Stanley’s recall of 2.6 million travel mugs over burn hazards marks another chapter in the ongoing saga of consumer product safety concerns. The December 12, 2024 announcement follows 91 reported incidents worldwide, including 38 burn injuries – numbers that raise serious questions about product testing standards in the consumer goods industry.
The Seattle-based company’s popular Switchback and Trigger Action stainless steel travel mugs, sold between June 2016 and December 2024, suffer from a critical design flaw. The lid threads can shrink when exposed to heat and torque, causing unexpected detachment during use. Of particular concern is that 11 consumers required medical attention for their injuries.
The recall‘s scope is substantial, covering mugs sold through major retailers like Amazon.com, Walmart, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Target. These double-walled mugs, manufactured in China and priced between $20 and $50, were available in white, black, and green colors, ranging from 12 to 20 ounces.
“At Stanley 1913, we are committed to constant improvement and are focused on creating quality products that are built for life,” stated the company. However, this commitment comes into question given the extended period – over eight years – during which these potentially dangerous products remained on the market.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission’s involvement underscores the severity of the situation. The affected products can be identified by specific product numbers: Switchback models (12 oz: 20-01437; 16 oz: 20-01436, 20-02211) and Trigger Action models (12 oz: 20-02033, 20-02779, 20-02825; 16 oz: 20-02030, 20-02745, 20-02957; 20 oz: 20-02034, 20-02746).
More Stories
Consumers should immediately cease using these mugs and contact Stanley for a free replacement lid, including shipping. The Stanley logo on the front and bottom of each mug makes identification straightforward, though the lengthy sales period complicates the recall’s reach.
The CPSC, charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risk of injury or death associated with consumer products, reports their work has contributed to declining injury rates over the past five decades. However, this recall, handled by importer PMI WW Brands LLC (doing business as Stanley 1913 of Seattle, Washington), demonstrates the ongoing challenges in maintaining product safety standards.
Federal law strictly prohibits the sale of any products subject to a Commission ordered recall or voluntary recalls undertaken in consultation with the CPSC. Consumers seeking additional information or replacement lids should visit the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s website or contact Stanley directly.
This recall serves as a reminder of the critical importance of rigorous product testing and swift action when safety issues emerge. As travel mugs become increasingly essential in daily life, manufacturers must ensure their products meet the highest safety standards before reaching consumers’ hands.