Maybe I’m doing it wrong...though most of my clients say I should help myself. If they do not say I can help myself I absolutely do not eat nonperishable food unless a client specifically states it is ok. I do eat produce that will obviously spoil if not eaten before the client gets back—but this only really happens for longer stays . I always leave a note stating what went bad and was tossed or eaten before it spoiled. I assume things like salt, pepper, condiments, sugar and maybe a splash of milk for coffee (I usually bring my own) are ok to use as long as I don’t use the last of it. The only reason to go into the freezer is if you need ice cubes, or are storing your own personal items. I assume it is ok that I use clients kitchen items to cook my meals. If I were to eat out all of my meals while house sitting the money I make house sitting wouldn’t be worth it. I like to bake so if I do bake anything like a pie or cookies (I’ve done both while house sitting) I always leave some for the client and bring my own ingredients. I never ever leave dirty dishes. The kitchen should look like it wasn’t touched when the client gets back and trash taken out. It should look like I was never there.