A light-hearted yet heated discussion has erupted on TikTok after local content creator Vanessa Chia shared a video questioning her boyfriend’s insistence on her showering every time she steps outside — even if it’s just a quick trip downstairs. The video, titled “This is too excessive la cmon… go downstairs also need SHOWER??”, has since gone viral, racking up over 12,000 likes and thousands of comments from netizens divided on the topic of extreme personal hygiene.
In the 55-second clip, Vanessa expresses disbelief that her boyfriend expects her to bathe upon returning home from brief errands like heading downstairs. Some viewers wholeheartedly supported the boyfriend’s stance, citing concerns over bringing outdoor germs, bacteria, or dust into the home environment, while others found it excessive, arguing that changing clothes should suffice.
Netizens Split on Hygiene vs. Practicality
@wafflenessa This is too excessive la cmon… go downstairs also need SHOWER??
♬ original sound – Vanessa Chia
Comments on the viral TikTok video revealed polarised opinions. Many users echoed the boyfriend’s preference for showering, stating that even a short exposure to “outside air” can result in contaminants sticking to clothes and skin, which could transfer onto furniture or bedding. One commenter pointed out the potential for bacteria from lifts or car seats to cling to skin, while another highlighted how particles from cigarette smoke, vehicle exhaust, and construction dust contribute to household pollution.
However, a significant portion of netizens defended Vanessa’s perspective, calling the expectation unrealistic. They argued that brief outings shouldn’t warrant a full shower, with one commenter humorously noting, “Nobody died from not showering after a 10-minute trip downstairs.”
Cultural Differences & Relationship Boundaries
The debate also exposed how personal hygiene expectations vary across cultures, households, and individual upbringings. Some Singaporeans shared that showering upon returning home is standard practice in their families, while others admitted they had never considered it necessary. Meanwhile, several commenters suggested that the boyfriend’s insistence may stem from habits developed during the pandemic, when heightened concerns over viruses made strict hygiene routines commonplace.
Relationship experts note that while maintaining good hygiene is important, imposing overly rigid rules can create unnecessary friction between partners. Open communication and mutual understanding are key to balancing comfort and cleanliness in a shared living space.
Healthy Habits or Overreaction?
This viral discussion has also sparked broader conversations about cleanliness in urban Singapore, where concerns over pollution and crowded environments can shape individual behaviour. Health professionals recommend changing clothes and washing hands after spending time in public spaces, but agree that showering after every short outing is a personal choice.
As Vanessa’s video continues to make waves online, it highlights the quirks and compromises inherent in relationships — and reminds us that sometimes, what seems trivial can become the spark for meaningful dialogue about personal values and boundaries.