14 Rude Things Pennsylvanians Do at Costco Sample Stations

Every Costco regular knows the unspoken magic of the sample station. It’s not just about trying new things—it’s about the fun, the surprise, and the tiny bite that sometimes convinces you to buy a five-pound box of meatballs.

But for every polite sampler, there’s someone who takes things a step too far.

Whether it’s evoking a subtle side-eye from the sample rep or a full-on cart block in the aisle, these are the rude behaviors some Pennsylvanians display that turn the perk of Costco sample stations into a problem.

Hovering at the Sample Station

Everyone loves free food, but that doesn’t mean you’re entitled to treat Costco’s sample station like your personal kitchen counter.

Some customers stand way too close, crowding the table as if it’s their job to guard the cheese cubes. It makes it nearly impossible for others to step in and grab a taste.

Worse, they’ll sometimes start chatting with the employee, blocking traffic for several minutes while everyone else awkwardly waits their turn.

Sample stations are meant to be quick-stop zones, not social lounges.

Complaining There’s No Sample Fork

Some Costco samples don’t come with utensils. That’s just how it is. But you’d think the lack of a tiny fork was the end of the world the way some folks react.

Eye rolls. Huffs. The occasional “How am I supposed to eat this?” while holding a paper cup full of chili. (Hint: just sip it.)

Costco’s samples aren’t five-course meals—they’re quick tastes.

Flexibility goes a long way when you’re eating free food on someone else’s dime.

Ignoring the Line and Cutting In

There’s usually an unspoken respectful rhythm to Costco’s sample process. People notice who arrived first and wait their turn without needing ropes or number tickets.

But then someone casually strolls up and reaches in to grab a sample like it’s their right, totally ignoring the small, informal line already forming.

No eye contact. No “Excuse me.” Just straight to the tray.

This kind of line-cutting throws everything off. It’s uncomfortable for customers, and it puts the employees in an uncomfortable position if they try to say something.

Letting Kids Grab with Their Bare Hands

Kids are curious—and sample tables are very tempting. But letting them reach in with unwashed hands is a fast track to disaster.

The employees are usually too polite to say anything. But it’s obvious when a tray gets abandoned after a messy toddler attack.

It’s not cute. It’s not quirky. It’s downright inconsiderate.

Parents who keep an eye on their kids are doing everyone a favor, especially the next shopper in the sample line.

Grabbing More Than One

When the sign clearly says “one per customer,” that’s the rule—not a suggestion.

Still, Costco shoppers scoop up two or three samples without blinking, often thinking no one’s watching.

Spoiler alert: the employees are definitely watching.

It might not seem like a big deal, but those extra bites add up when hundreds of people are shopping. It’s unfair to others and puts stress on the supply.

If every Costco customer took three when the sign says one, the tray would be empty before the next batch even finishes cooking.

Leaving Trash on the Sample Table

Costco makes it easy—there’s a trash can behind almost every sample cart. And yet inevitably, wrappers, used toothpicks, and empty paper cups end up right on the table.

It’s one of those little things that make a big mess fast. One person leaves a napkin, and suddenly others feel like they can too.

This makes more work for the sample staff, who now have to clear garbage just to serve food. Not exactly sanitary—or considerate.

Taking three steps to the trash can is the polite and hygienic move.

Touching Multiple Samples Before Picking One

It’s hard to understand why this even happens, but some shoppers will touch two or three samples before finally choosing one. That’s not tasting—it’s contaminating.

No one wants to eat something a stranger’s fingers have already touched.

Even worse, sometimes people let their kids do it, thinking it’s cute or harmless. It’s not.

Just pick the sample you want, and keep your hands to yourself for everyone’s sake. If your goal is to snag the largest sample, measure the samples up with your eyes, not your hands.

Sneaking Back Over and Over Again

There’s a difference between liking something and stalking it. Going back for a second taste?

Depending on who you ask, that can be socially acceptable—unless there’s a sign that says “one per customer,” of course.

Coming back five times in five minutes?

That’s just plain rude.

Most employees notice, even if they don’t say anything. So do other customers, especially if the tray starts to run low.

If you’re that into the mango habanero meatballs, just buy the box and heat them up at home. Problem solved—and no side-eye from strangers.

Samples are there to introduce products, not replace your lunch.

Blocking the Aisle With Your Cart

Sample stations are usually placed at intersections or side aisles, which are already high-traffic zones. Parking your cart sideways right next to the tray?

That’s a classic move that causes chaos.

People trying to pass can’t squeeze through, and those waiting for a sample get boxed in behind your unattended cart.

This happens all too often and can be fixed with one simple habit: Pull your cart to the side before grabbing a sample.

Making a Scene When a Sample Runs Out

Sometimes the Costco sample tray goes empty. It happens. The food has to cook, and there’s usually more on the way.

Still, some customers act like it’s a personal offense, sighing loudly or asking “How much longer?” like they’re at a fancy restaurant waiting on a meal.

Others get even pushier, sticking around for several minutes even though the staff clearly said it’ll be a bit.

It’s not the staff’s fault. Give them space, move on, and swing back later if you’re that set on trying the sample.

Asking for a Sample “To Go”

It sounds made up, but it happens: someone asks if they can take one for later, or even requests a lid.

Sometimes they want to bring it to a spouse or kid who’s “somewhere in the store.” Other times, they’re stocking up like it’s a hotel breakfast buffet.

The answer is usually no. But the fact that people ask in the first place is the real problem.

Samples are meant for right now, not your cooler bag.

Making Loud Comments About the Product

Not every sample’s a hit. That’s totally fair. But some customers can’t help but loudly announce that something tastes terrible, right in front of the employee serving it.

This kind of public critique is uncomfortable for everyone. The employee didn’t create the product. They’re just handing it out.

If you don’t like it, toss it quietly and move on.

No need to roast the bacon cauliflower bites like you’re hosting a food show.

Taking Samples Before They’re Ready

We know Costco’s sample trays look tempting. But if the employee says “not ready yet,” that means hands off.

Still, some customers don’t wait. They reach in while the worker is still placing the bites or setting things up.

It’s not just rude—it can be unsafe, especially if the food is hot or not fully prepped.

Waiting an extra minute isn’t going to ruin your day. Take a deep breath.

Making Jokes at the Employee’s Expense

A lot of sample workers hear the same corny jokes day after day: “Can I take the whole tray?” or “You got any wine with this?”

But sometimes, the jokes cross a line. People tease them about their job, the uniform, or how “sad” it must be to hand out food all day.