Below is a friendly and concise guide to living in Finnish apartments, with a focus on what makes them unique—and how to make the most of your new home. Feel free to share this article with incoming employees or anyone relocating to Finland.
1. Typical Temperatures & Lack of Air Conditioning
Indoor Temperatures
- In Finland, apartments are usually kept at 19–21°C (66–70°F) during the winter. This may feel cool if you’re used to higher indoor temps, so pack or buy some cozy socks (E.g. Helsinki wool sock factory) and sweaters.
- In the summer, Finland can occasionally get hot, but most buildings don’t have air conditioning, because truly warm weather only lasts for about 1–2 months a year.
Winter Tips
- Make sure windows and balcony doors are tightly closed, especially in older buildings. This helps keep the heat in and energy costs down.
- Some apartments have mechanical ventilation or basic vents in the kitchen and bathroom—these are usually sufficient for air circulation.
2. Water, Water Valves & Kitchen Essentials
Water Quality & Conservation:
- In Finland, tap water is exceptionally clean, fresh, and perfectly safe to drink—there’s no need to purchase bottled water. At the same time, because we treasure this precious resource, be mindful of water usage and try to conserve wherever possible.
Dishwashers & Washing Machines
- Many Finnish apartments have separate water valves for dishwashers and washing machines. Make sure to open these valves before use and close them afterward to avoid leaks or unnecessary water flow.
- If in doubt, ask your landlord or housing provider (e.g., Comodo) for a quick demo.
Garbage Sorting
- Recycling is important in Finland. You’ll typically find separate bins for mixed waste, paper, cardboard, bio waste, glass, and metal. Check your building’s waste collection point for labels and instructions.
3. Communal Areas & House Rules
Quiet Hours
- Finnish apartment buildings enforce quiet hours (often 10 pm–7 am). During this time, it’s expected that neighbors don’t play loud music or make excessive noise.
Electricity saving
Due to the current global situation, Finland occasionally faces higher electricity demand or shortages. It’s important to use electricity moderately:
- If possible, run the dishwasher and washing machine during off-peak or night-time hours to help balance electricity usage.
- If your apartment has a private sauna, only heat it when you plan to use it and keep the door securely closed so the heat doesn’t escape.
- Never dry clothes or other items in a sauna while the heater is on—it’s unsafe and may cause a fire.
Shared Spaces
- Many buildings have bike or stroller storage rooms (pyörävarasto), sometimes used for sleds or other outdoor gear. Feel free to store your items here —just remember to label them.
- Laundry Rooms (pesutupa) and Drying Room (kuivaushuone) are common and often equipped with large washing machines and spacious drying rooms. You’ll typically need to reserve a time slot in advance and possibly pay a small fee.
Sauna Culture
- Some buildings have a common sauna. You can book a private weekly slot (for a small fee) or use “lenkkisauna” times, often separated for women and men. It’s a great way to experience a cornerstone of Finnish culture!
4. Shoes Off & Home Comfort
Shoes Off Indoors
- In Finland, it’s standard practice to take off your shoes when entering a home. This keeps floors clean, especially in winter and muddy seasons.
Unfurnished vs. Furnished Apartments
- Unfurnished rental apartments in Finland usually include kitchen cabinets, a stove, and basic fixtures, but electricity, water, and internet might require separate contracts.
- Furnished apartments (like those offered by Comodo) generally come with comfortable furniture, linens, and utilities (electricity, water, internet). Pets are welcome in many cases, but always confirm first.
Taking Care of Your Apartment
- Whether furnished or not, it’s essential to clean regularly. Any damage caused by you or your visitors may be your responsibility.
- No smoking is typically allowed indoors, and this may carry fines if violated. Respecting these rules helps maintain good relations with neighbors and your landlord.
5. More Insights: Common Facilities & Winter Drying Tips
Drying Clothes
- Many apartments don’t have a tumble dryer, partly due to Finland’s dry indoor air in winter (and minimal hot, humid summer days). Clothes often dry quickly on a rack or in a designated drying room.
- Some buildings have outdoor drying racks for that fresh, icy winter scent—try it if you’re feeling adventurous!
Why We Love Staying In
- Finnish winters can be long and dark, so cozy home life (“hygge”) is important. People spend more time indoors, which is why keeping your home welcoming and well-maintained matters a lot—think soft blankets, candles, or fairy lights.
6. Practical Tips for Settling In
- Register Your Address: A valid address (even temporary) helps you open a bank account, get a phone plan, and register for municipal services.
- Ask About Pet Policies: If you have pets, confirm that they are allowed. Some landlords will require extra fees or deposit.
- Enjoy the Sauna: Give sauna culture a try! It’s a great way to de-stress, especially in colder months.
- Stay Friendly & Flexible: Finnish neighbors appreciate quiet and respect, so be mindful of your noise levels.
- Check Out Expat Finland for More: You’ll find plenty of detailed info about daily life, relocation services, and cultural tips.
Moving to Finland and stepping into your new apartment can be both exciting and a bit daunting. However, once you know the basics—like how to handle quiet hours, recycle correctly, and deal with Finland’s unique temperature shifts—you’ll soon feel right at home. Whether you’re an HR professional assisting newcomers or a new resident yourself, these practical tips will help you enjoy a comfortable and confident start to Finnish life.