As Aussie shoppers turn to the big-ticket household items for the annual retail sales, Choice has released its top-duds for this year.

The advocacy group has released a list of items to avoid which include a 55-inch Polaroid PL55UHDNF television and Panasonic's 8.5kg Econavi top-loader washing machine.

"Despite our enthusiasm for bargains, the reality is this is a day where retailers often try to fob off the duds they couldn't sell throughout the year," Choice managing editor Margaret Rafferty said.

"You can pick up a bargain, but research is everything."

Sony's 50-inch W660F television is another TV that shoppers need to pass up.

Choice has also warned shoppers to avoid Ikea's Nedkyld Fridge, which it said in a review, "failed on so many fronts".

Ms Rafferty says shoppers have become more savvy over the past few years in making sure they know the right product to go for.

She said research indicates Australian shoppers are staying up late on Christmas night hunting the best bargains, with the peak of the preparation at 10pm when retailers release their deals.

"Australians are getting smarter at the Boxing Day sales every year," she said.

Australian Associated Press