9 Things You Should Never Do in Thrift Stores, According to Frequent Shoppers

Don't Abandon Your Cart

We get it. Sometimes an item grabs your attention from across the aisle—but try to keep your shopping cart or basket close by. 

“Be kind to your fellow shoppers and don’t leave your basket on the floor or your cart unattended could be pushed to the other side of the store," says PJ Gach, a thrifting expert and founder of The Grumpy Fashionista.

Also, she adds that some people (who haven't read these rules!) may shop your cart if left unattended. 

Never Take Items Out of Other Carts

On that note, never take items out of another shopper’s cart. Thrifting requires a high level of patience, a good eye, and is a time commitment. Shopping others’ carts completely disrespects the time and effort they’ve put in that day. 

Genevieve Dreizen, etiquette expert and co-founder of Fresh Starts Registry, does have a piece of advice if you spot something in another person’s cart that you love: "Just let them know," she says, "'Not to be weird, but I love that jacket in your cart—if you don't take it will you grab me?'"

Don't Leave Items Where They Don't Belong

This applies anytime you’re shopping anywhere, but there’s something about the organized chaos and low price tags at thrift stores that makes some people feel like they can sidestep this retail rule. 

"For the love of all things sequined, fold stuff back nicely if you dig through it," says NeShanta Davis, a personal stylist and shopping expert. "We want the thrift gods to bless us, not stress us."

By putting that unwanted book, pair of shoes, or slow cooker back in their original department, you’re helping keep the store neat and tidy, and it can help prevent items from getting damaged. 

Avoid Adding Everything to Your Cart "Just In Case"

Thrift shops are such exciting places because of the limited stock. But instead of hoarding items, resist the urge to pile your "maybes" in your shopping cart or basket.

Take a beat to consider whether this item is in good condition, if it would fit you, is part of your home’s aesthetic, or is otherwise worthy of buying. Just because it’s a great deal doesn’t mean you should take it home—or keep it from other shoppers.

Be Polite to Other Shoppers

Picture it: You and another thrifter reach for the same vintage leather jacket at the exact same moment. Cue the silent standoff. First, diffuse the situation with some kindness. A simple, "Oh wow, we both spotted a gem!" can instantly soften the tension.

From there, consider thrift store karma. Did the other person clearly have their hand on it first? Were they actively looking at it while you swooped in? 

If it’s truly a tie, a lighthearted offer—"Wanna flip a coin for it?"—can diffuse awkwardness and turn the moment into a fun story. If all else fails, walk away with grace. Another treasure is probably just a few hangers away. 

Don't Record Content Without Consideration

Your secondhand shopping treasures are definitely worth showing off. But consider your surroundings before creating social media content or taking videos at the thrift store.

"We are aware that we live in a social media era," says Davis. "However, be courteous. Not everyone wants to be a part of your content." If you are recording, avoid filming people’s faces and bodies, and do not become a hindrance or distraction to other shoppers.  

Don’t Strip Down

With an increasing number of thrift stores closing dressing rooms (a move often made to discourage theft), some people disrobe right there in the open. Don’t be that person.

You can, however, still try things on in creative ways. "When thrift shopping, wear leggings and a tee so you can easily try on clothing over what you’re wearing, and find a space in the store that doesn’t have a lot of foot traffic," Gach suggests.  

Never Be Rude to Staff

A polite and simple "hello" and "thank you" can make all the difference. "Many thrift stores are understaffed, and employees may be volunteers or are paid [low] wages," Gach reminds. "Please be respectful to them and be mindful of their workload."

Don't Ask Staff to "Check In the Back"

While some big box stores may have additional stock in store rooms, that's not the case with thrift stores. Items aren't often donated in multiples or in several different sizes, and storage space is almost always limited.

"Understand that what you see on the racks is exactly what they have," says Gach. "There isn’t a backroom with multiple sizes of items you see on the racks."