The first recalled electric blanket to remove before storing for summer is...

As the warm breath of summer approaches, it's time to start thinking about putting away those cozy winter essentials, including electric blankets and heating pads. However, before you stash them away, it's crucial to ensure they are safe for use next winter. Recent recalls have highlighted some significant safety concerns regarding certain electric blankets and heating pads. Ignoring these recalls can pose a fire risk, threatening your home and family's safety.

In this article, we'll explore the most critical recalls you need to be aware of before storing your electric blankets and heating pads. From widespread recalls affecting major brands to specific safety issues with certain models, we'll guide you through the necessary steps to ensure your safety and peace of mind.

Sunbeam, a household name in heating products, recently issued a significant recall for their popular heated blankets. This recall affects over 300,000 units sold in the United States alone. The recall was triggered by reports of overheating, with some consumers experiencing melting cords and even small fires. The specific models affected were manufactured between 2018 and 2020, with model numbers beginning with 'BL' and 'MS'.

Owners of these blankets are advised to immediately discontinue use and contact Sunbeam for a replacement or refund. The company has set up a dedicated recall hotline and website to facilitate the process. Ensuring you act on this recall is essential to prevent any potential hazards in your home.

Bedsure's electric throws, often favored for their affordability and cozy comfort, have recently come under scrutiny. A recall was issued after multiple instances of the throws overheating, leading to potential fire hazards. This recall is specific to models produced in 2019 with serial numbers starting with 'ET'.

Customers are urged to stop using the affected throws immediately and verify if their product is included in the recall. Bedsure has promised a full refund or replacement for those impacted. This issue highlights the importance of not overlooking recalls, as even the most comforting products can pose serious risks.

Beautyrest, a company renowned for its sleep products, has recalled certain heated mattress pads due to overheating issues. The recall affects approximately 43,000 units sold between 2020 and 2021. Reports indicated that the pads could overheat during extended use, posing burn and fire hazards.

The affected units can be identified by inspecting the control unit, which should have the model numbers 'BRHMP' followed by a series of numbers. Beautyrest advises discontinuing use and contacting their customer service for a safe replacement option. This recall underscores the critical nature of monitoring heating product safety, especially those used directly on bedding.

Brookstone, known for its innovative lifestyle products, has recalled certain heated throws after reports of melted fabric and burn hazards. The recall covers approximately 25,000 units sold in late 2019 and early 2020. Customers reported incidents where the heating element within the throw caused the fabric to reach dangerous temperatures.

Consumers should check their throws for model numbers 'BKHT' and contact Brookstone for details on refunds or replacements. This recall serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with electric heating products and the importance of staying informed about product safety announcements.

Biddeford, a popular brand for electric blankets, has issued a recall for blankets with faulty controllers. The issue involves controllers that can overheat, leading to burns or fires. The recall affects units sold between 2017 and 2018 with certain controller models identified by a serial number starting with 'BP'.

Consumers are advised to disconnect the blanket and contact Biddeford for a replacement controller or a full product refund. This recall highlights the importance of checking not just the blanket itself, but also the accompanying control units for safety issues.

Store-brand heating pads sold at major retailers like Target and Walmart have also been recalled due to safety concerns. These heating pads, often marketed under the retailers' own brands such as 'Room Essentials' and 'Mainstays', have been reported to overheat, posing a risk of burns and fires.

The recall involves a significant number of units sold between 2018 and 2020. Shoppers are advised to check their products against recall lists available on the retailers' websites and return any affected items for a refund. This situation emphasizes the need for vigilance with store-brand electric products, which can sometimes be overlooked in recall announcements.

The vast marketplace of Amazon offers a wide array of electric throws, but not all meet safety standards. A recall has been issued for certain electric throws sold by third-party sellers on Amazon, particularly those with uncertified plugs that do not meet UL safety standards.

Consumers should inspect their electric throws for certification marks and avoid using products that lack these safety assurances. Amazon advises contacting the sellers directly for return and refund information. This recall highlights the necessity of ensuring products purchased online meet required safety certifications to avoid potentially hazardous situations.

Electric blankets manufactured before 2010 without auto shut-off features have been flagged across various brand recalls. These older models pose a heightened risk of overheating since they lack modern safety features designed to prevent such occurrences.

Consumers using these older models are encouraged to upgrade to newer, safer versions that include automatic shut-off technology. Checking for recalls on older products can be more challenging, but it's crucial to prioritize safety by ensuring all electric blankets meet current safety standards.

Imported heating pads that lack UL certification are also under scrutiny due to safety concerns. These off-label products, often found in discount stores and online marketplaces, may not adhere to necessary safety regulations, increasing the risk of electrical fires.

Consumers should verify that their heating pads display appropriate safety certification marks before use. Unplugging and discontinuing use of uncertified products is advised until their safety can be appropriately assessed. This recall underscores the importance of purchasing products that adhere to recognized safety standards.

Hand-me-down electric blankets, while often cherished for their sentimental value, may pose significant safety risks if their recall status is unknown. Blankets missing tags or identification numbers cannot be easily checked against current recall lists.

Owners of such blankets are encouraged to consider replacing them with new, safer models. Ensuring the safety of electric blankets is crucial, and missing tags should prompt immediate action to prevent potential hazards.

To check if your electric blanket or heating pad has been recalled, start by locating the model and serial numbers, usually found on tags or labels attached to the product. Next, visit the manufacturer's website or the Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) website to access their recall database.

If your product is listed, follow the manufacturer's instructions for obtaining a refund or replacement. Staying informed about product recalls is a vital step in maintaining home safety, especially when it comes to products involving electrical components and heat.