Visiting someone’s house can be exciting, but it’s important to remember that you’re a guest in their space. Good manners and respect for others’ property ensure everyone feels comfortable. This blog covers 13 things you should never touch when in someone else’s home, helping you avoid awkward situations and be a great guest.
The thermostat
Changing the temperature without asking is a big no-no. Your host has set the thermostat to their preferred comfort level. If you’re feeling too hot or cold, it’s better to speak up and ask if they can adjust it. Remember, heating and cooling costs money, so messing with the thermostat can affect their energy bill. It’s always best to let your host control the climate in their home.
Personal mail or documents
Mail and papers lying around might look interesting, but they’re private. Reading someone else’s mail or documents is not only rude but can also be illegal. These items often contain personal information the owner doesn’t want to share. If you see important-looking papers on a table or desk, pretend they’re not there. Respect your host’s privacy and keep your hands and eyes to yourself.
Medicine cabinets
The medicine cabinet is off-limits, even if you’re looking for something simple like aspirin. It contains personal items and private health information. Snooping in someone’s medicine cabinet can make them feel very uncomfortable. Always ask your host first if you need medication or a first-aid item. They’ll gladly help you find what you need without invading their privacy.
Closed doors
A closed door in someone’s house is closed for a reason. It might be hiding a messy room, private belongings, or simply an area the host doesn’t want guests to see. Opening closed doors without permission is very rude and can make your host feel like their space has been invaded. Stick to the areas of the house where you’ve been invited, and always ask before entering a room with a closed door.
The TV remote
Changing channels or turning on the TV without asking can be annoying for your host. They might have specific shows they want to watch or prefer to have the TV off during visits. The remote control might also have special settings you could accidentally mess up. If you want to watch something, politely ask your host if it’s okay to turn on the TV. Better yet, engage in conversation instead of focusing on the screen.
Personal electronics
Smartphones, tablets, and computers often contain private information and messages. Picking up or using someone else’s device without permission is a big invasion of privacy. It’s best to keep your hands off even if you’re just curious about what kind of phone they have. If you need to call or use the internet, ask your host if they can help. Most people are happy to assist if you ask nicely.
Framed photos
Photo frames might seem sturdy, but they can be delicate. Picking them up risks dropping and breaking them, which could damage precious memories. Photos are also very personal items that might bring up emotions for your host. It’s okay to look at photos displayed in common areas, but don’t touch or move them. If you’re curious about a picture, ask your host about it instead of handling the frame yourself.
The fridge
Opening someone’s fridge without asking is considered rude in many cultures. The contents of a fridge can be very personal, and your host might not want you to see what’s inside. They might also have food prepared for a specific purpose or time. If you’re hungry or thirsty, ask your host if they can get you something. Most people are happy to offer refreshments to their guests when asked politely.
Decorative items
Fancy vases, figurines, or other decorative objects might look interesting, but they can be fragile and expensive. Touching or moving these items risks breaking them, which could be very upsetting for your host. Some decorations might also have sentimental value that isn’t obvious to guests. It’s best to enjoy decorative items with your eyes only. If you’re really curious about something, ask your host about it instead of picking it up.
Pets without permission
Even if you love animals, not all pets want to be touched by strangers. Some might be shy, easily stressed, or even aggressive towards people they don’t know. Petting or trying to play with someone’s pet without asking can put you at risk of being scratched or bitten. It’s also disrespectful to the pet’s owner, who knows their animal’s temperament best. Always ask before interacting with someone’s pet, and respect the answer if they say no.
Musical instruments
Instruments can be expensive and are often set up in a specific way for the player. Touching or trying to play someone’s instrument without permission can mess up their settings or even cause damage. Musicians often have a strong personal connection to their instruments and might not want others handling them. If you’re interested in an instrument you see, ask the owner about it. They might be happy to show you how it works or even play something for you.
Home office equipment
Today, many people have home offices with computers, printers, and other work equipment. These items often contain sensitive work information and are set up in a specific way. Touching or using office equipment without permission can cause problems for your host’s work and expose you to private information you shouldn’t see. Even if you need to print something urgently, always ask before using office equipment in someone’s home.
Bookshelves and books
While browsing someone’s book collection might be tempting, pulling books off shelves without asking can be rude. Books might be arranged in a specific order, and taking them out can mess up the system. Some books might also be rare, valuable, or have sentimental meaning to the owner. Feel free to look at book spines and admire the collection from afar. If a title catches your eye, ask your host about it. They might be happy to talk about their favorite books or even lend you one if you’re interested.
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