How to Cook Together Without Arguments in a Shared Flat

Kitchen Harmony: How to Cook Together Without Conflicts

Sharing a flat means sharing a kitchen—and that can either lead to fun bonding moments or daily frustrations. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a microwave maestro, the key to peaceful co-living is clear communication and a bit of planning.

Here’s how to cook together without stepping on each other’s toes, and actually enjoy shared meals in your apartment.

1. Set Basic Kitchen Ground Rules

✔ Clean as you go
✔ Label your food (if you’re not sharing everything)
✔ Agree on whether staples like oil, salt, and spices are communal
✔ Avoid “kitchen domination”—everyone deserves access to the space

Simple rules keep misunderstandings and passive-aggressive post-its at bay.

2. Plan Communal Meals Occasionally

Cooking together can be a great way to bond—just don’t force it daily.

✔ Choose one night a week for a shared dinner
✔ Rotate who cooks or co-cook a simple meal
✔ Keep it low-pressure: pasta, tacos, stir-fry

It’s a nice break from solo dinners and helps build a friendly household dynamic.

3. Respect Each Other’s Time and Habits

You might be a morning person who meal-preps at 7 AM—your roommate might not.

✔ Avoid monopolizing the kitchen during peak hours
✔ Use a shared calendar or a whiteboard for big cooking plans (e.g., Sunday baking, dinner parties)
✔ Wear headphones if you’re blasting a podcast while cooking

Little acts of courtesy go a long way in shared spaces.

4. Keep Shared Spaces Tidy

Even if you’re just “leaving it to soak,” messy kitchens build resentment fast.

✔ Wipe down surfaces after cooking
✔ Don’t leave dishes overnight
✔ Take turns doing deep cleans of the fridge, oven, and shelves

Using a cleaning rotation—especially for kitchen upkeep—helps avoid awkwardness and makes everyone accountable.

5. Use BeRoomie to Find Like-Minded Flatmates

When it comes to cooking, habits and preferences vary widely. Whether you’re vegan, into meal prepping, or always on the go, BeRoomie helps match you with roommates who align with your lifestyle—including cooking habits and expectations.

This can help prevent future tension and create a more harmonious co-living setup right from the start.

Final Thoughts

Cooking in a shared flat doesn’t have to be chaotic. With mutual respect, open communication, and a bit of structure, it can even become a highlight of your shared living experience.

And if you’re still searching for a place, consider choosing roommates who fit your vibe—because shared meals are better when everyone’s on the same page.