Minecraft: 10 things you should never do

With more than 15 years of history, it’s no surprise that plenty of “never do this” rules have emerged in Minecraft. Things you simply shouldn’t do—either because they’re dangerous or because the game mechanics work differently than you might expect. A list like this is obviously most helpful for new players, but even veterans and returning players may learn a thing or two! In the end, of course, play however you like. It never hurts, though, to keep a few of these rules in mind.

1. Never dig straight down or straight up in Minecraft

The oldest and most important rule in Minecraft still applies today. It can be tempting to dig straight into a mountain or sink a mineshaft directly down. But it’s not always wise to take the direct route. One wrong block and you can die to fall damage, drop straight into lava, or get overwhelmed by mobs.

Instead, build a staircase—either straight down or as a spiral staircase. The latter works especially well if you dig a 2x2 tunnel downward, stepping down one block at a time. Alternatively, you can dig a 1x2 tunnel and use ladders to catch yourself.

2. Don’t attack villagers — protect your trades

Villagers are the only peaceful creatures you can directly interact with in your world, so you should never scare them by attacking. Not only is it morally questionable, villagers will gossip among themselves and give you worse prices for your trades because of your misdeeds. Your reputation in the village drops the worse you treat them, and prices will rise accordingly.

3. Never travel without a compass, map, and coordinates in Minecraft

Minecraft worlds are huge, and once you set off on an adventure it can be hard to find your way back to your base. You might travel thousands of blocks and then need to return home. Your natural sense of direction rarely suffices.

Use tools like the coordinates in the F3 menu, a compass, and maps to navigate more reliably. Signposts can also help. If you want to learn more about navigation, we have a full article: (Effective Navigation in Minecraft: Using Compass and Map) .

4. Beds explode in the Nether and the End — don’t sleep there

This one often catches new players with an explosive surprise. In the Overworld, beds are great for skipping the night and setting your spawn point. That doesn’t work in the Nether or the End—there, beds explode the moment you try to lie down. In the Nether, use Respawn Anchors instead to set your spawn. In the End, there’s no way to set your spawn yet. Some players do use beds as a weapon to defeat the Ender Dragon.

5. Safeguard important tools and remap the Q key

A very specific tip that can save your life in tight spots. By default, you can press Q to drop items from your hotbar onto the ground—useful for sharing with other players or discarding junk. But it can backfire, especially during fights with creepers.

In combat, you might accidentally hit Q and throw your sword. If a creeper explodes nearby, there’s a chance it will blow up the item. That’s especially painful if you lose a well‑enchanted sword or pickaxe. Tip: Remap Q to a different key.

6. Always head out with enough food

This should be obvious, but unless you’re on Peaceful you should always carry plenty of food. That’s especially true for long journeys or caving. Food doesn’t just fill your hunger, it also heals you after tough fights. Top choices include cooked meats, stews, and golden carrots.

7. Better enchantments with books and an anvil, not just the enchanting table

The enchanting system can be confusing for both newcomers and long‑time players. There are many approaches to assembling the perfect tool. Don’t rely solely on the enchanting table—use other methods too.

Enchanted books are often better because they let you control exactly which enchantments your tools will have. Later, you can apply them on an anvil. Books can hold multiple enchantments that you can mix and match as needed.

8. Always use a shield in combat

If you’re returning after many years, you’ll notice changes to the combat system. A key element is the shield, worn in your off‑hand. These days it’s crucial for blocking damage, catching arrows, and even surviving creeper explosions.

9. Never summon the Wither near your base

The Wither is one of the strongest bosses you can fight in Minecraft. Fortunately, you can choose when, where, and how to face it. We recommend spawning it in a secured cave far from your base. As soon as it spawns, it explodes.

The fight itself is also very destructive if you do it the normal way. Its projectiles explode and will scar the terrain around you. Play it safe. Learn more in our dedicated guide: (Defeat the Minecraft Wither – How to Conquer the Strongest Boss!) .

10. Don’t underestimate Silk Touch — harvest important blocks correctly

Finally, a look at Silk Touch, the enchantment that lets you harvest blocks themselves. For some items it’s even required—otherwise you get nothing back. Glass, glass panes, ice, and campfires are great examples you would destroy without Silk Touch. You can also harvest bookshelves intact so you don’t lose the wood. Most importantly, it’s essential for Ender chests. Without Silk Touch, you get only obsidian back and lose the Eye of Ender.

Conclusion: Know the most important Minecraft rules

Minecraft is a game of endless possibilities, but there are still plenty of things to keep in mind. Many rules are obvious, while others might be new to you. Whether you’re new or returning, we hope some of these tips saved you from an untimely death. There’s always more to learn in Minecraft, and mistakes are a great way to avoid future mishaps.

Rent one of our Minecraft servers now and jump in with these tips to make your start as smooth as possible. You can, of course, play with friends too—and share some of these tips with them.