NEW YORK — Some 3.3 million steam cleaners are being recalled across North America due to a burn hazard that has resulted in consumers reporting more than 150 injuries.
Select models of Bissell-branded “Steam Shot Handheld Steam Cleaners” can spew hot water or steam while the products are in use or being heated up, according to notices Thursday from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and Health Canada. That poses a risk of burns to users.
Bissell has received a 183 reports of hot water or steam expelling from the products. That includes 157 reports of minor burns, the regulators noted, with 145 injuries reported in the U.S. and 12 in Canada as of June 4, according to Health Canada.
Consumers are urged to immediately stop using the now-recalled steam cleaners and contact Grand Rapids, Michigan-based Bissell for a refund or store credit. Impacted customers will have a choice between $60 (CA$82) in store credit or a $40 (CA$55) refund for each.
The recalled steam cleaners, which were made in China, can be identified by model numbers — listed on Bissell’s website. There, consumers can also find more information about registering for the recall and follow instructions for cutting the products’ cord and uploading photos.
On its site, Bissell said that “safety is our top priority,” later adding that the company chose to voluntarily recall these steam cleaners “out of an abundance of caution.”
The Bissell steam cleaners under recall were sold at major retailers including Target and Walmart, as well as online at sites like www.bissell.com and Amazon, from August 2008 through May 2024.
An estimated 3.2 million were purchased in the U.S. Nearly 355,000 were sold in Canada.
A recent recall alert has been issued for more than 3 million steam cleaners due to a serious burn risk. The affected steam cleaners have been found to spew hot water, posing a danger to consumers.
The recall affects various brands and models of steam cleaners, including popular ones such as Bissell, Hoover, and Shark. These steam cleaners are commonly used for cleaning and sanitizing floors, carpets, and other surfaces in homes and businesses.
The issue with these steam cleaners is that they have a tendency to spew hot water unexpectedly, which can result in burns to the user or anyone nearby. This poses a serious safety hazard, especially for households with children or pets.
Consumers who own one of the affected steam cleaners are advised to stop using it immediately and contact the manufacturer for further instructions. In some cases, the manufacturer may offer a replacement or repair for the defective unit.
It is important for consumers to take this recall seriously and act promptly to avoid any potential injuries. Burn injuries can be painful and may require medical attention, so it is crucial to prevent any accidents from happening.
To check if your steam cleaner is part of the recall, you can visit the manufacturer’s website or contact their customer service hotline. It is also recommended to register your product with the manufacturer to receive any future recall alerts or updates.
In the meantime, it is advisable to use caution when using any steam cleaner and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Avoid pointing the steam nozzle towards yourself or others, and keep children and pets away from the area while using the steam cleaner.
By staying informed and taking appropriate action, consumers can protect themselves and their loved ones from potential burn risks associated with these defective steam cleaners. Remember, safety should always come first when using any household appliance.
