Etiquette experts outline impolite behaviors during home visits

Etiquette experts have identified several common impolite behaviors to avoid when visiting someone else's home. Jodi R. R. Smith, president of Mannersmith Etiquette Consulting, notes that guests should not take the phrase ‘feel at home’ literally by putting feet on furniture or opening refrigerators without permission.

Key recommendations include avoiding unannounced room tours if the host does not offer them, and being mindful of body language to avoid overstaying a visit. Experts also advise against snooping in cabinets, bringing uninvited guests, or failing to disclose dietary restrictions in advance. Additionally, guests are cautioned not to hide accidental damage or spills and to avoid sharing food with the host's pets.