From A Messy Home, To Poor Personal Hygiene And Other 'Icks': Singles Reveal Their Top Dating Turn-Offs

Tuesday, 10 January 2023 17:04

By (C) Sky News: Faiza Saqib, news reporter

Singles have revealed their top dating turn-offs in a new poll.

These so-called "icks" have led to breakups and heartbreak for many.

An "ick" is an expression of dislike or disgust towards something and it has now become a term heavily used, thanks to Twitter and Instagram alike.

A new poll, surveying 2,000 people, found that 65% of the responders called it quits with their partner because of something that turned them off.

Here are some of the biggest 'icks':

A messy home

It was revealed that 21% said that a messy living situation is their number one ick.

Manners are everything

Another 42% said they hated bad manners the most and that it was one of the biggest turn-offs in a relationship.

Hygiene is key

The survey, which was carried out in the US by online dating service Seeking, also showed that 20% of daters said their biggest pet peeve was a date with dirty fingernails.

Body odour took the number one spot for the biggest hygiene ick, with 24% of people saying they would be turned off if their date smelled bad.

"People are very set on what they want, which is empowering," Seeking's dating expert Emma Hathorn said.

"The current trend at the moment is 'dating up', or finding someone who can elevate your lifestyle," Hathorn continued.

She added that when someone "dates up", their goal is likely to "not only be someone who can help their partner 'date up' - but find someone who can elevate their life at the same time".

The dating site found that 79% of people agreed that being a "picky dater" is a good thing and that many people feel that they deserve the best in a relationship.

20 things that give people the "ick"

Smelling bad
Pretending to be more knowledgeable about something than they actually are
Being overbearing and rude
Double texting (sending a secondary text if you've not responded after the first one)
Having bad teeth
Being rude to a waiter
Living in a mess
Having dirty fingernails
Chewing with their mouth open
Being too clingy
Talking too loud
Eating and talking at the same time
Being obsessed with their star signs
Having long fingernails
Putting on a baby voice
Wearing too much make-up
Breathing heavily
Oversharing on social media
Referring to themselves in third person
Having a bad tattoo

Sky News

More from Lifestyle

Five Alternative Christmas Dinners For Turkey Haters

Turkey may be the traditional centre-piece of Christmas dinners, but it’s not for everyone. Whether you’re looking for something new, accommodating dietary preferences, or simply not a fan of turkey, there are plenty of delicious alternatives. Here are five ideas to inspire a memorable Christmas feast:
Five Brilliant Food Games For All The Family On Christmas Day

Christmas Day is all about family, fun, and feasting. After the big meal, there’s no better way to keep the festive spirit alive than with some food-themed games that everyone can enjoy. From kids to grandparents, these entertaining activities add a playful twist to your holiday celebrations. Here are five brilliant food games to try this Christmas...
Five Most Unique Christmas Dinners Worldwide

Christmas is celebrated worldwide with a dazzling array of traditions, and nothing brings people together quite like a festive meal. From roasted turkeys to sweet treats, each country adds its unique twist to the holiday. Here are five of the most unique Christmas dinners that showcase the diversity of global traditions:
Five Best UK Christmas Attractions To Visit

The festive season is a magical time in the UK, where towns and cities transform into winter wonderlands filled with twinkling lights, festive markets, and enchanting attractions. Whether you're looking for family-friendly fun or a romantic Christmas escape, these five Christmas attractions offer unforgettable experiences:
Five Horror Christmas Films For Adults Only

The holiday season may be synonymous with cheer and goodwill, but for those who enjoy a darker twist to their Christmas festivities, horror films set during this time of year provide the perfect blend of chills and yuletide thrills. Here are five standout horror Christmas films made exclusively for an adult audience. These movies are filled with gore, suspense, and twisted humour—definitely not suitable for children: