On Reddit, workers from various stores have been revealing shocking stories about the terrible conditions they face at their jobs. One story, in particular, from a former Goodwill employee, has caught a lot of attention. First shared in late August 2020, the post has gained over 81,000 upvotes, with people horrified by what they learned.

“I worked at Goodwill, and we don’t clean any of the items we sell,” the worker explained. “We get some really gross stuff, and it touches everything. So, if you buy something from Goodwill, wash it really well before wearing it.”

Another former employee backed up this claim, saying, “I used to work at Goodwill, and you are 200% right.”

This revelation hit some people hard. One shopper said, “Even before COVID, I’d always feel so gross after leaving there. I’d wash my hands immediately.”

Surprisingly, many weren’t too shocked by the news. “Sorry to ruin everyone’s day, but the last time I was at a thrift store, I found some great yoga pants… but the crotch was crusty,” one user shared.

Another person recalled a horrifying experience: “Oh god! You reminded me! I thought everything was washed before. Once I tried on a pair of pants. It was only after that I realized the previous owner DID NOT WEAR UNDERWEAR! It was disgusting. Either they wore the pants for a week straight, or they really need to see a doctor.”

One shopper had a solution: “Goodwill? I wash any and all clothes I buy before wearing them. Warehouses and people are gross. Goodwill is no different.”

Others took it even further. “Washing twice makes it nice,” one person said. “Most times, you have to anyway because the water from the first load… you’ll see when you try it.”

Another user added, “You should wash any clothes before wearing them, no matter where they come from. Whether it’s Goodwill or the fanciest store, assume it’s touched something nasty and wash it.”

Despite the growing list of complaints, not everyone agreed with the worker’s story. One volunteer, who worked at a Goodwill for a year, defended the store, saying, “I have a friend who volunteered there. She said she’s never seen so much cleaning being done. Thanks to the elderly ladies who volunteered, everything was always squeaky clean.”

So what do you think about this shocking news from Goodwill? Should we be more cautious about secondhand shopping, or is it just a normal part of the thrift store experience? Share your thoughts in the comments!