Stanley Recalls 2.6 Million Travel Mugs Due to Burn Hazard from Defective Lids

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Stanley recalls 2.6 million travel mugs due to burn hazards, affecting popular models sold over eight years.

At a Glance

  • Stanley recalls 2.6 million Switchback and Trigger Action travel mugs
  • 91 incidents reported, including 38 burn injuries globally
  • Faulty lids can detach when exposed to heat, posing burn risks
  • Affected mugs were sold from June 2016 to October 2023
  • Customers can receive free replacement lids from Stanley

Massive Recall Hits Popular Stanley Travel Mugs

In a significant move that affects millions of consumers, Stanley has announced a recall of 2.6 million stainless steel travel mugs due to faulty lids causing burn injuries. The recall encompasses the company’s Switchback and Trigger Action models in 12 oz., 16 oz., and 20 oz. sizes, which were sold through major retailers including Amazon, Walmart, and Target from June 2016 to October 2023.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that the lids’ threads can shrink when exposed to heat, causing them to detach unexpectedly and pose a serious burn hazard to users. This defect has led to 91 reported incidents of detaching lids, resulting in 38 burn injuries globally, with 16 reports and two injuries occurring in the United States alone.

Extent of the Problem and Consumer Impact

The severity of the issue is underscored by the fact that 11 individuals required medical attention due to injuries sustained from the faulty mugs. These products, which were manufactured in China, were sold at prices ranging from $20 to $50 over a period of more than eight years, indicating a widespread distribution and potential for many more unreported incidents.

“At Stanley 1913, we are committed to constant improvement and are focused on creating quality products that are built for life,” the Seattle-based company stated in response to the recall.

Affected customers can identify if their mug is part of the recall by checking for specific product identification numbers printed on the bottom of the mug. Stanley is providing free replacement lids to all customers who have purchased the recalled models.

Stanley’s Rise to Popularity and Recent Challenges

Ironically, this recall comes at a time when Stanley has been experiencing unprecedented popularity, particularly among younger consumers. The brand’s products gained viral traction on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, leading to a dramatic increase in revenue from $73 million in 2019 to a staggering $750 million in 2023.

“On the days that I do have extra time, I search for the specific [color] that matches my shirt,” content creator and Stanley Quencher collector Chelsea Espejo told CNBC. “I wouldn’t even say Stanleys are something I use. They’re actually part of my personality. If I don’t have it, if I don’t choose the right color, my day kind of doesn’t go how I planned it.”

This cult-like following, especially among Gen Z and Millennial women, has turned Stanley cups into must-have accessories. The “Quencher” product, a 40-ounce insulated cup, has become particularly sought after, often selling out in new color releases. However, this recall may potentially tarnish the brand’s image and impact its recent growth trajectory.

Consumer Safety and Company Response

The CPSC advises consumers to immediately stop using the recalled travel mugs and contact Stanley for a free replacement lid. This recall serves as a reminder of the importance of product safety, especially for items used daily with hot liquids.

As Stanley works to address this safety concern, the incident highlights the challenges that can arise when products gain rapid popularity. It also underscores the responsibility of manufacturers to ensure the safety and reliability of their products, regardless of their market success.

Sources:

  1. 2.6 million Stanley mugs recalled after 38 people suffer burns due to faulty lids
  2. Millions Of Stanley Cups Have Been Recalled—Here’s Why
  3. 2.6 million Stanley mugs recalled after 38 people suffer burns due to faulty lids
  4. Stanley recalls 2.6M mugs after dozens suffer burn injuries caused by faulty lids

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