Build-A-Bear Workshop has recalled thousands of its stuffed animals because of an issue with its zippers, posing a serious safety risk.
According to a Thursday report from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, the toy company has recalled 36,000 of its Heartwarming Hugs Bears. The product was sold for $48 at Build-A-Bear Workshop stores and on its website from January 2026 through March 2026.
The recall came after a consumer in the U.K. reported that the bear’s zipper slider, on the side pouch, detached during use. The issue poses “a risk of serious injury or death from a choking hazard to children,” as noted by the CPSC.
However, there haven’t been any reported incidents involving the toy’s zipper in the U.S.
Recalled plush bears can be identified by the model number 034464, located 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,” the CPSC report stated. Because of that element, the toy has a cautionary statement that advises adult supervision.
Consumers with the Heartwarming Hugs Bear are urged to stop using them immediately and return them to their local Build-A-Bear Workshop store. Shoppers will then receive a full refund in their original form of payment or a Build-A-Bear Workshop gift card.
The plush toys are one of many popular products that have been recalled by the CPSC across the U.S.
Earlier this week, Thermos recalled about 5.8 million Stainless King Food Jars and 2.3 million Sportsman Food & Beverage Bottles, after 27 reports of its containers’ stoppers suddenly ejecting when opened and striking users. These incidents caused injuries and cuts, some serious enough to require medical treatment. Three consumers said they had “permanent vision loss after being struck in the eye,” according to the CPSC.
The problem, officials said, is with the lid. If food or drinks are left inside the containers for too long, pressure could build up. When the container is then opened, the stopper can suddenly and forcefully eject, turning the item into a serious impact and laceration hazard.
Also this week, 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 the weight plates dislodging.
There have been at least six injuries due to the dumbbells, including broken toes, bruises, contusions and lacerations.