Discovering a Recalled Product
Finding out that a product in your home has been recalled can be alarming. Whether you learned about it through a news report, an email alert, or by checking RecallRadar, knowing how to respond quickly and effectively is essential for keeping your family safe.
This guide walks you through the exact steps to take when you discover a recalled product, from immediate safety actions to getting your refund or replacement.
Step 1: Stop Using the Product Immediately
The first and most important step is to stop using the recalled product right away. Many recalls involve serious hazards including:
- Fire and burn risks from defective batteries or electrical components
- Choking hazards from small parts that can detach
- Laceration risks from sharp edges or breaking glass
- Poisoning hazards from contaminated food or lead paint
- Strangulation risks from cords, straps, or other entanglement hazards
Even if you have not experienced any problems with the product, the recall was issued because the manufacturer or a government agency determined the product poses a genuine safety risk.
Step 2: Check the Recall Details
Once you have stopped using the product, gather specific information about the recall:
Identify Your Product
- Locate the model number, serial number, or lot code
- Check the manufacturing date if available
- Note where and when you purchased the product
- Keep your receipt if you still have it
Review the Recall Notice
- Understand what the specific hazard is
- Check if your exact model or lot number is affected
- Read about any reported injuries or incidents
- Note the date range of affected products
Many recalls only affect products manufactured during specific time periods or with certain serial numbers. Your product may look identical to a recalled item but might not actually be part of the recall.
Step 3: Follow the Remedy Instructions
Every recall includes a remedy, which is the action the company will take to address the hazard. Common remedies include:
Refund The company will return your purchase price. You typically need to provide proof of purchase or the product itself. Some companies offer refunds even without a receipt.
Replacement You will receive a new, safe version of the product. The company may send a prepaid shipping label for you to return the defective item.
Repair The manufacturer will fix the defect, often at no cost. For vehicles, this is usually done at authorized dealerships. For appliances, technicians may come to your home.
Partial Refund or Store Credit Some recalls offer partial compensation, especially for older products or when the hazard can be addressed by the consumer.
Step 4: Contact the Manufacturer
Reach out to the company through the contact information provided in the recall notice. Most recall notices include:
- A toll-free phone number
- An email address
- A website with recall information
- Sometimes a dedicated recall form to fill out
When you contact the manufacturer, have the following information ready:
- The product name and model number
- Where you purchased the product
- When you purchased it
- Your contact information
- Your preferred remedy (if options are available)
Keep records of all communications with the manufacturer, including dates, names of representatives, and confirmation numbers.
Step 5: Store or Dispose of the Product Safely
While waiting for your refund, replacement, or repair, store the recalled product safely:
For Products You Are Keeping Temporarily
- Store in a location away from children and pets
- Clearly label it as "RECALLED - DO NOT USE"
- Keep it unplugged if it is an electrical item
- Consider taking a photo for your records
For Products You Are Disposing Of
- Follow any disposal instructions in the recall notice
- Some products may require special disposal (batteries, chemicals)
- Cut cords on recalled items to prevent others from using them
- Do not donate recalled products to charity
Never give away, sell, or donate a recalled product. This could put others at risk and may violate federal law.
Step 6: Report Any Injuries or Incidents
If anyone in your household was injured or if you experienced a close call with the recalled product, report it to the appropriate government agency:
Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) Report injuries from consumer products at SaferProducts.gov. Your report helps the CPSC identify hazard patterns and may lead to additional recalls.
Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Report problems with food, drugs, or medical devices through the FDA MedWatch program.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Report vehicle safety problems at NHTSA.gov/report-a-safety-problem.
Your reports make a difference. Government agencies use consumer reports to identify new hazards, expand existing recalls, and hold companies accountable.
Step 7: Check for Other Recalled Products
Finding one recalled product is a good reminder to check for others. Take time to:
- Search RecallRadar for other products you own
- Sign up for email alerts based on your product categories
- Use the NHTSA VIN lookup tool to check your vehicles
- Review products you bought from online marketplaces
Consider making this a regular habit, perhaps once a month or whenever you make a major purchase.
What If the Company Does Not Respond?
If the manufacturer is unresponsive or difficult to work with:
- Document everything including dates you attempted contact
- File a complaint with the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov
- Contact your state attorney general for consumer protection assistance
- Dispute the charge with your credit card company if you paid by card
- Consider small claims court for significant purchases
Most reputable companies want to resolve recalls efficiently. If you encounter resistance, persistence and documentation are your best tools.
Key Takeaways
- Stop using recalled products immediately, regardless of your personal experience
- Verify your specific product is included in the recall
- Follow the remedy instructions provided by the manufacturer
- Keep records of all communications and transactions
- Never give away, sell, or donate recalled products
- Report any injuries to help protect others
- Make checking for recalls a regular habit
Product recalls exist to protect consumers from harm. By responding promptly and following the proper steps, you help keep your family safe and contribute to a safer marketplace for everyone.
Related Resources
- CPSC Recalls - Official consumer product recall database
- FDA Recalls - Food, drug, and medical device recalls
- NHTSA Recalls - Vehicle and equipment recalls
- USDA FSIS Recalls - Meat and poultry recalls