diff --git a/sql/sql_show.cc b/sql/sql_show.cc
index e9873d2325f..6c940661763 100644
--- a/sql/sql_show.cc
+++ b/sql/sql_show.cc
@@ -3155,8 +3155,9 @@ end:
   /* Restore original LEX value, statement's arena and THD arena values. */
   lex_end(thd->lex);
 
-  if (i_s_arena.free_list)
-    i_s_arena.free_items();
+  // Free items, before restoring backup_arena below.
+  DBUG_ASSERT(i_s_arena.free_list == NULL);
+  thd->free_items();
 
   /*
     For safety reset list of open temporary tables before closing