I rented a tiny apartment in a prime location in the old city center of Helsinki, and I loved the high ceilings, old fashioned radiator and original wooden floors at first site. The bathroom was another story. But after a few days – and mishaps – it grew on me.
So, this is a primer on bathroom etiquette in a 100-year-old apartment in Helsinki where the shower is in the middle of a hobbit sized bathroom. You could do all you would need to do in a bathroom at the same time, but I would not recommend it, no matter how much you may like multi-tasking. (Don’t ask how I know!)
When taking a shower, there are a few things you MUST remember!
- First, make sure the toilet paper roll is protected. That should have been a no-brainer but – sigh. Big soggy mess. My bathroom has a shower curtain to pull across the door and TP holder attached to it to avoid this kind of mishap..
- Secondly, put down the toilet seat lid. Much easier to squeegee dry and prevents wet bottom syndrome.
- Thirdly, don’t leave your towels on the toilet set. Another no-brainer. Another soggy mess.
- And lastly, use the hand shower. Don’t hook it up high. Your bathroom would be very clean – everywhere – but you will also have damp socks every time you need to take care of business. And if you are anything like me, that is twice for every cup of coffee. I drink a lot of coffee – and I went through three pairs of socks after my first shower.
I can conserve water by turning off the water while conditioning and soaping (try holding a hand shower and soaping up at the same time. Think about it!). I can now squeegee dry the lower sections of the walls and floor in less than 60 seconds. And I love the heating bars and warm, cozy towels. It is also work great for drying socks.