The US Consumer Product Safety Commission has announced two recalls for play kitchen and stool products, citing dozens of injuries and one death as a result of their use. The recalls affect nearly 500,000 units.
Backyard Kids is recalling its model play kitchens due to a reported incident where a 23-month-old child died after his shirt became caught on a hook while using the product. The company is providing replacement hooks for affected owners.
Cosco has recalled over 302,000 kitchen steppers, a folding step stool with safety features, following reports of the safety bar detaching or breaking during use. This has resulted in several head injuries and other accidents. Owners can contact Dorel Industries to receive a repair kit.
These recalls are part of a growing trend towards Montessori-style learning products for toddlers. Kitchen steppers have become increasingly popular as parents look for ways to engage their children in activities like cooking and cleaning alongside them. However, recent incidents highlight the importance of safety features and proper use.
The US Consumer Product Safety Commission has issued two recalls this year alone, including a March recall of Onasti brand plastic toddler towers due to collapse or tipping hazards.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/maryroeloffs/2025/07/31/play-kitchen-childrens-step-stools-recalled-after-death-head-injuries-reported