People who take out store cards to pay for large initial purchases should ensure that they pay off the balance in the first month.

Store cards have come in for heavy criticism from consumer groups prompting an investigation from the Competition Commission.

High rates of interest – sometimes close to 30 per cent – can lead to customers running up huge debts.

But price comparison site moneysupermarket.com has urged people to make these cards work for them.

"Store cards are attractive to consumers at point of sale as they usually offer a discount or introductory offer when you first take out the card," said director of credit cards, Richard Mason.

"If you are making a big purchase, such as a kitchen or a substantial amount of clothes, my advice would be to take advantage of the discount on offer, but it is very important to absolutely ensure you pay the full debt off within the month of taking the store card.

"If you are not likely to pay off the debt immediately, then stay away from them," he added.