Product Recalls

In the last week, there have been a few product recalls affecting children's products. I wanted to share some information about these recalls for any families that might have products affected by the recalls.

The first is of Dorel Asia cribs. It affects cribs sold at K-Mart, Sears and Wal-Mart stores from January 2005 through December 2009. There are two reasons for the recall. On the drop side cribs, the side can become detached while it is being raised or lowered. Additionally, the slats can become damaged. Both of these create a risk of a child getting trapped. If you have one of these cribs, you should stop using it and contact the company at www.dorel-asia.com for a repair kit. For more information on the recall and photos of recalled cribs, visit http://cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml10/10114.html.

The second recall is of Graco strollers. The affected models are Passage, Alano, and Spree that were sold between from October 2004 and December 2009. They are being recalled because the canopy hinge can cut a child’s finger as it is being opened or closed. If you have an affected stroller, you should contact the company at www.gracobaby.com for a repair kit. For more information on the recall, visit http://cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml10/10115.html.

There have also been several recent news stories about cadmium in children’s jewelry and other products. Cadmium is a heavy metal that has been associated with negative health effects. The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends that children not be given inexpensive imported jewelry to play with, especially if they are likely to put the jewelry in their mouth. This is a new concern, and it is likely there will soon be regulations banning the use of cadmium in children’s products, similar to the existing regulations regarding lead.

To check out other product recalls and product safety information, visit the Consumer Product Safety Commission website at www.cpsc.gov.