When our family of four transitioned from a cramped one-bedroom apartment to our current three-bedroom duplex, we felt incredibly fortunate. Our new home offered nearly three times the living space, complete with a yard, a patio, brand-new appliances, and ample storage. At that moment, I didn’t even consider the fact that we only had one bathroom; the generous square footage was all I could think about. Our youngest was still in diapers, so we were really only talking about three people needing to share one bathroom.
Fast forward three years: We’re well settled in, our youngest is out of diapers, and our tween has developed a knack for taking marathon showers. Suddenly, that single bathroom is becoming a significant issue—one that’s hard to ignore.
Have you ever noticed how it seems like everyone in your home needs to use the toilet at the same time? Perhaps it’s something you all ate or just that time of day when everyone’s relaxed enough to let it all out. If you have multiple bathrooms, you can chuckle at the irony. But if you’re stuck with one bathroom, and everyone just devoured a burrito, the laughter quickly evaporates.
And don’t even get me started on the chaos that ensues when the toilet gets clogged—whether it’s due to an overzealous bowel movement or a rubber duck that mysteriously made its way into the plumbing.
It’s not just about emergencies, though. Showering and basic grooming can be a hassle, particularly when everyone is trying to get ready at the same time. Bedtime is another circus act, with kids bumping into each other, spilling water, and spraying toothpaste everywhere. Sometimes, I wish I could segregate them into separate bathrooms!
Then there’s the issue of privacy. While I know I shouldn’t expect much of it with young children around, I occasionally crave a moment of solitude in the bathroom—maybe to wash up, tackle my eyebrows, or try out that new under-eye concealer I ordered online. However, I rarely get more than a few minutes of peace before someone barges in, claiming they’re about to burst from needing to pee (which usually turns out to be an exaggeration, as they just want my company).
If I could magically conjure up another bathroom, I would envision a “mom’s only” sanctuary—a place for a brief escape, a bit of self-care, or a refuge from the noise of my kids who are wrestling each other in the living room. A space where I could lock the door and indulge in some Ben & Jerry’s without worrying about interruptions.
Yet, I recognize that adding more bathrooms won’t resolve all of life’s challenges. I also acknowledge that our home is a luxury compared to many around the globe, where even having one functional bathroom with running water is a blessing. I remember my grandfather sharing stories about growing up in New York City tenements, where entire buildings had to share a single bathroom!
And since we rent, any upgrade in the bathroom department would require moving—something that’s not happening anytime soon. So, while I grumble about our one-bathroom situation (and frankly, venting is part of the process), it is what it is for now.
Looking on the bright side, there are benefits to living modestly. Our family has learned the importance of cooperation, patience, and navigating the inconveniences of sharing a small bathroom. My children are grasping that extra bathrooms aren’t essentials and are developing gratitude for what we do have.
Also? I’d say we’ve all definitely strengthened our patience and resilience, which is not to be overlooked.
If you’re interested in more about family dynamics and self-care, check out our other post on home insemination. And for those considering such topics, Make a Mom provides excellent resources, just as WebMD offers valuable insights into pregnancy and home insemination.
Summary
Navigating life with a single bathroom as a family of four can be a comedic challenge. From sharing the space during morning routines to enduring the occasional plumbing disaster, it’s a test of patience and cooperation. While dreams of additional bathrooms may linger, the experience teaches valuable lessons on gratitude and resilience.