Walmart Recalls 850,000 Water Bottles After
Reports of Users Being Injured by Faulty Caps
A significant
recall of some 850,000 water bottles has been issued by Walmart in response to
allegations that customers were hurt by the goods' faulty lids. Following many
incidents where users were struck in the mouth or face when the caps
violently separated, the recall was made in collaboration with the U.S.
Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
The "Gizmo Flip" kids' water bottle, which is marketed mainly to
children and sold under the well-known Contigo brand, is the affected product.
The recall announcement states that from April 2023 to March 2025, the bottles
were made available only for sale online and in Walmart stores.
Faulty Cap Design Blamed for Injuries
A
design issue in the cap's spout mechanism is the reason for the recall;
pressure buildup might cause the mechanism to abruptly detach, which could
result in the spout springing off and hitting the person. Reported to the CPSC,
there have been at least 43 recorded incidents of injury to date, with many
consumers having eye injuries, chipped teeth, and facial bruises.
A CPSC spokesperson said, "This issue poses an important safety risk,
especially to young children." "Walmart took swift action to alert
customers and remove the goods from shelves."
Doctors stress that even small facial injuries in kids can have long-term
effects, especially around the lips or eyes, even though no fatal wounds have
been reported.
What Consumers Should Do Now
Customers
who bought the recalled bottles have been urged by Walmart to cease using them
immediately and return the item for a complete refund at any Walmart location.
Consumers who want to know how to get an alternative lid or payment can also
get in contact with Contigo directly.
Amongst the affected units are the 14-ounce Gizmo Flip bottles, which have a
clear plastic base and vibrant lids in blue, pink, green, and purple hues.
Inside the package or on a sticker below the bottle are the product number and product
information.
Visit Contigo's official website or www.consumersafety.gov for more information
and verification tools if you're not sure if your bottle is included in the
recall.
Walmart and Contigo Respond
Walmart and
Contigo apologized for the issue and promised to find a swift and secure
resolution in a joint statement.
Walmart stated, "We take product safety very seriously and are working
closely with the CPSC to make sure that all affected items are taken out of
circulation."
A Contigo spokesperson went on to say, "Our top priorities are client
confidence and child safety."
Contigo has already been the subject of recall hearings. Over 5 million bottles
have been pulled in 2019 due to a similar problem with detachable spouts. Some
consumer advocacy groups have called for stronger quality control and testing
procedures in children's products as a result of the recurrence.
Final Thoughts
The
850,000 water bottle recall serves as a stark reminder that even common goods,
especially those meant for children, need to adhere to the strongest safety
standards. Walmart and Contigo are taking immediate steps to resolve the
problem, but the situation highlights the importance of constant care to detail
in product testing and design.
Avoid taking any chances if you think your home contains a recalled water
bottle. To receive a safe replacement or refund, stop using it right away and
adhere to the directions.
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