Imagine entering a home that is warm and welcoming, a haven filled with laughter and the smell of home cooking.
Yet beneath this inviting exterior lies an unspoken set of rules, the violation of which could lead to discomfort or even tension between hosts and guests.
For many, the anxiety of navigating someone else’s space can be overwhelming—especially when they may inadvertently cross boundaries that are sacred to their hosts. Understanding and respecting these boundaries is not just about etiquette; it is a recognition of the trust and comfort that homeowners provide to their guests.
Here are nine items you should never touch, or only touch with permission first.
Because homes are a refuge and a place of safety for people, it can be a little intimidating for them to host guests and know how to treat them with respect. These are nine items you should never touch or touch with permission first.
1. Door handles
It is impractical to count on the fact that a visitor will never handle a doorknob in someone else’s house. Eventually, you may need to use the restroom. And you can’t get in without first opening the door. However, good manners dictate that you should always ask permission before entering, so don’t open the front door without asking the person you see first.
This also applies to internal doors – such as those in spare rooms or bedrooms – which may be closed. It’s also a good idea to wash and/or disinfect your hands before entering the house, especially if someone living there has a compromised immune system, as touching surfaces can transfer germs.
2. Bedroom
As previously mentioned, the bedroom is their most private place; however, closed doors are prohibited without permission.
Therefore, even if you have permission to “make yourself at home,” walking into someone’s bedroom is usually not the most considerate way to visit someone you love. On the other hand, it may be necessary to violate the personal space of a bedridden person during a visit. In these situations, it is strongly recommended to wash your hands well before entering.
3. Wi-Fi
If you’re just stopping by to visit or share a meal, it’s often considered impolite to ask for the Wi-Fi password because you’re there to spend time with the host. If, on the other hand, you are a frequent visitor who plans to stay for a longer period, you can request a Wi-Fi password.
4. Cooling units
It is not ideal for guests to enter the house and start rummaging through the kitchen, including the cupboards and fridge, unless they are invited to “help themselves to a drink or a snack”. Plus, returning guests are likely to leave a better impression if they volunteer to help in the kitchen. Volunteering to help clean up after a meal is another strong indicator that you are following the appropriate protocol.
5. Stay off the floor.
You can never avoid the floor when entering a house, but shoes can bring in various external pathogens.
Mud, gas dripping from the nozzle, sticky spilled drinks, oils from passing cars on the road, and so on. Taking off before entering the house is therefore a good example of basic etiquette, or at least offering to do so.
However, some people wear shoes inside their homes, so it’s okay if you do the same. It is usually a good idea to inquire about their preferences before entering the house.
6. Or use your feet for anything
Unless an adult living in the house gives permission, it’s still not a good idea to put your feet on the furniture, even if shoes have been removed at the door. Usually, this guideline is not strict. However, placing your feet on surfaces such as counters or tables is never acceptable and is often considered impolite.
7. Avoid the thermostat
This should go without saying. You don’t have the right to change the temperature at any time because you’re not paying the bills. This also applies to windows that open independently.
Alternatively, the occupants of the house are usually happy to make adjustments to ensure the comfort of their visitors. Other electrical devices such as telephones, laptops, and televisions may occasionally be subject to this rule.
8. Letter
In addition to being illegal to go through someone’s mail, it is also considered impolite and can be very disruptive.
9. Every space is closed
Going behind closed doors is the opposite of good manners, as has already been said.
However, this rule does not only apply to doors. Covers all enclosed spaces such as laundry rooms, desk drawers, closets, and medicine cabinets.
Most people try to treat other people with the same respect they expect in return.
As a result, it can be difficult to know how to behave when visiting someone else’s home. It is also important to keep in mind that different jurisdictions and cultures have different views on what constitutes disrespectful behavior. Fortunately, most people in these social settings know each other well, which often helps ease some of the burden.
In situations where this may not be the case, a plethora of web resources such as Reader’s Digest and Indeed provide clear guidelines to ensure you always present well in any environment.
In conclusion, navigating the nuances of etiquette in someone else’s home can be daunting, but it is necessary to foster respectful and harmonious interaction. The nine items outlined above serve as essential reminders of boundaries that should generally be respected.
Understanding and following these guidelines not only demonstrates consideration for your host’s personal space and belongings but also fosters an atmosphere of mutual respect and comfort.Â
While cultural differences may affect behavioral expectations, the basic principle remains the same: treat others’ homes with the same respect as you would your own. By following these unspoken rules, you can create positive and enjoyable experiences for yourself and your hosts. The ultimate goal is to enhance relationships through thoughtful events and ensure that every visit is memorable for all the right reasons.