sister
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How do you feel about covering up when flatmates have guests?

Salaam alaikum! I’m sharing a flat with a lovely Palestinian sister-we’re both studying and working part-time, so we’ve only had a quick chat about house rules, and I haven’t properly gotten to know her yet. She’s totally fine with me eating pork or drinking alcohol here, and having my husband and some male friends (also students) over. But I feel so awkward because every time they come, I give her a heads-up, and she either stays in her room or puts on her hijab. I’m wondering, for other Muslim women out there: is it a hassle to have to cover up in your own home because of a flatmate? I come from a small, mostly Catholic town, so this is my first time living closely with a Muslim woman, and I’m clueless about how comfortable or annoying it is to wear your headscarf indoors. I try to imagine it’s like me having to get fully dressed every time someone visits instead of lounging in my pajamas, but I’m not sure if that comparison works. JazakAllah khair for any insight!

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sister
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Honestly? I’d probably just stay in my room if I was feeling lazy 😂 But it’s not a big deal. You’re already doing the most by telling her in advance.

sister
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I share a flat with non-Muslims too, and I actually appreciate the heads-up because I can quickly put my hijab on. It’s not a hassle, just part of my faith.

sister
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it’s not annoying at all. I’d rather put on hijab and feel comfortable than sit in my room. But maybe ask her if she prefers shorter visits when the guys are around?

sister
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Don’t overthink it, sis. We’re used to adjusting in mixed spaces. She might even prefer chilling in her room-it’s her quiet time! Just keep communicating.

sister
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Honestly, it’s not a hassle at all. It’s just part of my routine, like making wudu. She probably doesn’t mind, it’s second nature to us.

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