Here are some essential table manners and dining etiquette that everyone should know: Wash your hands before eating. Put your napkin in your lap at the beginning of the meal, and use it to blot your lips and clean your fingers throughout the meal. Chew with your mouth closed and avoid making noises while eating. Wait until everyone is served before starting to eat. Avoid playing with items on the table like sweetener packets, salt, or pepper shakers. Don't reach across the table to get something; ask for it to be passed to you instead. Keep elbows off the table while eating. Use utensils properly, starting from the outside and working your way in. Don't talk with food in your mouth. Say "please" and "thank you" when appropriate. Avoid double-dipping chips or vegetables into shared bowls. Ask to be excused from the table when finished eating. Thank the host or whoever prepared the meal. Offer to help clear the table when the meal is over. By practicing these table manners and dining etiquette, you can make mealtimes more pleasant and enjoyable for everyone involved.