Should You Make the Bed Every Day? When Household Expectations Clash in Marriage

 

Marriage is a partnership that requires compromise, understanding, and respect for each other’s differences. But what happens when small daily habits—like making the bed—become a source of tension?

In this case, a husband believes his wife should make the bed every day because that’s what his first wife did. The wife, however, finds it challenging to keep up with this expectation due to her busy life with kids. The disagreement leaves them unable to find common ground.

So, what’s the best way to handle this situation? Let’s break it down.

1. Comparing Past and Present is Unfair

It’s natural to have expectations in a marriage, but bringing up a former spouse as a benchmark can be hurtful. Every person is different, and every relationship should be valued for what it uniquely brings. Instead of saying, “My first wife did this,” it would be healthier for the husband to say, “I really like when the bed is made. It helps me feel organized and ready for the day.”

If past relationships are being used as a standard, it may be time to have an honest conversation about setting new expectations for this marriage.

2. Understanding Different Priorities

For some people, making the bed daily is an important habit that sets the tone for their day. For others, especially those juggling a busy household with kids, it may not be a top priority. Both perspectives are valid. The key is recognizing that what’s important to one person may not be as important to the other.

A good question to ask is: Does an unmade bed truly impact our relationship, or is it just a preference? If it's just a small difference in habits, perhaps letting go of the expectation could bring more peace.

3. Compromise is Key

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