Leading consumer advocate Which? has unveiled its 'Don't Buy' list for 2026, featuring products that failed to meet safety and performance standards in its rigorous independent laboratory tests. The findings, set to be published in the August 2026 issue of Which? magazine, aim to guide consumers away from potentially unsafe or ineffective purchases.
Among the products receiving the unwelcome 'Don't Buy' badge is the Kinderkraft Mink Pro 2 + Mink FX 2 Isofix Base (0%). During Which?'s crash tests, which are designed to surpass legal requirements, the car seat shell detached from its Isofix base, posing a significant risk of injury to a child and other passengers. While the product reportedly passed crash tests when installed using a vehicle's seat belt, the severe failure with the Isofix base raises serious concerns. Kinderkraft stated that customer safety is paramount and that their product complies with R129 standards, inviting customers with concerns to contact them directly. Consumers who have purchased this product are advised that they can request a different product or a full refund, even though a manufacturer recall has not been issued.
Another product on the 'Don't Buy' list is the Red Kite Push Me Explor Stroller (43%). This pushchair experienced a critical failure during irregular surface testing, with one of its wheels snapping off while being pushed on a bumpy treadmill. Such an incident could put a child in danger during everyday use. Beyond the safety concern, the stroller also struggled with manoeuvrability on surfaces like gravel and sand, making it impractical for various family outings. Red Kite has stated they take product safety seriously, have received no reports of issues in everyday use, and are currently investigating the matter, including further independent testing.
Which? conducts its product testing in independent laboratories, utilising protocols that often go beyond minimum UK and EU legal requirements to better reflect real-world performance and safety. The organisation contacts brands facing severe safety, performance, or health accuracy failures, offering them an opportunity to respond before publication. The 'Don't Buy' designation is reserved for products deemed inefficient, ineffective, or those that could pose a serious risk to consumers.
For those seeking alternatives, Which? has recommended the Maxi-Cosi Pebble S + FamilyFix S Base (83%) as a 'Best Buy' baby car seat, praised for its safety, lightweight design, and user-friendliness when installed with its base. For strollers, the Joie MyDrift (74%) was highlighted as a 'Great Value' option, offering versatility and a mid-weight design. Consumers are reminded of their rights under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, which states that goods must be of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose, and as described. If a product is found to be faulty, consumers are entitled to a refund, repair, or replacement.