15 house etiquette dos & don'ts when visiting someone’s home (2024)

Now that we're able to visit friends and family again post lockdown, have we forgotten how to behave outside our own home?

Thankfully the interior experts from Stelrad have pulled together a list of some of the basic home etiquettes that are most often overlooked. Want to make sure that you don't come across as disrespectful the next time you visit your loved ones? Then take a look at how you can avoid making some of the same mistakes…

1. Avoid asking for the WiFi code right away

Even though most of us are often glued to our mobile phones, it can be seen as rude to dive straight in for the WiFi code when you are visiting a friend or family member. Even if you are visiting a close friend, it is polite to wait a little before bringing out your phone and trying to connect to the WiFi.

2. Take your shoes off when you enter

Different households have different views on shoes in the home so it is always best to make sure you're on the same page. As you arrive at the entrance, it is good etiquette to remove your shoes before walking through the home, or check with the homeowner to see if they would prefer that you did so before going any further.

3. Keep screens away from the dinner table

After your hosts have gone to the effort of serving up a lovely meal, getting your phone out at mealtimes can be seen as a rude gesture. Taking a break from the screen, even if it is just while at the dinner table, is polite etiquette. It also allows you to enjoy uninterrupted time with your loved ones and friends as you tuck into a home cooked meal.

4. Don't go into bedrooms without permission

The bedroom is one of the most personal and private areas of our homes, which is why you should stay clear of it unless you are invited in. Sticking to communal areas such as the living room, kitchen and bathrooms will ensure that you don't risk overstepping the mark and making your host feel uncomfortable.

5. Avoid the temptation to open up the fridge

It is common courtesy to stay away from your host's fridge and kitchen cabinets, instead asking their permission if you would like any food or drink, rather than helping yourself. Many homeowners feel uncomfortable if they notice that their guests are snooping, so unless you have the green light to do so, avoid heading into the kitchen cabinets or fridge without asking first.

6. Don't turn up to a dinner party empty handed

Whether you're attending a family dinner, a meal with co-workers or a reunion with friends, showing your appreciation towards the host is considered good etiquette. It doesn't have to be a big or expensive gift, but a simple gesture to say thank you for hosting can go a long way. Common gifts include a bottle of wine, bouquet of flowers or a box of chocolates.

7. Wait to be offered food before tucking in

Helping yourself to food at somebody else's house can be misinterpreted as bad manners, especially if you are not particularly close with the homeowner. It is always good practice to double check before you begin tucking in. Wait for food to be offered or ask if you are okay to eat any food that may be within reach and left out.

8. Appreciate and accept food that is offered to you

And while we are on the topic of food, if a host has put the time and effort into making food and drink for their guests, it can be seen as rude if you turn it down completely. Although this will differ from person to person, it is polite to join the homeowners in enjoying their offerings, even if it's just in small quantities. Of course, this may not be applicable if you have dietary requirements or are making an unplanned appearance. But people often like to see their guests enjoying their hospitality.

9. Keep your feet off of the furniture

Even if you're used to putting your feet up on the coffee table or relaxing across the sofa in your own home, it is polite to avoid doing this when at somebody else's. Some people do not like feet on the furniture, even if you are wearing socks or slippers, as this may be seen as a sign of disrespect for their home. If you are visiting a close friend or family member and feel comfortable in their home, it is still courtesy to ask for permission to do so before you make yourself too comfy.

10. Don't bring four legged friends along without asking first

Bringing your pet along to someone else's home without prior discussion can catch homeowners by surprise and it may not always be a welcome addition. Instead of assuming that it will be fine to do so, always check that the homeowners are happy for you to bring your pets along. Make sure to check in advance that there are no allergies, children or other pets to worry about as well.

11. Always flush the toilet

Although this may seem obvious, not everyone is in the habit of flushing the toilet after use. Regardless of whether you're on a mission to save water in your own home, make sure to flush when you're a guest in somebody else's. And on that note, always ensure the toilet lid is put down after use.

12. Use a coaster when putting drinks down

You never want to leave unsightly ring marks on a surface, especially if the furniture is not your own! To ensure that this doesn't happen, always ask for a coaster before you place your drink down. If the host doesn’t use coasters or has no more to use, at least you've asked and have been given their go ahead.

13. Take your outerwear off when you're indoors

Even if you're not planning to stay for long, it is good etiquette to remove your coat and any winter woollies such as hats, scarves and gloves when you enter a home. For a homeowner, having guests who are dressed for the outdoors can be an unsettling feeling, making them worry that their home may be cold indoors. It may also leave them unable to relax as you look ready to head right out.

14. Wash your hands before dinner

We're used to washing our hands now more than ever, but before you sit down at the table to enjoy a meal, make sure your hands are clean and fresh. This is especially true if you are breaking up bread, sharing serving utensils or pouring drinks.

15. Keep your opinions on how they've decorated to yourself

And finally, although this should be obvious, making negative comments about the appearance of your family or friend's home can be taken the wrong way. Even if you have good intentions, keep any criticisms to yourself unless you are asked for your opinion. After all, everyone has different tastes!

Follow House Beautiful on Instagram.