How I mindfully shop at TK Maxx for ethical essentials

TK Maxx is not necessarily an ethical choice to shop at. At the time of writing, on the Good On You App, they score as not good enough across the board and you might find this fact alone is enough to prevent you stepping foot in TK Maxx.

However, TK Maxx can be a place to buy 'deadstock' or products with a short date and TK Maxx expands accessibility of ethical brands that are sometimes out of financial reach. I would always recommend purchasing products direct when you can. However, I do sometimes shop in TK Maxx, mostly I shop beauty products that would otherwise be out of financial reach but this can also be clothing.

With this is mind, here are somethings that I do to shop TK Maxx wisely and as ethically as possible. These tips are not just great for this particular shop but might help in general make more mindful purchases.

Know what I need, it's easy to get caught into the high of a bargain. But really focus on what you need, this is not just good practice in general to reduce overconsumption, it's particularly important when TK Maxx products may have a shorter date.

Take my time and don’t make rushed purchases. Again a good one to avoid that adrenaline rush of a bargain, but take time to do a few checks. I will look the product up (as per below) but will also put things in my basket, peruse the shop and give myself a little cooling off before deciding whether to purchase or not. This process means it’s best to head into the shop when I have a little bit of time. I always put things back on the shelf where I found them, if I decide to refrain from a purchase.

Know brands I love and would like to purchase, so I will have an idea of brands I would like to try or have in the past and like already and will try to stick to those. For example, I would love to try UpCircle so will have a look for their products when in store. I don't however purchase items that I already have on the go at home. This can make it a bit of a lottery sometimes.

If it’s new and making bold enviro claims I’ll look them up in the store or the Good On You App (works for beauty and clothing). The app is so easy to use, it’s just a few seconds and I’ll know more.

I will check the price to make sure it’s a bargain. What is the products normal retail price and it is still retailing at that price everywhere? Would I usually spend that much on something like this, or am I spending this much because it’s discounted and I'm getting caught up?

Make sure I use it. If I don’t I’ll gift it on. Of course, trying new products there will always be ones you don’t love, if so, pass them on. Don’t waste them by letting them sit in your cupboard. I thoroughly enjoy using things up, it’s cathartic and makes eco and financial sense.

All of that might seem a lot. Sometimes it does take a little bit of time, but it does become natural and it prevents me overspending and stops me purchasing things I won’t use. This is a win win for the environment and for my pocket.

Got thoughts on shopping mindfully at TK Maxx? Drop us a comment!