After several incidents involving unsanitary customers, Mayhem Comics and Games of Ames, Iowa, has implemented a "smell policy." The store, located about 40 miles from Des Moines, introduced this personal hygiene policy following complaints about unpleasant odors from some visitors.
The comic book store announced the new policy in a Facebook post in late May, alerting customers that they could be asked to leave if they fail to meet cleanliness standards.
New Hygiene Policy at Local Comic Store
The policy suggests that customers wash themselves properly using soap and shampoo and wear clean clothes while visiting the store. The store management has expressed affection for their customers but emphasized maintaining a pleasant atmosphere.
They stated that if complaints are received or staff members notice offensive smells, they reserve the right to ask the offending customer to leave and refuse service.
According to The U.S. Sun, Mayhem Comics and Games of Ames has implemented a hygiene policy that references a common stereotype about comic book enthusiasts-often portrayed in media as socially awkward and neglectful of personal hygiene.
In response to the store's announcement, numerous comic fans acknowledged in the comment section that these stereotypes sometimes hold. One fan mentioned that the stereotype often mirrors reality, while another expressed that little has changed in the fandom regarding this issue.
A notable instance of capitalizing on this stereotype is Marvel's collaboration with Every Man Jack, a personal care company, to produce limited-edition deodorants featuring characters like Spider-Man, Black Panther, and Captain America.
One fan highlighted the marketing creativity, sharing images of the deodorants with descriptions that playfully match the scents to the superheroes, such as a "Fresh Air fragrance" that captures the essence of Spider-Man soaring through the city, tagged as #superheroclean.
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Comic Book Store Challenges: From New Jersey to San Diego Comic-Con
Meanwhile, MSN revealed that a former New Jersey comic book store employee recalls the challenges while working there, emphasizing that their primary issue wasn't with odorous customers but with individuals who treated the store more like a public library.
These individuals would frequently read comics directly off the shelves without making any purchases. Occasionally, some customers bought comics and attempted to return them just hours later, dissatisfied with their content.
Years later, the same individual covered the San Diego Comic-Con for IFC, where the situation differed markedly. Amid the throngs of fans camping overnight and enduring temperatures ranging from 80 to 90 degrees, the need for a hygiene policy became evident.
However, it was acknowledged that enforcing such a policy in that environment would likely prove challenging.
In contrast, Mayhem Comics in Ames, Iowa, seems to have addressed this issue effectively with its hygiene policy. The store, which also has a location in Des Moines, comes highly recommended for its management and atmosphere.
Per the store's policy, visitors must observe personal hygiene before visiting.
According to the comic book store website, for over 32 years, Mayhem Collectibles has served the Ames and Des Moines areas, offering a wide selection of comic books, statues, Funko POP figures, toys, posters, manga, and Japanese foods.
The store also features board, card, role-playing, and miniature games. Known for its clean and friendly environment, Mayhem Collectibles is a popular spot for enjoying series, trying new games, or participating in public events.
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