Tips for Staying Safe at the Grocery Store

by Covid-19 Health Resource Center | 4.15.20

At this point in the COVID-19 pandemic, experts agree that it's safer to have groceries delivered via no-contact delivery if possible.

However, there may be a variety of reasons that compel you to continue shopping for groceries in person. If you must shop in-store, here are some tips to stay safe while pushing your cart through the aisles:

Maintain social distancing

• Maintain social distancing at all times. That means at least six feet of space between you and others.
• Don't crowd against others in aisles and in the check-out line.

Cover your face

• The CDC now recommends that all Americans wear cloth face masks when out in public, including at the grocery store.
• No face mask? No problem. We'll teach you how to fashion a DIY mask here, using a variety of materials.
• Leave N95 respirator masks or surgical masks to healthcare workers, who are still facing a shortage of protective personal equipment (PPE).

Avoid touching your face

• Try to avoid touching your face—your eyes, nose, and mouth can be points of entry for the novel coronavirus.

Wash your hands

• Wash your hands with soap and water before and after going out.
• Use hand sanitizer when out.
• If you use gloves, use disposable ones and throw them out before getting in your car or as soon as you get home.

Use wipes

• Wipe your grocery cart or basket down with sanitizing wipes.
• Use wipes that are on the EPA's list of disinfectants for use against SARS-CoV-2.

Minimize contact with the cashier

• If possible, try to avoid exchanging money or credit cards with the cashier.
• Use contactless payment or a credit card reader when possible.

Dispose of or clean bags and surfaces

• If you use paper or plastic bags that were handled by another person (e.g., a bagger at the store), discard those bags upon returning home and wash your hands.
• If you're using reusable cloth bags, wash them upon returning home.
• Wipe countertops down after putting groceries away.

Avoid going to the grocery store if you're a member of a vulnerable population

• Certain vulnerable populations - people over 65 and those with certain medical conditions - are at greater risk of serious complications from COVID-19.
• If you're a member of a vulnerable population, you should avoid going to the grocery store if possible.

Share these tips to help others stay safe while going to the grocery store.

—Lorelei Yang

(Photo Credit: iStockphoto.com / kzenon)