At one time or another during our lives, we are graciously offered houseroom by someone else, whether it be for a sleepover, family reunions or one friend helping another avoid hotel room fees. But what you have to remember is that these people don't have to let you into their house, and are actually bestowing a great honor on you. They're being nice, and so you should be nice in return. Here are some things that you should always keep in mind and that will make the burden of keeping you less so.
1. Ask If They Need Help
Whenever your host is doing a task or chore, ask if they need assistance — whether it be doing dishes, sweeping or vacuuming, or letting the dog outside. Offering to help shows them that you’re not freeloading them and that you are eager to show how much you appreciate their generosity, and most of the time they’ll be grateful to you for trying to assist.
2. Clean Up After Yourself
Whoever is living with you always appreciates it if you tidy up behind yourself. Your host let you into their home; don’t defile it or go crazy. If you take a shower clean your hair out of the drain, don’t spit all over their sink when brushing your teeth, make your bed, and don’t scatter your stuff everywhere. Keeping your stuff all in one place also helps so you don’t accidentally forget something there.
3. Always Ask Questions
Different homes have different rules. For instance, some families don’t eat in the living room, so don’t take your snack there without asking if it’s okay. Ask if they have recycling. If you’re looking for toilet paper or forks, ask where they are instead of rummaging around. If you’re thirsty, ask if you may have a glass of water. This is their home, so searching like you have a warrant for something you want isn’t exactly kosher.
4. Remember Your Manners
When you pay to stay somewhere, you’re paying for a safe place to sleep and for other people to clean up after you. Staying at someone else’s house, for free, you need to tell them please and thank you all the time. They chose to have people over, and yes, while they might enjoy helping others and being a service to you, it makes it even more enjoyable for them when their guests are extra nice.
5. Do Something For Them
If they fed you, offer them compensation for the food. If they’re someone who won’t accept money, subtly find out what their favorite flowers are or their favorite fruits or vegetables and surprise them. The best way to give back as well is to write them a handwritten thank you note detailing something they did for you and the courtesy they provided.
