My in-law’s place: Am I OCD? Or is the environment really bad?

I’m a FTM, and my baby is 2.5 months old. I’m currently staying at my in-laws’, and I’ve had a hard time adjusting to the environment here. I also feel bad for my baby ☹️ Firstly, air pollution — the house is frequently exposed to 2nd hand and 3rd hand smoke. My FIL, bro-in-law and husband are heavy smokers. It’s a corridor unit and they smoke at the corridor, sometimes in the toilet. They also burn incense (like 10+ joss sticks each time) for prayers every morning and evening. As a non-smoker, I cannot stand the smell and worry for the health of my baby. Secondly, noise pollution — my FIL is a retiree and hurls profanities frequently (always talks to himself and curses out loud in Cantonese). He loves to watch TV loudly every night from 11pm to 4am, and sometimes it’s difficult to soothe baby to sleep at night. Lastly, hygiene — the family doesn’t have a habit of washing hands with soap or using hand sanitizer before touching/carrying my baby. They didn’t have any hand soap at their sinks until I moved in and bought for everyone to use, but I wonder if they use. I always complain to my husband, but he thinks I’m a clean freak and being OCD since he grew up in this environment. Is it just me?

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Firstly, you should be telling your husband about smoking. Secondly, to remind them to always wash hands before touching your little one. It is for the safety of your child. You are not clean freak but you have every right to ensure clean environment in homes plays a part esp for newborn at growing up stage. Perhaps, you might want to shift to your mum's place every now and then. Otherwise, you have to let them know what you feel and atleast have empathy on their grandchild. Meanwhile, you can ensure doors and windows are open for fresh air. Or you can get air purifier to place in the room or living room. Wishing you the best, hope it helps.

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