Blog Dare: 157 - Recalls

Today's Prompt: What I should not have bought my child...due to a recall

There haven't been many toys or items that I have really regretted buying. There has only been one item that never should have been purchased, and it wasn't until a minor injury that I found out that it was on a recall list.

When Mikey was only a few weeks old, I would wait for him to fall asleep in his swing and then bring him into the bathroom with me while I showered. Our shower stall had clear glass, so I could see him sleeping the whole time. The cute little music played, he slept peacefully while the battery operated swing just rocked forward and backward. The next thing I know he is slumped over to the side, and pinned in between the two arms of his swing. I jumped out of the shower, while there was still shampoo in my hair, and grabbed my boy out of the swing. He was okay, just a bruise on his forehead, but I still flipped out! I called the pediatrician and asked if he needed to be seen. The following day I called the manufacture, and found out there was a recall, and would be sent a full refund voucher. I received a voucher for the full amount of the swing, and a written note of concern. I was very pleased, when the manufacture called two weeks later to verify that my son was okay, and that I had received the recall voucher.

I learned many lessons that day:

• Even if you can see your baby, it just isn't worth possible injury while showering
• Don't be afraid to call the manufacture with a concern
• recalls can be out there without your knowledge

Thank goodness the swing was manufactured by a very well known company, and they quickly corrected the problem. I also, must say that I gladly spent the voucher buying additional products from the company. So, if you have a product that did not meet your satisfaction, speak up and let the company know. Sadly, too many children are hurt, and it can be months or even a year after a product is released before it is recalled.

Was your baby ever hurt by a product? Did you find out there was a recall on a product you love, and had to call to see what needed to be done? Was a replacement part or total refund voucher offered? Share your recall story!