Grocery shopping is something everyone has to do, and the experience is often shared with many others at the same time. To make it more enjoyable for all, here are 13 behaviors to avoid while you are at the grocery store. Following these guidelines will help ensure that everyone can have a smoother, more pleasant experience.
1. Blocking the Aisles with Your Cart
One of the most universally irritating things you can do at the grocery store is blocking the aisle with your cart. It may seem like a minor inconvenience, but for other shoppers trying to navigate the store, it’s a major headache. Be mindful of where you leave your cart, especially in narrow aisles, and try to stick to one side. If you need to stop and check your list or grab an item, pull over and make space for others to pass.
2. Leaving Your Cart in the Parking Lot
When you leave your cart in the parking lot instead of returning it to the cart return station, you’re not just being lazy—you’re creating an obstacle for others. It’s especially frustrating for someone trying to park, only to find their spot blocked by a rogue cart. Worse, an unattended cart can roll into someone’s car, causing damage. Always take the few extra seconds to return your cart.
3. Sampling Food That Isn’t Offered as a Sample
It’s tempting to pop a grape or try a few nuts while grocery shopping, but if the store hasn’t specifically set up a sample, it’s best to resist the urge. Around 80 percent of shoppers find this behavior rude. Sampling items before purchasing them is a big no-no and can even be seen as theft. Always wait for permission or free samples before tasting anything.
4. Cutting in Line
Perhaps the quickest way to aggravate other shoppers is to cut in line. It doesn’t matter if it’s at the deli, bakery, or checkout—99 percent of shoppers agree that line-cutting is a major breach of etiquette. Everyone is waiting their turn, so be patient and avoid jumping the queue, no matter how small your purchase is. Remember, your time is no more valuable than anyone else’s.
5. Leaving Perishables in Random Spots
If you decide you no longer want a perishable item like milk or yogurt, don’t leave it on a random shelf. Not only is this rude, but it can also cause the product to spoil, leading to unnecessary waste. With 97 percent of people finding this behavior rude, the best practice is to return perishables to their appropriate refrigerated or frozen section.
6. Helping Yourself to Your Haul Before Paying
It’s understandable to feel hungry while shopping, but consuming items before you’ve paid for them is generally frowned upon. Even though you may plan on buying them, other shoppers don’t know your intentions. Nearly 78 percent of people disapprove of this behavior. Wait until after you’ve checked out to start enjoying your food haul.
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7. Blocking the Checkout Lane with Your Cart
While you might think it’s acceptable to leave your cart in the checkout line while you go grab something you forgot, 80 percent of shoppers would disagree. This behavior slows down the line and inconveniences others. Instead, finish all your shopping before you line up. If you absolutely need to grab something last minute, try to move quickly or skip the line altogether and shop for it another time.
8. Getting Too Close to Other Shoppers in Line
Personal space is sacred, especially in the checkout line. No one likes feeling crowded while they’re waiting to check out. A staggering 94 percent of people are uncomfortable with others invading their space. Keep a respectful distance from the shopper ahead of you, and avoid giving the impression that you’re trying to rush them through the line.
9. Letting Your Kids Misbehave
We’ve all had moments where our kids act up, but a grocery store isn’t the place to let them run wild. Around 92 percent of shoppers don’t want to deal with misbehaving children while they’re shopping. While it’s not always easy to control young ones, keeping them occupied or engaged can go a long way toward making the experience pleasant for everyone.
10. Putting Nonperishable Items Back in the Wrong Spot
While nonperishable items like canned goods or boxed cereal don’t spoil if left out, 79 percent of shoppers still find it rude when these items are abandoned in the wrong sections. Not only does this create extra work for store employees, but it also makes the store look messy. If you no longer want an item, simply return it to its correct place.
11. Gaming the Express Lane
The express lane is meant for shoppers with a few items, usually 10 or fewer. If you’ve got more, trying to sneak through is bad form. According to 89 percent of shoppers, this is annoying and unfair to those who follow the rules. Be respectful and use the express lane only when you have the appropriate number of items.
12. Leaving the Checkout Line While Your Groceries Are Being Scanned
Stepping away from the checkout line while your items are being scanned might seem like a minor offense, but it’s enough to annoy 68 percent of shoppers. This behavior slows down the process for everyone and leaves the cashier waiting. If you forgot an item, it’s better to complete your transaction and come back for it later.
13. Being Rude or Discourteous to Others
Ultimately, grocery shopping should be a courteous experience for everyone involved. Around 91 percent of shoppers are frustrated by rude behavior. Whether it’s ignoring someone’s request to move your cart or being impatient with the cashier, a little kindness goes a long way. Practice common courtesy, and you’ll help make the experience better for everyone.
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