8 Things You Should Never Buy on Amazon (and 17 You Definitely Should)

Shopping on Amazon can be super convenient, but there are some items you might want to skip when it comes to this retail giant. Here’s a list of products to avoid buying on Amazon, along with some must-buys that make your Prime membership worth every penny!

1.Skip: Generic Phone Chargers

While they might be cheap, off-brand chargers can be unreliable or even unsafe. Many generic chargers don’t meet safety standards, potentially damaging your devices or posing fire hazards.

Buy Instead: Amazon’s In-House Electronics

Amazon’s own brands, like AmazonBasics, are generally safe, tested, and reasonably priced. From cables to chargers, you’ll find reliable options with solid warranties.

Recommend：

Amazon Basics Fast Charging USB-C to USB-A 2.0 Cable

Wall Outlet Extender with Shelf and Night Light ,USB Wall Charger

Amazon Echo Dot (5th Gen, 2022 release)

2.Skip: High-End Designer Clothing

Amazon isn’t the best place for designer items. You run the risk of receiving counterfeit products or items that don’t match up to the luxury brand’s quality.

Buy Instead: Basics & Essentials

Amazon offers an array of high-quality, affordable basics like T-shirts, loungewear, and workout clothes from brands like Hanes, Champion, and Amazon’s own Essentials line. Perfect for everyday wear without breaking the bank.

Recommend：

Hanes Comfort

Champion Classic Sweatshirt

Amazon’s Essentials

3.Skip: Big-Ticket Electronics

Amazon’s deals on big electronics might look appealing, but it’s often better to buy these items directly from manufacturers or electronics stores where you’ll get better warranties and support.

Buy Instead: Small Kitchen Gadgets

You’ll find unbeatable deals on items like immersion blenders, coffee grinders, and other small kitchen tools that make meal prep easier. Plus, customer reviews help you choose the best options for your needs.

Recommend：

Powerful Immersion Blender, Electric Hand Blender 500 Watt with Turbo Mode

Amazon Basics Electric Coffee Grinder

4.Skip: Home Gym Equipment

Weights and gym machines are often overpriced on Amazon due to high shipping costs. Local sporting goods stores or even secondhand options could save you a lot.

Buy Instead: Yoga Mats and Accessories

For lighter, compact fitness accessories like yoga mats, resistance bands, and foam rollers, Amazon offers excellent options at competitive prices. Look for brands with high ratings for quality assurance.

Recommend：

Amazon Basics 1/2 Inch Extra Thick Exercise Yoga Mat with Carrying Strap

Fit Simplify Resistance Loop Exercise Bands

5.Skip: Premium Beauty Products

Amazon might have your favorite beauty products, but authenticity can be a gamble, especially with third-party sellers.

Buy Instead: Everyday Skincare Basics

Amazon is great for affordable skincare essentials like moisturizers, sunscreens, and cleansers from trusted brands. Look for items sold directly by Amazon to ensure quality.

Recommend：

CeraVe Moisturizing Cream

6.Skip: Specialty Pet Foods

Many specialty pet foods are pricier on Amazon than from local pet stores, where you can also find fresher inventory.

Buy Instead: Pet Toys & Accessories

Amazon has an excellent selection of pet toys, beds, and grooming tools at reasonable prices. Check reviews for durability to keep your pet happy without spending a fortune.

Recommend：

PetDroid Durable Motion Activated Automatic Rolling Ball Toys

Oneisall Low Noise Rechargeable Cordless Electric Quiet Hair Clippers Set

7.Skip: Large Furniture

The idea of ordering a couch with a click sounds great, but it’s risky without seeing it in person. Quality, color, and comfort might not match the product photos, and returns can be a hassle.

Buy Instead: Compact Storage Solutions

Amazon is perfect for smaller storage items like shelves, organizers, and space-savers that can tidy up your home without requiring an in-store experience.

Recommend：

REIBII 2020LBS Storage Shelves 5 Tier Garage Shelving

20 Pack Vacuum Storage Bags, Space Saver Bags

8.Skip: Fresh Produce

Unless you live in a city where Amazon Fresh or Whole Foods delivery is available, fresh produce from Amazon might not arrive in the best condition.

Buy Instead: Non-Perishable Pantry Staples

For pantry items like rice, pasta, canned goods, and snacks, Amazon has reliable options that are often competitively priced, especially when buying in bulk.

Recommend：

StarKist Chunk Light Tuna in Water

Frito Lay Ultimate Snack Care Package