20 Things to Never Do at the Dinner Table

One of my pet peeves is people's table manners, and manners in general, when they are eating.

Here are twenty "nevers" that you should never do while eating... especially in public or at a dinner party.

1.) Never eat VERY fast.

Speed eaters. Ugh. They usually leave a mess behind and then either sit at watch everyone else eating, or talk non-stop to you and ruin the meal

2.) Never over fill your mouth.

I had an Uncle who did this at every family dinner. His cheeks were packed like a squirrel. He always ended up red faced and sweaty by the end of the meal. I never got that.

3.) Never open your mouth while chewing.

Try not to yawn or laugh with food in your mouth.

4.) Never make unnecessary noise with your mouth or throat.

Do not moan or groan. Absolutely don't "ahhhhhh" while slapping or rubbing your belly and leaning back in your chair.

5.) Never attempt to talk while you have food in your mouth.

People can see your food while you're doing this. Plus, food will inevitably fall or shoot out.

6.) Never carry food away from the table.

If you're still hungry, sit and eat.

7.) Never encourage a dog or cat to play with you while you are at the table.

It's just rude and dirty.

8.) Never use an inappropriate utensil to feed yourself.

Don't stab a potato with a knife and start gnawing on it like it's a medieval turkey leg.

9.) Never explain at the table why certain foods do not agree with you.

People don't want to know what beans do to you. Just don't eat any and keep your gastrointestinal issues to your self.

10.) Never introduce disgusting or unpleasant topics for conversation.

No gore, odd political views, death or dirty jokes.

11.) Never pick your teeth or put your fingers in your mouth.

Yeah... that's just gross.

12.) Never come to the table with dirty hands.

If you're a farmer or an auto mechanic, people understand that some things just don't wash off. I'm talking about the dirt and grime that does wash off.

13.) Never use your own knife to cut butter.

It's like double dipping. And, don't double dip either!

14.) Never wipe your fingers on your clothing or the table cloth.

Use a napkin. If yours is dirty or lost, ask for a new one.