How to Go to the Grocery Store
Original image from Anna Shvets on Pexels.
1. Wear a mask.
Virtually all essential businesses now require that you wear a mask before entering. You can use a disposable one, or make your own, but you’ll be turned away without one. Remember that a re-usable mask should be washed after it’s worn.
2. Wear gloves.
Re-usable gloves are fine, just be sure to wash them after use.
3. Carry a paper shopping list.
Remember that COVID-19 can be transferred from surface to surface, including to (or from) your phone. Rather than touch items and then constantly check your electronic shopping list, write everything down beforehand and keep your phone stashed until you need to check out (see below). If you’re familiar with the store’s layout, group items on your list by shelf location, which will reduce time spent on the premises.
4. Understand the store's bag policy.
Many grocery chains no longer allow you to bring your own bags or portable grocery carts into the store: they must be checked at the door, and your items will be bagged by the cashier or left loose for you to bag in a designated area.
5. Observe cart hygiene protocol.
Most stores will wipe down carts after each use. Watch store personnel as they clean carts, and be sure to select one that’s been disinfected. You can wipe down the cart handle with a sanitizing wipe for extra protection, though this is less important if you’re wearing gloves.
6. Be quick.
Maintain social distance, and only touch items you intend to buy.
7. Segment cart.
To speed bagging and reduce breakage, place crushable/breakable/easily-bruised items (eggs, berries, chips, bananas) in the upper section of the cart, with heavier items in the main basket.
8. Follow distancing rules.
Most larger supermarkets will have distancing and safety protocols in place at the cashier: follow them closely. Use contactless technology to pay whenever possible, such as a mobile phone or contactless credit card. Take a glove off if necessary at this time. You can still use face-recognition technology, you’ll just need to add a scan of your face wearing a mask to your phone. Otherwise, pay with your passcode.
9. Wash your hands when you get home.
Take gloves off, then wash hands. Put groceries away, rinsing fruit as necessary. While there’s low likelihood of COVID-19 exposure via food or packaging, wash hands again for added safety. Gloves and mask should be washed after shopping.
Pro Tip
Some larger chains now offer the ability to order online and then have groceries placed into your car on arrival. If available, take advantage of this service.