Yahoo Lifestyle 
Kmart shoppers disgusted by shocking baby product discovery: 'How could we put that on the shelf?'
An Aussie TikToker's worrying find in her local Kmart has sparked outrage.
An Aussie shopper recently stumbled upon a disturbing sight at a Kmart store in Victoria, sparking a heated debate across social media about hygiene standards and consumer expectations. The contentious issue? Visibly dirty baby products — prominently displayed on store shelves — raising widespread concern about their suitability for sale.
The incident gained viral attention when the shopper, dismayed by her discovery, captured the scene in a TikTok. In the footage, pink silicone sippy cups, baby bowls and bibs can be seen covered in visible dirt and grime.
RELATED:
Kmart shopper's 'genius' $17 hack for nursery wows Aussies: 'What a brilliant idea!'
Kmart shoppers go wild for the ultimate affordable Lego dupes: 'They look almost identical'
Kmart shopper's disgusting discovery in new appliance box: 'I have been scammed'
The shopper expressed her disbelief, exclaiming, "I'm sorry Kmart, but what??? How could we put that on the shelf?" She concluded her video with a bewildered, "Wow."
The footage quickly circulated online, prompting a flood of responses from fellow shoppers and former Kmart employees alike. Many were quick to express their shock and disapproval, arguing vehemently against the sale of the 'disgusting' and visibly soiled items.
One commenter voiced their concern bluntly, "This is being sold as a new item? Get a grip!" Another stated emphatically, "I don't buy visibly dirty items brand new."
A third chimed in, "These should be considered rejects and be sent back. Sooo unsanitary, especially knowing it's a baby cup."
Kmart responds to incident
Kmart has responded to Yahoo Lifestyle Australia regarding the concerning find in their aisles, stating that this does not meet the retailer's usual standards.
A spokesperson confirmed that maintaining high standards is a priority for the company across all its stores.
"The store has since been made aware and addressed the issue," the spokesperson said.
Mixed reactions
However, a counter-narrative emerged from others, including former Kmart workers, who explained that dirt and marks are unfortunately common occurrences during merchandise shipment.
One former employee commented, "I used to work at Kmart and when unboxing the merchandise it's dirty — sadly it happens — things get dirty during shipping, even the clothes arrive with marks on them."
Another Kmart worker agreed, "I can confirm it comes so dusty, my clothes are gross after working the back dock."
Others pointed out that consumers should actually expect to wash new items before use.
"That's why they have 'wash before use' on the labels," said one commenter.
A pragmatic shopper also noted, "You wouldn't even know the difference if someone just wiped it down, it's not gonna hurt you."
Debunking dirty discounts
Several commenters also speculated that the cups were on clearance due to their dirty condition. However, a quick check of Kmart's website reveals that the entire range is currently on clearance, indicating that these dirty items were not discounted any more than other products in the range, which are presumably clean.
Amidst the debate, arguments escalated as supporters of selling slightly dirty items pointed out the environmental impact of simply discarding usable goods.
"Would you rather they all go to landfill?" argued one shopper, while another added, "Don't be wasteful."
One more suggested, "You can wash dishes when they're dirty."
However, critics remained steadfast that hygiene and presentation matter, especially for baby products.
SHOP:
"That shouldn't be sellable in that condition."
Another echoed the prevailing sentiment, saying, "Everyone in the comments acting like they would buy a dirty item for full price. Ain't no way."
Want the latest celebrity news? Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.
