Sharing a home with people other than family members can be lots of fun, but disagreements can frequently arise over everything from household bills to noise levels.

One issue that is the cause of many arguments is cleaning, especially when housemates have differing attitudes towards hygiene and tidiness.

According to a poll conducted by flat and house sharing website SpareRoom.co.uk, more than two thirds of people have had a bust-up with a housemate over cleaning.

So what can you do to avoid these arguments and keep the peace in your home?

Address problems early on

If a housemate's inability to clean up after themselves is bothering you, speak to them about it straight away. Don't let resentment build up as the eventual argument will be much worse.

It is a lot easier to nip the little things - such as dirty clothes left on the bathroom floor and dishes left in the sink - in the bud before they combine to create one big problem.

Show your appreciation

When it comes to cleaning communal areas, people can become bitter if they feel their efforts are going unnoticed. A simple thank you is all it takes to encourage similar efforts in the future.

Also, focus on what has been done rather than what hasn't, because no one wants to be nagged over an overflowing bin when they've just spent all morning cleaning out the garage.

Draw up a rota

Often cleaning arguments centre around who does the most, and an easy way to ensure the load is shared equally is to draw up a rota of all the main daily and weekly tasks.

It will soon be apparent if someone isn't pulling their weight, and the issue can be addressed quickly before it escalates. You can even set aside a specific time each week when everyone can get to work.

Hire a cleaner

Sure, it comes at a cost, but hiring a professional cleaner can pay dividends in the long run by eliminating cleaning arguments altogether and giving everyone a little more free time.

And of course, if the cost is spread among three or four housemates, it will be easier to absorb. It's a particularly good idea to use a cleaning company for end of tenancy cleaning to ensure everything gets done to the best possible standard and no one is forced to put in more effort than anyone else.

Posted by Toni Tsocheva

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