21 Precautions Floridians Should Take When Shopping at Marshalls

For Floridians who love a good bargain, Marshalls is basically paradise with fluorescent lighting.

It’s packed with designer brands, markdown mania, and just enough randomness to make every visit feel like a scavenger hunt.

But for all its charm, it can also be a headache if you’re not careful. The aisles get crowded, the carts get scarce, and the deals aren’t always as dreamy as they look.

That’s why smart shoppers know it pays to be prepared. Here are some of the biggest precautions to keep in mind before stepping into Marshalls.

Don’t Ignore the Home Goods Labels

Throw blankets, towels, rugs—these are some of Marshalls’ best steals.

But not all textiles are created equal.

Some items may be marked down due to irregular stitching or odd dye jobs. Others might shrink or unravel after one wash. That plush towel might feel great now, but read the label to make sure it’s not dry-clean only.

Check the fabric content. See if it’s machine-washable. And if it feels too good to be true, it might be.

Don’t Get Stuck at the Checkout Traps

The checkout line at Marshalls is like a gauntlet of temptation. Travel mugs. Dog treats. Notebooks. Socks.

So. Many. Socks.

It’s easy to keep tossing in “just one more thing.” But by the time you reach the register, you’ve doubled your total.

Stay focused. Don’t let those impulse bins suck you in. Unless, of course, you actually need six mini jars of jam and a stress ball shaped like a flamingo.

Don’t Bring Big Bags or Backpacks

Security at Marshalls can be strict about oversized bags, especially in areas where shoplifting is common. They might give you a side-eye or even ask you to leave it up front.

It’s not personal. It’s policy.

If you can, leave bulky bags in the car or bring a small purse.

It’ll make your shopping trip smoother and keep you off the radar of suspicious glances from staff.

Keep an Eye on Your Bag

Speaking of bags, don’t assume yours is safe just because it’s zipped and tucked into your cart.

Marshalls gets crowded, especially near the checkout area and fitting rooms. Thieves know this. A moment of distraction can lead to a stolen wallet or phone.

Always keep your purse in sight, and loop the strap through the child seat if you don’t want to keep it on your person.

And for the love of Marshalls, don’t ever leave your purse open.

Be Wary of Beauty Products

It’s tempting to grab a name-brand serum or shampoo for half the regular price. But the beauty section at Marshalls requires caution.

Items can be opened, tampered with, or expired (let’s face it—this can happen at any store). Sometimes you’ll see half-used lotion bottles or a palette that’s seen more fingers than a library book.

Always inspect the product. Make sure the seal is intact. Check the expiration date.

When in doubt, skip it. Your skin will thank you.

Don’t Assume It’ll Be There Tomorrow

Found a cozy sherpa jacket or a perfect Rae Dunn mug at Marshalls?

If you like it, buy it. Now.

Marshalls inventory changes constantly. Items don’t get restocked, and you usually can’t call ahead to reserve things. If you leave it behind thinking you’ll “sleep on it,” someone else will probably snatch it up before your alarm even goes off.

Marshalls isn’t a place for indecision.

If you’re on the fence, toss it in your cart and decide whether you want the item before checking out.

Don’t Trust Cart Availability

One of the first things shoppers notice at Marshalls—besides the smell of coconut-scented lotion and faux leather—are the shopping carts.

Or more accurately, the lack of them.

Marshalls doesn’t have an endless supply of carts, and the ones they do have are often rickety or hiding behind a checkout lane.

Our advice? If you see a cart in the parking lot, grab it like it’s gold.

Going into Marshalls without a cart can be risky. You think you’ll only grab one item, but then a clearance purse whispers your name. Suddenly, you’re juggling a dog toy, three tops, and a Dutch oven.

Avoid the Store Right at Opening

It might seem like the best time to shop at Marshalls is when the doors first open, but that’s not always the case.

Early mornings can be chaotic.

Employees are often still rolling out carts of new merchandise, which can temporarily block off entire aisles. You may even see shoppers waiting by the door before opening like they’re camping out for a Black Friday sale.

Instead, try visiting Marshalls in the late morning or early afternoon on a weekday.

The store’s a bit calmer, the shelves are usually stocked, and you’ll avoid the sometimes aggressive energy of the early-bird crowd.

Watch Out for Tripping Hazards

Marshalls stores are known for having narrow aisles for carts, overflowing end caps, and merchandise that seems to migrate on its own.

Shoes aren’t always where they should be. Bags can fall. Hangers can stick out and grab your ankle like a tiny plastic trap.

If you’re not paying attention, especially, say, while flipping through clothing racks when checking your phone, it’s easy to trip.

Keep your eyes ahead and your stride careful to avoid embarrassing or hurting yourself in public.

Don’t Expect Every Tag to Be Accurate

Just because a sticker says something is $14.99 doesn’t mean that’s what it’ll ring up as.

Sometimes Marshalls’ staff forgets to remove previous markdown tags or mislabels an item. If you’re unsure about a price, snap a photo of the tag just in case you need backup at checkout.

And always double-check your receipt. A $4.99 mug accidentally ringing up as $24.99 happens more often than you think.

Catching it early can save you a return trip—and a chunk of change.

Don’t Forget to Inspect for Damage

That cute serving bowl might look perfect from afar, but give it a closer look. You might find a hairline crack or a chipped corner hiding in plain sight.

Marshalls merchandise sometimes includes manufacturer seconds or gently handled items. It’s not unusual to find small flaws, especially on items like kitchenware, lamps, and decorative pieces.

Before heading to the register, inspect every inch. Run your finger along the edges. Check for stains, tears, or missing parts.

A little attention now can save you from disappointment later.

Stick to a Budget—Seriously

The thrill of the find is strong at Marshalls. So strong, in fact, that people often leave with twice as much as they intended to buy.

People who just popped in for a new beach towel can somehow walk out with sandals, coffee beans, and a Buddha statue.

The trickiest part? It adds up fast—especially when everything “seems cheap.”

Make a list before you set foot in Marshalls. Set a spending cap. And remind yourself: just because it’s a good deal doesn’t mean it’s a good purchase.

Use the Fitting Rooms Early

The fitting rooms at Marshalls can be a gamble. They fill up fast, especially on weekends. If you wait until you’ve browsed the whole store, you might find a long line waiting for you.

Try to hit the fitting room early in your trip.

That way, you can try on potential buys before committing—and avoid that 20-minute line when your arms are already tired.

And always count your items, because the employees will too. If you bring in too many, you might get asked to choose a few and come back later.

Don’t Skip the Shoe Sizes

Marshalls’ shoe aisles can be disorganized chaos. You might find size 9s in the 7 section or two left shoes where a pair should be.

Check every box, and double-check both shoes inside it.

Try the shoes on before falling in love. And don’t be afraid to search for shoes sitting in a size section that isn’t yours—sometimes returns get shelved in the wrong spot.

Shoes are one of the best steals at Marshalls, but only if you’re willing to do the detective work.

Read the Return Policy Carefully

Marshalls has a return window—usually 30 days with a receipt—but it varies by location. Some items, like red-tag clearance or final sale beauty products, may be nonreturnable.

Don’t assume you can just bring things back whenever you want. Ask the cashier if you’re unsure, and hang onto that receipt like it’s a winning scratch-off ticket.

Returning without a receipt?

You’ll likely get store credit, and only if the item’s still in the system.

Be Polite to the Staff

Retail work is no vacation, and Marshalls employees often juggle multiple tasks at once—from restocking to ringing up customers to refolding every T-shirt you just flipped through.

A little kindness goes a long way.

Say hi. Be patient. Don’t blame them for the long line or that broken cart. Oh, and they didn’t choose the playlist either.

Treating workers with respect makes Marshalls’ better for everyone—and your soul.

Don’t Bring Your Whole Crew

Bringing your entire family or friend group to Marshalls might seem like a fun outing. But depending on the situation, it can slow everyone down.

The aisles are tight. The racks are packed. Add a few strollers, wandering partners, or loud group chats, and the store turns into a maze of chaos.

If you can, go solo or with a couple of fellow shoppers.

It’s easier to focus, move around, and make decisions without a peanut gallery.

Don’t Rely on the Website

Marshalls has a website, but it’s not as stocked as the store. And what you see online probably won’t match what’s in your local aisle.

Looking for something specific?

Call ahead—but don’t expect them to hold it. Marshalls stores aren’t set up like boutiques with inventory tracking. They usually work on a first-come, first-served basis.

Shop in person when possible. That’s where the real deals live.

Check Electronics Twice

Headphones, phone chargers, ring lights—Marshalls sells them all. But that doesn’t mean they all work perfectly.

Always open an electronics box if it’s not sealed. Check the brand. Make sure it isn’t missing a cable or battery.

A $10 Bluetooth speaker that doesn’t connect isn’t much of a bargain.

If you can’t test it, at least keep your receipt handy in case you need to return it.

Be Cautious With Pet Products

Marshalls has a surprisingly large pet section, but the quality of products can vary depending on the brand.

Some dog toys may shed, tear, or break apart easily. Treats have expiration dates just like human food. And those adorable beds?

They’re sometimes more stylish than sturdy.

If your pet’s a chewer or has a sensitive stomach, inspect every product closely. It’s not worth a vet bill over a $6 bag of mystery snacks.

Don’t Shop Hangry

This one sounds silly, but it matters. Shopping at Marshalls while hungry is a recipe for bad choices.