14 Things Europeans Don’t Understand About American Houses
14 Things Europeans Don’t Understand About American Houses
In many ways, American homes are just as unique as the culture itself. When Europeans visit the States, they often find some of these everyday American house habits quite surprising. I know that when I went to live in the USA, there were many things that surprised me in American homes.
From the structure of the homes to the lifestyle habits within, these distinctive features paint a clear picture of suburban American life. Here we share some of these habits to see how different or similar they are from European standards.
1. Having to double flush
One notable peculiarity in many American homes is the need to double flush the toilet. This can be quite a surprise to Europeans, who might be used to more powerful toilets. In the U.S., the need for a second flush might stem from water-saving measures or plumbing issues, which can be less efficient at times.
2. Carpet everywhere
Wall-to-wall carpeting is another feature commonly found in American homes, quite different from the hardwood or tile floors prevalent in Europe. Carpets, regarded for their warmth and comfort, are installed in various rooms, including living areas, bedrooms, and sometimes even bathrooms and kitchens.
3. Kitchen for decoration
Many American kitchens look pristine, often because they are seldom used for cooking. This could be surprising for many Europeans who might use their kitchens more frequently. In the U.S., the trend of eating out often or ordering delivery might explain the underuse of this otherwise well-equipped and often beautifully designed space.
4. Sink garbage destroyer
Known as the garbage disposal, this device is a common fixture in American kitchens. It allows for food waste to be ground up and washed down the drain, a concept that might be unfamiliar or even startling for some Europeans who are used to composting or using food bins.
5. Walk in closets are the norm
Spacious walk-in closets are a standard feature in many American homes. These large storage areas for clothes and accessories are quite a luxury compared to the often smaller wardrobes found in European homes.
6. Dryers are the norm
While drying clothes on lines or racks is common in Europe, American homes usually come with a machine dryer. This reliance on electrical drying is tied to convenience and the larger living spaces that accommodate such appliances.
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7. AC is a given
Air conditioning is virtually a standard in American homes, a necessity rather than a luxury due to the broader range of climates and often hotter summers compared to Europe.
8. Having a dedicated TV room and a separate living room
It’s common for American homes to have both a dedicated TV room, often called a family room, and a separate, more formal living room. This separation emphasizes a distinction between a space for relaxation and another for entertaining guests.
9. Having a wooden deck
A wooden deck is a popular addition to many American homes, providing a perfect spot for outdoor relaxation and entertaining. This feature is less common in European houses, where gardens and patios often serve a similar purpose.
10. Double garage
American homes frequently feature double garages, accommodating two or more vehicles, reflecting the car-dependent culture. In contrast, garages in Europe are generally smaller or non-existent in many urban areas.
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11. Having a laundry room
A dedicated laundry room for washing, drying, and folding clothes is a common feature in American homes. This room adds a level of convenience that is typically absent in smaller European homes or apartments.
12. Putting your shoes away in your bedroom closet
In the U.S., it is typical for individuals to store their shoes in their bedroom closets rather than by the entryway. This habit differs from many European homes, where shoes are often kept near the door.
13. Fake plants for decoration
Fake plants are a popular decorative choice in many American homes. These require no maintenance and provide a consistently fresh look, unlike the live plants more commonly found in European homes.
14. Hanging antlers on the walls
Displaying antlers as a form of wall decoration can be quite surprising to Europeans. This type of decor, often seen in more rural or Western parts of the U.S., showcases a connection to hunting and wildlife, which varies significantly from European decorative norms.
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We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home. With over 10 years of experience in dating and traveling to romantic places, we share our favorite date ideas and romantic destinations to help couples level up their relationships. Having lived in and traveled through the USA, we also share our favourite things to do in the States.
With 70,000 monthly readers and 16,000 followers on social media, Be Right Back is your go-to resource for romantic trip ideas and couple activities at home and abroad.