The first type of games that will probably come to mind when you think of casino etiquette are table games such as blackjack, roulette, poker, etc., however it’s equally important to practice good slot machine etiquette as well. True, playing slots may not require a lot of social interaction with other people, but there’s still some important things you should follow.
Just like any behavior that goes down in public places, it’s always common courtesy to respect and behave properly around other people in order to create a positive environment. With that said, we’ll be going over some proper etiquette for playing slots as well as other casino games.
Slot Machine Etiquette
To get started, we’ll first be focusing our attention on slot machine etiquette. This will help teach you how to treat fellow players and the staff around you with respect.
- Playing More than One Machine
Don’t be a hog and play on more than one machine at a time. This should not be practiced, only unless the casino isn’t busy, but still, it’s not encouraged as someone else may want to play the machine you’re playing on.
- Finding a Lost Card
Most casinos nowadays have special cards their players can use to make it more convenient for them. The only problem is that they can be easily lost or left behind at the machine they were previously on. If by any chance, you have found another person’s card inside one of the slot machines, it’s common courtesy to take it out and put it on top on the machine. This is done so that the person who lost their card can easily find it by retracing their footsteps and returning to the last machine they were on.
- Holding a Machine
Most likely you’ve been in a situation where you don’t want to leave the slot you’re playing on all because you need to use the restroom or something. If this happens (and it probably will), be sure to place a sign or try leaning your chair against it to let others know you will be right back. Keep in mind, there may be others who want to play that game, so if you are planning to leave, make sure you don’t go for too long.
- Volume Control
You may have noticed that most of the slot machines you will find at the casinos will have an option to adjust the volume on them. If you do go into the volume settings, just be sure not to turn it up too high as this can distract those playing around you and become very annoying.
- Being a Spectator
Do not hover over a stranger’s shoulder while they’re playing in order to watch them. This can cause unnecessary pressure on someone causing them to feel rushed and uncomfortable.
- Touching Someone Else’s Machine
Never lay a finger or lean on someone else’s machine. This includes the person themselves as well as the chair they’re sitting on. This can be very annoying and could even cause the player to make an incorrect bet.
- Pounding the Buttons
Not only can pounding on the machines cause damage to them, but it can also be very annoying for those playing close by.
Casino Etiquette
Casino etiquette isn’t just about slot machines. In general, it applies to everything inside of the casino and on other games such as poker, roulette, blackjack, craps and more. Since we spoke specifically about slots before, now we’ll be focusing our attention on all the other casino games.
- Clean Up After Yourself
Don’t make a huge mess by leaving your trash around, cigarette ashes, spilling drinks, etc. And also be sure to cover your mouth when sneezing or coughing, and not play with dirty sticky hands.
- Don’t Just Sit
This is a big “no-no”. Whatever you do, never just sit in an empty seat in from of a game if you’re not going to play, especially when it’s busy. Not only does this look bad, but you could also be preventing someone else from enjoying.
- Tipping
Just like any place you go and get served at, you should always leave a tip. At casinos it’s very important for the servers and dealers as this is what they’re working for and where a majority of their income comes from. This couldn’t be stressed enough, especially in circumstances where you’re being served free drinks. If you’re not sure how much you should tip, it’s customary to give around $1 for each drink you order.
- Smoking
If you’re a smoker, make sure you always smoke in the designated smoking areas only. Smoking outside of these areas is very rude and disrespectful to those around you. If you’re in a smoking area, say at a blackjack table, and there are others sitting next to you gambling, be sure to not blow your smoke towards them. Also, be sure to use an ashtray all the time.
- Respect Casino Staff
Just like everyone else in the world, you should make sure you respect all the casino employees. Never be aggressive or demanding towards them and always be polite. They are working very hard to serve and make sure you’re having a good time. The last thing they deserve is someone yelling or acting nasty towards them. If you’re unhappy about something, fine, but make sure you communicate it in a calm and professional manner. The same applies to fellow casino players. Always be polite and respectful towards them.