Build-A-Bear Workshop has issued an urgent recall of thousands of its plush toys in the United States due to a serious safety risk involving the zippers. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reported on Thursday that the company is recalling 36,000 units of its Heartwarming Hugs Bears, sold for $48 at Build-A-Bear Workshop stores and online from January 2026 through March 2026.
Details of the Recall
The recall was prompted after a consumer in the United Kingdom reported that the bear’s zipper slider, located on the side pouch, detached during use. According to the CPSC, this issue poses a risk of serious injury or death from a choking hazard to children. However, no incidents involving the zipper have been reported in the U.S. as of yet.
Identifying the Recalled Product
Recalled plush bears can be identified by the model number 034464, which is printed on the label sewn into the stuffed animal's leg. The bears contain a red heart filled with two and a half pounds of ceramic beads, which can be heated or cooled for comfort. Due to this feature, the toy includes a cautionary statement advising adult supervision.
Consumer Action Required
Consumers who own the Heartwarming Hugs Bear are urged to stop using it immediately and return it to their local Build-A-Bear Workshop store. Shoppers will receive a full refund in their original form of payment or a Build-A-Bear Workshop gift card.
Other Recent Recalls
The plush toys are among several popular products recalled by the CPSC recently. Earlier this week, Thermos recalled approximately 5.8 million Stainless King Food Jars and 2.3 million Sportsman Food & Beverage Bottles after 27 reports of container stoppers suddenly ejecting when opened, causing injuries. Three consumers reported permanent vision loss after being struck in the eye. The issue arises from pressure buildup inside the containers if food or drinks are left for too long, causing the stopper to forcefully eject.
Additionally, Tzumi Electronics recalled 50,000 of its FitRx SmartBell Quick-Select 5-52.5-lbs. Adjustable Dumbbells, sold at Walmart stores and online, after 115 reports of weight plates dislodging. At least six injuries have been reported, including broken toes, bruises, contusions, and lacerations.
