People consider it to be trashy, despite the fact that it’s actually helpful, and it tidies up the table if the waiter is busy. I think it’s considered poor etiquette because rich snobs would never perform the tasks of the paid servants. Those tasks are beneath them. So if you want to be seen as fancy, you need to act as if they’re beneath you as well.

There is often very limited table space and stacking the dishes can be more about making room than server convenience.

That said, obviously don’t be dumb about it. Stack dishes properly and maybe stick the utensils in a cup so they aren’t at risk of falling during transport.

I’ve worked as a bar staff member/bartender so kinda similar role and I always found it super respectful, considerate and convenient when people tidied themselves up esp as our job is constantly on the go and so often, esp in busy hours, it’s practical impossible to be fully tidy in those hours and so it really does make our job so much easier when customers do that esp as in my job, I often have to deal with seriously difficult customers and stuff, which can make things super time consuming and straight up annoying esp as other customers are waiting as well to be served.

Not in the service industry, someone I know who does has once said they don’t like people returning their coffee mugs because it makes it look like they aren’t doing their jobs

Think that might just be a him thing though

The thought is nice but sometimes guests did things that created inconveniences. I’d prefer it if customers let us take care of it ourselves.

Please don’t put your straw wrapper or paper napkins in your drink cup. I can pour the ice/liquid into the drain but have to fish out the soggy paper bits.