I was off to a rough start when I started the shed life, but now that I am growing accustom to the lifestyle, I am really starting to enjoy it.
If you have been following me, you will know that my partner and I broke up. I was living in his 42' luxury RV, so when we broke up, I lost my living quarters.
I had some important decisions to make. Will I stay on the property? Will I continue to live off-grid? What will I actually live in? Facing some existential questions and pondering deep thoughts about the direction of my life, I decided to stand my ground and keep my off-grid dream going.
Hence, I moved into my 9x12' shed, and I haven't looked back!
The first few nights were rough, mainly due to fears of using an indoor propane heater, as you can read about in my prior article. Also, sleeping on an air mattress was pretty chilly, as the cool air from the floor and wall suck into the mattress, giving the sleeper a chilly experience.
But I became more comfortable with the propane heater (which works really well) and I added layers to my air mattress to mostly block out the cold.
Once I figured out my sleeping comfort, things started to fall into place.
Setting up Systems
When living in a very small space, the most important component is setting up systems. At first, you will bump into everything, can't find what you are looking for - despite being in a small space - and will kerfuffle through all the basic things you do in life, from brushing teeth to making toast.
But once you refine your processes, your body starts to develop a muscle memory to the space you are in. This is a super important transition process critical to your comfort!
The main sections of my tiny house
Kitchen
The hardest component to get used to living without is not having running water. However, I have created a primitive water method using a large jug with a spigot at the end. I then place a tub under the jug for the dirty water. I can brush my teeth with this setup pretty easily, do a little bit of dish rinsing, and wash my hands. Just be careful leaving the spigot open, because you will run out of water quick!
For now, I am using an electric cooktop that works very well. It boils water and gets very hot. However, it takes time to cool down, so be careful with this appliance. I also use my air fryer everyday and it is seriously awesome in this small space. It doesn't smoke up the house either.
Dishes are the most annoying thing to do when you don't have running water. For now, I am using two tubs, one for washing and one for drying. I do the dishes outdoors on a table. Luckily, the weather is usually pleasant in Arizona.
Beauty Area
I can't call it a bathroom, but I am able to find my little spot of luxury in my beauty area. I boil water for washing up, I have my soaps, lotions, creams, and oils to keep me looking fine! I also have this beautiful leaded vintage glass vanity that I have held onto for years. It fits perfectly atop my mini fridge. This little space improves my morale and keeps me going on hygiene.
What do I do for bathing? I joined the local gym for $20 a month, so I get access to unlimited hot water for showers. It is amazing! I also work out and meet people.
Bedroom
I have a double tall twin size air mattress that actually has a blow up headboard to it, which provides me great comfort. It has an onboard pump so I don't have to hassle with hooking up and unhooking. It blows up in about three minutes, and the sheets actually stay intact when I deflate it so I don't constantly have to make the bed. This air mattress has been my lifesaver.
I am fortunate that the shed came with a plethora of shelving. I even have room for all my books and jewelry.
Bathroom
For "number one", I use a female urinal, also known as a She Wee. It's a small plastic funnel that tucks in between my legs so I can pee anywhere, and pee standing up. It's a great invention. At night, I use one of those plastic urinals to pee in, and it works fine.
What do I do when doodie calls? I just go outside. I am "rewilding" so to speak. I fertilize my mesquite trees and enjoy the fresh air. I could get a composting toilet and set up an outhouse, but for now, I am perfectly fine rewilding my doodie.
Some Important Safety Precautions
I have installed a smoke alarm/carbon monoxide alarm which is super important when living in small spaces. I also have a small RV sized fire extinguisher just in case. I have thought a lot about if there is an emergency and how quickly I can get out of the shed. It's important to be safe in your home, no matter how big or small.
Conclusion
At first, living in the shed was hard. I was uncomfortable, bumping into things, the transition was tough. But after two weeks, I actually really love it.
I love it because it is my little cozy space. It doesn't take much to clean. It doesn't take much to heat. Everything is in my immediate area.
I also love it because it is paid off, so my cost of living is super duper cheap right now. Its like living in a dorm, or tiny studio apartment.
Don't forget to follow me so you can keep up on my off-grid journey!
Sincerely, Regina Cal.
