Consumer Reports has released its annual evaluation of household products, identifying the ten worst home appliances of 2025. This report highlights significant flaws in several popular items, raising concerns about their performance and reliability. The findings stem from extensive tests conducted by Consumer Reports, which assessed over 25 products in various categories, revealing that some appliances fail to meet basic consumer expectations.
Among the appliances flagged are a dishwasher that struggles to clean effectively, a steam mop that lacks proper steaming capability, and a leaf blower that underperforms in its primary function. The report categorizes the products into major appliances, countertop appliances, cleaning and filtering devices, outdoor products, and home technology items.
Notable Poor Performers
The **Hotpoint HDF330PGRWW** dishwasher, originally priced at **$430**, garnered poor reviews for its inability to adequately wash and dry dishes. Despite being available at Lowe’s with an average rating of **3.7 stars** from over **2,500 reviews**, users highlighted issues such as low-quality parts and consistently dirty dishes post-wash. While some customers appreciated its ease of installation, the overall consensus points to its inadequate cleaning performance.
Another disappointing appliance is the **GoWise USA Deluxe GW44800** toaster oven, which ranked last in its category. Retailing for **$107.25**, this appliance boasts **15 functions** and includes a recipe book. However, Consumer Reports criticized its baking and toasting capabilities, reporting that the controls are not user-friendly. Amazon reviews reflect similar sentiments, with its **4.2-star** rating marred by complaints about uneven cooking and a frustrating control panel.
The **GE Profile PEM31SFSS** microwave oven, priced at **$550**, also fell short of expectations. With **1.1 cubic feet** of capacity and **800 watts** of power, users anticipated reliable performance. However, Consumer Reports found it lacking in even heating and speed. Its average Amazon rating of **3.9 stars** is supported by complaints regarding its hard-to-read keypad and insufficient heating ability.
Further Disappointments in the Kitchen
The **Hamilton Beach 6 Speed 64655** stand mixer, retailing at **$62.95**, is another appliance that received poor marks. While reasonably priced, it vibrates excessively during use and struggles with mixing tasks. The average rating on Amazon is **4.1 stars**, with many users reporting difficulties when mixing bread dough and issues with its attachments not reaching the bowl’s bottom.
The **Shark S1000** steam mop earned the lowest score in the Consumer Reports evaluation. Priced at **$69.99**, it was designed to simplify cleaning without chemicals but failed to perform adequately in steam rate tests and stain removal. Despite this, Amazon reviews show an average rating of **4.3 stars**, with many users expressing satisfaction with its cleaning capabilities, although concerns about its durability and power cord length were noted.
The **Hoover SmartWash Pet Complete FH53000PC**, priced at **$319.99**, aims to aid pet owners in maintaining clean carpets. However, Consumer Reports found it ineffective in removing stains and leaving carpets damp. Although it has garnered an average rating of **4.3 stars** on Amazon, many customers echoed concerns about its durability and short cord.
The **Lefant M210** robot vacuum, which retails for **$199.99**, struggles on carpets and has a small dirt bin. With an average rating of **4.1 stars** from nearly **16,000 reviews**, many users reported issues with the vacuum getting stuck and its performance on pet hair.
Consumer Reports also highlighted the **Black+Decker LSW40C** leaf blower, priced at **$129**. While it is noted for being quiet, it fails to efficiently blow leaves, requiring multiple passes to gather debris. Its **4.0-star** average rating on Amazon reflects complaints about insufficient power and battery life despite its lightweight and cordless design.
Lastly, the **Eufy S220** video doorbell, retailing at **$179.99**, struggles with slow alerts and potential security concerns over its footage. Despite an average rating of **4.2 stars** on Amazon, many customers reported issues with motion detection and battery life.
The selection of these ten appliances was based on Consumer Reports’ comprehensive evaluation criteria, including user ratings from various e-commerce platforms. The aim was to ensure that the highlighted issues were widespread and not isolated cases.
These findings serve as a reminder for consumers to thoroughly research before purchasing home appliances, as even popular options may not deliver the expected performance.