Lisa O
Whether you love grocery shopping or see it as a necessary evil, every trip usually involves weaving through crowds of other shoppers, some of whom seem to forget their manners. While there isn’t a strict rulebook for how to shop, common courtesy is important. Here are ten things you should never do in the grocery store!
Blocking the Aisle
Some store aisles are spacious, but others are cramped due to pillars or sale displays. It doesn’t help when someone leaves their cart in the snack aisle to browse the condiments. Be considerate of other shoppers—move your cart to a roomy spot if you need to step away. Also, don’t leave your purse or wallet in the cart—thieves look for this kind of opportunity.
Last-Minute Shopping
If the store closes at 12 p.m., don’t waltz in at 11:59 p.m., thinking you can spend an hour doing your big family’s shopping. Employees want to head home, too, and your last-minute trip could force them to stick around longer without getting paid. Be kind and wrap up your shopping earlier so everyone can get out of there on time.
Bringing Pets into the Store
Please don’t bring your pet into the store unless it’s a service animal. Grocery carts are for your items—not for furry friends. Pets can spread germs and create messes that might contaminate the food. Many stores have big signs saying “No Dogs Allowed,” and state and federal laws often back this up. So leave your pet at home with their favorite toy and keep things clean and safe for everyone.
Not Being Ready to Pay
It’s a classic grocery store move—someone waits until every item is scanned, then slowly pulls out their checkbook and fills it out like they’re writing a fancy wedding invitation. Even though fewer stores take checks these days, the same rule applies. Don’t make the person behind you groan and fume by waiting until your total is given before you start digging through your purse or wallet for cash or a credit card.
Overdoing the Perfume
Having a signature scent is a nice way to express yourself, but going overboard with your favorite perfume can cause problems. Some shoppers might be allergic, and others might find it way too strong. Instead of soaking yourself in it—just use a dab or two. That way, you’ll smell great without bothering anyone else in the store.
Changing Your Mind on Purchases
We’ve all grabbed something off the shelf and then changed our minds. But don’t just leave it anywhere—especially if it’s a refrigerated or frozen item. No one wants melting ice cream in the cereal aisle! If you can, put it back where you found it. If not, hand it to the cashier or an employee and let them know you changed your mind.
Snacking on Produce
Don’t treat the produce section like a free buffet. Picking grapes or opening containers of strawberries before buying them is not cool. The same goes for chips or cookies. It’s rude, messy, and sometimes even unsanitary. If you’re tempted to snack while shopping, remember to resist unless the store is offering free samples. Better yet, have a snack before you shop to avoid those hungry cravings.
Leaving Trash Behind
What happened to old slogans like “Keep America Beautiful” and “Nature’s Beauty, Our Duty”? Maybe it’s time to bring them back. Don’t leave used tissues or crumpled shopping lists lying around the store or parking lot, or dump them in your cart. Most stores have a trash can out front or near the registers—use it to toss your trash.
Chatting on Speakerphone
There’s a time and place for cellphone chats, especially when it comes to speakerphones. Nobody wants to hear your personal conversations while they’re trying to shop. Save catching up with friends or talking about personal stuff for another time. Keep those calls private so you’re not blasting your business for everyone in the store to overhear.
Ignoring Basic Manners
Sometimes, it feels impossible to get down the cereal aisle or grab a bottle of hoisin sauce without bumping into someone. No matter what—be sure to say “excuse me” and “thank you” as you pass by. It’s simple, but those few words show good manners and might even get you a smile or a friendly response in return.