21 Once-Popular Toys That Have Been Recalled for Being Hazardous
Toys are meant to bring joy and entertainment to children, but unfortunately, not all toys are safe. Over the years, numerous toys have been recalled due to safety concerns, ranging from choking hazards to toxic materials. Let’s look at 21 once-popular toys pulled from shelves for posing hazards to children’s health.
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Aqua Dots (2007)
Aqua Dots, known as Bindeez in Australia, were recalled due to containing a chemical that, if ingested, could convert into the date-rape drug GHB. Marketed as a creative activity, these tiny beads could be arranged into designs and then sprayed with water to set. However, the chemical coating on the beads was found to be toxic when ingested.
Easy-Bake Ovens (2007)
Despite being a beloved toy for generations, Easy-Bake Ovens faced a recall due to safety concerns. Reports emerged of children getting their fingers caught in the oven’s opening, resulting in burns. The iconic toy, designed to let children bake small treats with a light bulb as the heat source, underwent modifications to improve safety.
Sky Dancers (2000)
Sky Dancers, enchanting flying dolls launched from a base, captured the imagination of children worldwide. However, their popularity was marred by safety issues, particularly their propeller-like wings. Reports surfaced of children sustaining eye and facial injuries from the spinning wings during play. The recall underscored the importance of thorough safety testing.
Yo-Yo Water Balls (2003)
These colorful orbs filled with water and attached to an elastic string became a craze among children. However, their popularity was short-lived due to safety concerns. Instances of the elastic string wrapping around children’s necks and posing a strangulation hazard prompted a recall.
Cabbage Patch Kids Snacktime Kids (1997)
Cabbage Patch Kids Snacktime Kids dolls promised interactive play by “eating” plastic snacks with their motorized mouths. However, this innovative feature led to safety issues and subsequent recall. Reports emerged of children getting their hair or fingers caught in the dolls’ mouths, causing injuries.
Magnetix Building Sets (2006)
The magnetic pieces of Magnetix Building Sets offered endless creativity and construction possibilities. However, the sets faced a recall due to serious safety risks associated with the small magnets. Instances of children swallowing the magnets surfaced, leading to intestinal blockages and other severe health complications.
Moon Shoes (1993)
Moon Shoes promised out-of-this-world fun by allowing children to bounce with spring-loaded shoes. However, their appeal was overshadowed by safety concerns and subsequent recall. Instances of children falling and sustaining injuries during use prompted the recall.
Clackers (1970s)
Clackers, acrylic balls on strings, captivated children with their rhythmic clacking sound and mesmerizing motion. However, their popularity waned due to safety issues and eventual recall. Reports emerged of injuries caused by shattered balls and strings wrapping around children’s fingers.
Sky Rangers Park Flyer Radio-Controlled Airplanes (2007)
These planes offered thrilling remote-controlled flight experiences for children. However, safety concerns arose regarding the rechargeable battery pack. Overheating and potential fire hazards prompted the recall.
Buckyballs (2012)
Buckyballs, small magnetic balls that could be shaped and molded, gained popularity for their innovative design and endless creative possibilities. However, their allure was overshadowed by safety concerns and subsequent recall. Instances of children swallowing the tiny magnets surfaced, leading to severe internal injuries and health complications.
Snacktime Cabbage Patch Dolls (1996)
Snacktime Cabbage Patch Dolls offered interactive play by “eating” plastic snacks with motorized mouths. However, safety issues emerged, prompting a recall of the dolls. Reports surfaced of children getting injured by the dolls’ chewing mechanism, leading to hair entanglement and finger injuries.
CSI Fingerprint Examination Kit (2007)
The CSI Fingerprint Examination Kit aimed to provide children with a hands-on experience in forensic science. However, safety concerns emerged regarding the presence of asbestos in the fingerprint powder. The potential health risks associated with asbestos exposure prompted a recall of the kit.
Mini Hammocks (1984)
Mini Hammocks promised relaxation and fun for children, offering a scaled-down version of traditional hammocks. However, their appeal was marred by safety concerns and eventual recall. Reports emerged of children becoming entangled in the hammock’s cords, leading to suffocation hazards.
Power Rangers Action Figures (2007)
Based on the popular TV show, Power Rangers Action Figures became sought-after toys among children. However, safety concerns arose regarding the presence of lead paint in certain figures. The dangerous health risks associated with lead exposure prompted a recall of the affected toys.
Water Balz (2012)
Water Balz, water-absorbing polymer balls, offered sensory play experiences for children, expanding in water to create colorful spheres. However, safety concerns emerged regarding the potential risks if ingested. Instances of children swallowing the balls and suffering from intestinal obstructions prompted a recall.
Power Wheels Barbie Dream Camper (2019)
The Power Wheels Dream Camper promised exciting adventures for young Barbie enthusiasts, offering a motorized ride-on toy with realistic features. However, safety concerns arose regarding the foot pedal mechanism. Instances of the toy continuing to run even after releasing the pedal prompted a recall.
Slap Bracelets (1990s)
Slap Bracelets, popular accessories that could be “slapped” onto the wrist, gained widespread popularity among children and teenagers. However, safety concerns emerged regarding the sharp edges of the metal or plastic bands. Instances of injuries, including lacerations, prompted a recall of certain slap bracelet designs.
My Sweet Love / My Sweet Baby Cuddle Care Baby Dolls (2014)
My Sweet Love and My Sweet Baby Cuddle Care Baby Dolls promised realistic caregiving experiences for children, featuring electronic components for interactive play. However, safety concerns arose regarding overheating the dolls’ electronic systems. Instances of malfunction and potential burn hazards prompted a recall of the affected dolls.
Exploding Kittens: Throw Throw Burrito Dodgeball Card Game (2019)
Exploding Kittens: Throw Throw Burrito Dodgeball Card Game offered a whimsical combination of card gameplay and dodgeball action with soft burrito-shaped toys. However, safety concerns emerged regarding the potential for facial injuries during gameplay. Instances of players getting hit in the face with the soft toys prompted a recall of the game.
Pokémon Burger King Toys (1999)
Pokémon Burger King Toys, distributed as promotional items with children’s meals, became coveted collectibles among Pokémon fans. However, safety concerns emerged regarding the small parts of the toys, posing a choking hazard to young children. Instances of children swallowing or aspirating the small parts prompted a recall of the toys.
Fisher-Price Rock ‘n Play Sleeper (2019)
The Fisher-Price Rock ‘n Play Sleeper, with its inclined design and soothing rocking motion, offered a convenient sleeping solution for infants. However, safety concerns arose regarding the risk of infant suffocation and positional asphyxia. Instances of infant deaths associated with the sleeper prompted a recall and subsequent market withdrawal.
