Dear Annie: I am part of a family that also has a woman renting a room in our house. I have always been extremely sensitive to smells and scents, but this woman’s odors send me gagging out of the room. My son is also sensitive to the smell.
Now that the weather is getting warmer, the smells are becoming stronger. While she is OK with my occasional request for her to go take a shower, I also don’t want to demand that she shower daily, although that is what is necessary to keep the smells manageable.
How would you suggest I broach this subject without offending her? -- Sensorily Overloaded
Dear Sensorily Overloaded: The best way to deal with the stinky housemate is to be honest, kind but firm. Ask her what she thinks is causing the odor? The worst thing you can do is be passive aggressive about it. Instead, investigate together what could be causing the bad odor. You could even have a laugh about it. You might also help her in other areas of her life. For instance, maybe after she cleans up her act, she will be more willing to find a romantic partner.
Send your questions for Annie Lane to dearannie@creators.com.
More from MLive
- Dear Abby: I am trying to reconnect with my daughter after 40 years apart
- Dear Annie: I am so jealous of my mother’s perfect, pampered life
- Dear Abby: My son is part of a ‘throuple’ and I don’t know how to handle it when they visit
- Centuries-old cemetery is hidden historic spot at Up North state park
- Why Tho? My friend accidentally texted me something mean...about me