In a compelling testament to the challenges faced by young workers in urban China, 18-year-old Ms. Yang has adopted an unconventional living arrangement to manage her financial constraints.
Her living quarters of choice? Her office toilet.
China woman sleeps inside office toilet for RM30 monthly
Earning approximately RMB2,700 (around RM1,640) per month, Yang found it difficult to afford standard housing options, which could cost up to RMB1,800 (approximately RM1,100).
To circumvent this, she arranged with her employer to reside in the office restroom for a modest fee of RMB50 (about RM30) monthly, which is inclusive of her utilities.
Yang’s living space consists of a six-square-meter restroom equipped with two toilet cubicles and a sink. She has since transformed the area into a functional living quarters by adding a foldable bed, curtain, cooking equipment, and a clothes rack.
This setup allows her to prepare meals, sleep, and store personal belongings within the confines of the restroom.
During working hours, the restroom remains accessible to other employees and customers, with Yang ensuring it is cleaned daily to maintain hygiene standards.
Despite this, Yang said that her belongings have remained secure even with leaving the door unlocked and that the toilet is free from unpleasant odors.
Yang’s employer, Ms. Xu, has expressed understanding of the difficulties faced by young individuals starting their careers and had previously offered Yang temporary accommodation at her own residence.
Yang’s choice to live in her workplace’s restroom highlights the broader issue of affordable housing for low-income workers in urban areas.
Moved into the office
After spending a month living in the office toilet, Yang has finally moved into a proper space within the office itself.
Her employer allowed her to shift into a renovated office room, providing her with a more comfortable and private environment compared to the cramped toilet space.
Despite the move, Yang continues to live frugally and hopes to save enough money to one day afford her own place or even buy a car.
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