I thought it was just me – but every Australian has the EXACT same gripe about Woolworths baskets

A heated discussion has erupted over the humble supermarket basket.

And it seems Australians are united on one thing: the newest plastic baskets at Woolworths are causing serious frustration.

It all began with one shopper questioning whether people prefer the older baskets that are lighter, have two handles and are made of metal, or the newer ones that are larger, plastic and have one handle.

‘The old metal ones are lighter. It’s easier to hook your arm through, and more comfortable to hold. The new plastic ones are so bulky and awkward,’ one declared.

For many, the issue comes down to comfort and practicality.

‘Our Woolies doesn’t have the little metal ones anymore – we are stuck with the bulky ones,’ a shopper said.

‘How do I even hold this awkward huge basket so that it doesn’t tip forward every time I put something in?’

Others said the size and shape of the plastic baskets make them difficult to manage in tight aisles.

‘The number of times I’ve accidentally knocked people with the plastic ones is silly,’ one person admitted.

‘I feel like I have to hover my arm out to the side to hold the basket comfortably away from my hip. It’s so tiring on my shoulder and arm,’ another said. 

Some shoppers even reported physical discomfort.

‘The new ones bruise my legs – they’re so difficult to carry around,’ she wrote.

While it might seem minor, several people pointed out the change can significantly affect how they shop – particularly for those who rely on baskets instead of trolleys.

One shopper said they went as far as raising the issue with store management.

‘I explained that I have a weak shoulder and can’t safely use a trolley, and the new baskets are too big and heavy for me,’ she said.

She also noted the impact on older customers, who often prefer smaller, lighter baskets.

‘We have a combo of old and new styles, and nine out of 10 people I see use the lighter version. If they get rid of those, I will have to change how I shop and where,’ she revealed.

Despite the backlash, some shoppers say the newer baskets have their advantages.

‘I like the newer ones. If I overload the metal ones, the handles dig into my hands painfully,’ one said. 

Others pointed out the extra space can be useful.

‘The bigger plastic ones are better because you can chuck your bag inside and still have room for your shopping,’ another added.

The debate highlights how even the smallest design changes can have a ripple effect on everyday life.

In a cost-of-living climate where more Australians are making frequent, smaller shopping trips, baskets are often the preferred option over trolleys.

That means comfort, weight, and ease of use matter more than ever.