The Worst Home Products of 2023—and What to Buy Instead
Here are 23 that didn't make the grade in CR's tests, including fridges that lose their cool and wood stains that fade away in no time
For 364 days of the year, CR publishes articles that keep consumers informed about the very best products that pass through our testing labs. But for one day each year, we like to highlight some of the worst products we’ve seen. We’re talking refrigerators that fail to cool, ovens that can’t bake, and lawnmowers that leave your lawn looking terrible, plus so many more. And with over 9,000 products currently in our ratings, it’s only natural that there’s some serious competition to make the cut for our worst home products of 2023.
This is their chance to have a moment in the spotlight, even if it’s for all the wrong reasons. Read on for our expert takes on the worst home products of the year and some outstanding alternatives to consider instead.
As a rule, our team of engineers and other experts approach testing without any biases. “For every category, we test each model that comes into our labs with the same rigor,” says John Galeotafiore, an associate director for testing at CR.
Worst Major Appliances
These large appliances cost thousands of dollars, but their performance in CR’s tests struggles to justify their price.
Refrigerator: Electrolux Wave-Touch EW23BC87SS
Overall Score: 43
CR’s take: This Electrolux refrigerator is an energy hog and runs more noisily than higher-performing fridges in our tests. Electrolux, as a brand, also earns the worst possible ratings for its French-door refrigerators in terms of predicted reliability and owner satisfaction, according to our member surveys. Members who buy these models are more likely to see them break within the first few years of purchase compared with those of other brands. Members are also not likely to recommend Electrolux French-doors to others.
A better choice: The LG LRFDS3016S French-door refrigerator performs well in all of our tests, and LG French-door models offer decent reliability based on our latest member survey.
For more: Read about the best refrigerators from our tests. And for more advice on refrigerators, see our refrigerator buying guide.
