll swoop in like the legend you are. You might even end up saving the day and finding a new friend in the most unexpected place (aka the shower line). So, yes, always carry extra hair ties or clips. You’ll thank yourself later.

7.Shower Speaker for the Vibes

Want to make your dorm shower feel less like a locker room and more like a mini concert or calming spa moment? A waterproof Bluetooth speaker is a game-changer. Just keep the volume low—you’re not the only one in there, and no one wants a surprise 7 a.m. rave. Whether you're vibing to your “Romanticizing My Life” playlist or blasting some chill lo-fi beats, the right soundtrack can turn your daily rinse into a moment of peace (or power). Just be mindful of others shared space means shared sound.

8.Always Carry A Travel Sized First Aid Kit

Blisters from new shoes? Nicked your ankle while shaving? Dropped your razor and now have a mystery cut? Yup, we’ve all been there. That’s why having a mini first aid kit is a dorm shower must. You don’t need a full-on pharmacy, just the basics to handle those little annoyances that show up at the worst possible time. It’s one of those things that seems extra... until the day you need it and you’re thanking your past self for being so smart.

Trust: your future self (and your freshly shaved legs) will be grateful.

9.Prep Outfit Before Entering Shower

Let’s be real: when you’re half-asleep or rushing to make an 8 a.m., you will forget something. And nothing kills your post-shower glow like realizing you forgot clean underwear or your towel... while standing there soaking wet. To avoid the hallway dash of shame, lay out everything before you go: your clothes, towel, undies, shower shoes, even your deodorant. Some people even pack it all into a drawstring bag or tote for an easy grab-and-go system. A little prep goes a long way, especially when it saves you from dripping across the dorm in a panic.

10.Respect The Shared Space

When you're done showering, take a minute to clean up after yourself, no stray hairs on the wall, puddles all over the floor, or half-empty products left behind. It might seem small, but it makes a huge difference. Respecting shared spaces isn’t just about cleanliness—it’s about being mindful of everyone else’s comfort and privacy. Communal bathrooms can already feel awkward or vulnerable for a lot of people. Leaving a mess behind or being inconsiderate of personal space can make it even worse. Wipe up any spills, don’t hog the mirror, and give others their space. It’s basic human courtesy—and trust us, your floormates will notice who treats the bathroom like their own personal spa and who treats it like, well... a frat house. A little effort goes a long way in making shared living feel less chaotic and way more respectful. Be the reason someone feels at ease in an already uncomfortable space.