Consumer watchdog Which? has identified four products that failed its rigorous safety tests, branding them as 'do not buy' items. The products, sold at major retailers including Amazon and Boots, range from hazardous child car seats to ineffective technology.
Kinderkraft Mink Pro 2 and Mink FX 2 Isofix Base (£79)
This car seat received a score of zero in Which?'s tests. The seat shell separated from the Isofix base during crash testing, posing a serious risk of injury. While no recall has been issued, Kinderkraft is offering customers a replacement or full refund. A spokesperson said: 'We declare full compliance with Regulation R129... Customer safety is of the utmost importance to us.' Which? recommends the Maxi-Cosi Pebble S and FamilyFix S Base (£260) as a safer alternative.
Red Kite Push Me Explor Stroller (£95)
The stroller scored just 43% after a wheel came loose during durability testing on uneven terrain. It also proved difficult to manoeuvre on gravel and sand. Red Kite said: 'We take product safety extremely seriously... The product has previously passed independent testing to BS EN 1888 standards.' Which? suggests the Joie MyDrift (£250) as a better option.
Braun ExactFit 5 Connect Blood Pressure Monitor (£80)
This monitor failed both the AAMI/ISO Universal Standard and the British and Irish Hypertension Society accuracy requirements. Incorrect readings could cause needless worry or misdiagnosis. Braun responded: 'Our clinical testing follows the European Society of Hypertension International Protocol... complaint rate related to accuracy of less than 0.05%.' Which? recommends the Boots Multi-User Blood Pressure Monitor (£35) instead.
Konsung Pro Dry Biochemical Analyzer At-Home Cholesterol Monitor (£450)
This at-home cholesterol monitor was labelled a 'Test Fail' after readings repeatedly failed to match clinical reference measurements. Which? suggests the London Medical Laboratory Cholesterol Test (£39), a postal kit delivering accurate results within 48 hours.
Silentnight Airmax 800 Air Purifier (£69)
Scoring just 37%, this air purifier struggled to filter small particles compared with rivals. Silentnight said: 'It has never been marketed or claimed to remove volatile organic compounds... We are confident consumers are given clear information.' Which? recommends the Blueair Mini Max (£68) as a better value option.
House of Marley Jammin Speaker (£30)
Which? gave the speaker a score of 42, noting its sound lacked clarity and depth. The Tribit XSound Plus 2 (£49.98) is recommended as an alternative.
Harry Rose, Which? Magazine editor, said: 'Shoppers shouldn't have to gamble on whether a product will perform as promised. Our 2026 Don't Buys show that a well-known brand or premium price tag is no guarantee of quality, safety or performance.'
