Mastering Grocery Store Etiquette: 10 Tips for a Smooth Shopping Experience

As a former grocery store employee and professional viewer of My Grocery Games on The Food Network, let's just say that I know a thing or two about the grocery biz.

You probably visit the grocery store a minimum of one time per week. My husband and I end up going several times every week. I wish that I could hand out a flyer to every customer with some tips on how to be an awesome shopper. And by that, I mean how to not break the unspoken rules of the grocery store.

This is My Space - This is Your Space

In the famous words of Patrick Swayse in 'Dirty Dancing', respect personal space: Be mindful of personal space and maintain a respectful distance from other shoppers. Avoid reaching over or crowding someone else while they are browsing the shelves.

Respect the Produce

I am guilty of touching every fruit or veggie before I buy it. Just knowing that I'm not the only one that does it is a reminder to wash everything before you eat it.

Return Items to Their Proper Places

If you change your mind about purchasing a product, or if you accidentally take an item from its original location, make an effort to return it to its proper shelf or designated area. This helps store staff and other customers find products easily. There is nothing worse than finding melted ice cream on the macaroni shelf.

 Shopping Cart Rules

As you navigate through the store, avoid blocking aisles.  It seems like an obvious tip but make sure your kids are secure in the cart seat. They shouldn't hang on the back or lay on the bottom of the cart. Yes, I have seen kids on the bottom of the cart. That is just dangerous.

Spill Something - Tell Someone

Accidents happen, that is a given. But, if you drop a glass jar or anything else that makes a dangerous mess, tell one of the grocery members.

Don't Scream at Your Kids - Use Your Inside Voice

Free Samples

Don't sample products unless allowed: Unless there are specific sampling areas or displays, refrain from opening or consuming products before purchasing them.

Check Out

This is another personal space courtesy to think about. Some stores have you wait in a particular spot before you move to the next available line. As you've probably noticed, many stores are adding more and more self-checkouts. I try to bag as I go, but it's difficult to keep things moving when you are the checker.

Cart Corral

It's just bad karma to leave your cart in the parking lot. Take the time to bring it back in the store, or return it in the cart corral.

Remember, practicing good grocery store etiquette helps create a positive shopping experience for everyone involved

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