Houseguest Access

: If a guest won't leave, be firm but kind. Use phrases like, "I appreciate you visiting, but I need to get back to my routine and have the house to myself now" .

Five tips for being a gracious house guest - Clise Etiquette

: Small touches go a long way. Provide clean linens, extra blankets, and a basket of travel-sized toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, lotion). Houseguest

: Take out the trash or help clean the dining table.

: Instead of asking "What can I do?", offer specific tasks. : If a guest won't leave, be firm but kind

: Ask about food allergies or dietary restrictions before they arrive. Consider leaving a "dark makeup towel" in the bathroom to prevent stains on your light-colored linens.

Being a great houseguest—or a gracious host—is about balancing hospitality with boundaries. While there are no universal "hard-and-fast" laws, following general etiquette guidelines helps ensure everyone remains on good terms. The Golden Rules for Guests Provide clean linens, extra blankets, and a basket

: Aim to keep your area as neat as you found it. Make your bed daily, don't leave clothes scattered, and if you are using a pull-out couch, reset it to its regular state each morning.