Publix among stores limiting number of cleaning, sanitizing products customers can buy

LAKELAND, Fla. - If you've been in the Publix cleaning supply aisle lately, you've seen the nearly empty shelves. But if you look a little closer, Publix just added new signage on those aisles: "Because of increased demand, customers are limited to two of each item." 

Publix joins other supermarket chains nationwide to impose a limit on specific items consumers are buying to combat the COVID-19 coronavirus. 

FOX 13 News caught up with Publix shoppers in Tampa today to get their reaction. Most said it's the fair thing to do.

“I think it's fine, I don't think we need 60 of them!" laughed shopper Crysta Metcalf. 

She took her mother to the store to stock up on Lysol wipes.

"My mom lives in a condo, and there a lot of people are touching trash chutes and things like that, so we figured why don't we get a couple of containers of [supplies]," she said.

Others, like Anthonia Agbakwu, could be hurt by a limit. Agbakwu works at a nearby retirement home, and brought one of her elderly patrons to Publix with her Monday. 

"I take care of a lot of elderly people at Canterbury Towers, so I need some Lysol for their apartments and all that stuff, to wipe down their doors and everything for them," she said. "I got some Lysol spray, wipes and bathroom wipes today."

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The limited items extend beyond just wipes and bleach. 

Publix says due to the increase in demand over health concerns from the COVID-19, purchase limits also include items like facial tissue, rubbing alcohol, along with disposable cups, plates and utensils. 

The supermarket's spokesperson, Maria Brous says the limits will be in place until further notice. As for items that are sold out, Brous sent us this response via e-mail:

"We are making daily deliveries; however, items may not be in-stock from the supplier. Our teams are working diligently to restock items as quickly as possible."