Have you ever looked back at the household rules you grew up with and thought, “There’s no way that would fly today”? I sure have. Times have changed — from technology making certain chores obsolete, to shifting ideas about health, safety, and what’s considered “good manners.”
Growing up, I followed plenty of rules that seemed completely normal back then, but now they feel downright bizarre. Looking back, some make me laugh, some make me shake my head, and a few make me wonder how we ever thought they were a good idea.
Here are 13 of those old-fashioned household rules I remember (and have seen echoed in friends’ and family’s homes), each one a little time capsule of a different era.
1. The Man is Always Right
In the past, it was often believed that the man was the head of the household and his word was law. This kind of thinking was deeply entrenched in societal norms and expectations of the time.
Today, however, this rule would be seen as outdated and sexist. Equality and mutual respect are fundamental values in modern households. Decision-making is a shared responsibility where all voices are heard and respected.
2. Children Should Be Seen and Not Heard
This rule was very popular in the Victorian era and even persisted into the 20th century, suggesting that children should behave well and not disturb the adults. This rule, however, is now widely viewed as harmful and outdated.
Current child development research emphasizes the importance of open communication and active participation in family matters for a child’s development.
3. Women Should Stay At Home
This rule emerged from the traditional belief that men should be the breadwinners while women should manage the house and look after the children.
Today, this rule is no longer applicable as more women are joining the workforce, achieving higher education, and breaking gender norms. The idea of assigning roles based on gender is largely seen as outdated and discriminatory in today’s society.
4. No Elbows On The Table
This rule was once considered a part of good table manners, but is now seen as relatively unimportant. While it’s still considered impolite to sprawl across a table during a formal dinner, in most casual settings, people are not likely to be offended by someone resting their elbows on the table.
5. Don’t Wear Hats Indoors
This rule originated from a time when hats were worn for practical purposes, like protecting one’s head from the elements. When you entered a building, it was considered polite to remove your hat.
Nowadays, hats are often worn as fashion accessories, and the rules about when and where they can be worn have relaxed significantly.
6. No Phones At The Dinner Table
While this rule still holds some relevance today, it is often disregarded, especially among younger generations. With the advent of smartphones and the digital age, many people find it difficult to disconnect, even during mealtimes.
7. No Talking During Television Shows
Before the invention of DVR and streaming services, talking during a show meant missing out on the plot. Today, we can pause, rewind, and re-watch shows at our convenience, making this rule obsolete.
8. Always Wear Your Sunday Best to Church
Many churches have relaxed their dress codes in recent years, recognizing that the focus should be on the individual’s relationship with God rather than their physical appearance.
9. Only Adults Can Sit At The Main Table
At large family gatherings, children were often relegated to a separate “kids’ table.” This rule is less common today, as including children in the main gathering is seen as beneficial to their social development.
10. No Reading At The Table
This rule was enforced to encourage conversation during meals. Now, with the rise of digital media, this rule has largely been forgotten, although some families still enforce a “no screens at the table” rule.
11. No White After Labor Day
This fashion rule has long been discarded as people have gained more freedom to wear what they want, when they want.
12. Guests Should Be Entertained In The Living Room
In the past, the living room was reserved for entertaining guests while the rest of the house was kept private. This rule has relaxed in modern homes, where guests are often given a tour of the entire home.
13. Always Offer Tea To Visitors
While it’s still polite to offer a beverage to guests, the specific rule of offering tea is less common, particularly in countries where tea is not the go-to drink. Nowadays, hosts are likely to offer a range of beverages based on their guest’s preference.
As society evolves, so too do our household rules. It’s fascinating to reflect on how far we’ve come and the changes that have taken place within our homes. What other household rules from the past can you think of that wouldn’t work today?
