Nowadays, consumers have the convenience of staying at home and surfing the Internet to scout for items to buy, both brand-new and used commodities. Amazon and e-Bay alone have been doing so well since online shopping became not just a fad, but a way of life.
While you save on gas and time by making your purchases through the Internet, you have to realize that you need to go out there to canvass the merchandise before making any buying decision. Note that not all the stuff you get from the net has a money-back guarantee. Sometimes, you are left blaming yourself once the item is not up to your specifications.
To guide you through the world of online shopping, here are the things that your should NOT even think of purchasing:
Medicine and any form of drugs
Offers on wonder drugs such as vitamins, supplements, and other medicines come in plenty. Most sellers would even tell you to get two bottles for the price of one, for example.
No matter how informative or convincing the website you visit is, stay on the safe side! Make your purchases by going directly to the pharmacist. The saying “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” surely applies in this case.
Cosmetics
The risk is just too high if you buy makeup through the Internet. It pays to visit the store yourself to try on the selection and find the most suitable product for you. We’re not just talking about getting the right color to match your complexion. Rather, we’re referring to the potential allergic reaction you might get if you don’t try out the item first. Likewise, you can read the label that goes with the product to examine the ingredients.
Children’s Shoes
The manufacturers may have standards such as U.S., U.K. or Asian size categories. However, note that children, no matter what race, grow up so fast. As such, the size they have today may be bigger way too soon.
Surely, you wouldn’t want to go through the hassle of exchanging the item; having to wait for another round of shipping to get your desired pair. If you like the design so much, just look for a copy in your nearby department store. Otherwise, you can have it hand-made.
Swimsuits
Avoid the risk of purchasing an ill-fitting garment that you thought would give you an “hour-glass silhouette.” NEVER buy your swimwear elsewhere but in a physical store. Although sizes may be standard, you will never know unless you try it on for yourself. Reason? The materials used may not always give the fit and elasticity you want.
“A huge problem with online shopping is the inability to see the size.” – Annonynous online shopper.
Grocery Items
Perhaps if you’re down with the flu or can’t possibly run to the grocery because of an emergency, you can order your stuff online. The problem is that you don’t have the liberty to choose each and every item to check for expiration dates, a slight dimple on the can maybe, or other details that you might miss if you don’t physically examine the bottle or pack.
Furniture
You need to see and feel the material of the furniture. If it’s a bed, of course, you need to feel if the mattress is firm enough for you. Although you may get your inspiration online, a visit to the furniture store to seal the deal is your best bet in getting the perfect piece for your home.
Musical Instruments
If you know music, you would want to personally strum that guitar or play that flute to know if the instrument gives out the desired sound. Even if the product has passed a strict quality control, you are in the best position to confirm if the sound is indeed pitch perfect.
Beware then, of the promise of shopping convenience if you are out to buy any one of these products. It’s better to be inconvenienced by the trip to the store than be sorry for shopping from the comfort of your home.
