When it comes to affordable homewares, Kmart is a go-to for many Australians—especially those of us who love a bargain and a bit of DIY flair.
But sometimes, a low price tag can come with unexpected surprises, as one shopper recently discovered in a $7 bathroom essential.
A routine purchase turns into a shock
A Kmart customer, who usually doesn’t bother with reviews or complaints, felt compelled to speak out after a rather unsettling experience with the store’s new Linen Look Soap Dispenser.
The product, which boasts a five-star rating online and promises to ‘elevate your hand hygiene routine’, turned out to be a little less sophisticated—and a lot more concerning—than advertised.
Upon opening her purchase, the shopper found not one, but two dispensers with cracked bottoms and a still-wet chemical coating inside.
But the real shock came with the third dispenser: at the bottom, sealed under resin and sand, was what she described as a ‘mushroom/screw/abnormal item’.
Not exactly the kind of surprise you want in a product meant for your bathroom sink.
Raising the alarm for health and safety
Understandably, the shopper was worried about the hygiene and safety of using the dispenser.
‘Regardless of the cost being $7, a certain standard should be upheld, especially with such risk that may impact others health-wise,’ she said.
She immediately filed a health and safety complaint on Kmart’s website and, after not hearing back, took to social media to ‘spread awareness’.
Kmart has since responded, promising to investigate the matter, but as of yet, no solution has been offered.
The shopper considered returning the product in person but worried it might simply end up back on the shelves or in the bin, potentially putting other customers at risk.
She’s now waiting for Kmart’s instructions, hoping the products will be recalled if necessary.
A pattern of quality concerns?
This isn’t the first time Kmart’s quality control has come under fire. Other shoppers have chimed in online, expressing disappointment and concern.
‘More and more items aren’t being checked thoroughly at Kmart,’ one person commented. Another added, ‘It’s so sad to see Kmart letting this happen over and over again with their products.’
Some shoppers, spooked by the story, have vowed to check their own purchases more carefully. ‘Holy moly, I bought one of these last week… I’ll be emptying it and checking it tomorrow,’ one wrote.
Others pointed out that mass-produced pottery can sometimes have rough finishes or hidden flaws, especially at such a low price point.
And it’s not just soap dispensers. Recently, Kmart’s flannelette sheets have also come under scrutiny, with customers complaining of a strong chemical smell and calling for a recall.
The $30 Floral Butterfly Cotton Flannelette Sheet Set and the $40 Gingham Cotton Flannelette Sheet Set have been singled out, but some say the entire aisle ‘stunk’.
Kmart’s response
In response to these concerns, a Kmart spokesperson said the company takes product quality and safety ‘very seriously’.
They encourage any customer who experiences an issue to contact their customer service team so it can be ‘appropriately addressed and reviewed’.
Kmart has also promised to conduct its own review following the social media posts.
A few tips for safer shopping
- Always inspect new purchases, especially items that come into contact with food, skin, or water.
- Give new homewares a good wash before use.
- If you notice a strong chemical smell, air the product out and wash it thoroughly. If the smell persists, consider returning it.
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions or request a refund or replacement if something isn’t right.
As the situation continues to unfold, it’s clear that consumer experiences and product quality remain important considerations for many households.
Whether this was an isolated incident or part of a broader pattern, staying informed and vigilant can help shoppers make confident choices when it comes to everyday purchases.
Have you come across any unexpected issues with your homewares or similar products recently? How do you usually handle quality concerns with items you’ve bought? We’d love to hear your thoughts or experiences—feel free to share them in the comments below and join the conversation.
Also read: Kmart shoppers swear by this $10 find—will it solve your space woes?
