Major Recall of Hazardous Kitchen Stepper Sold at Walmart, Target

A significant recall has been announced for a kitchen stepper sold at major retailers, including Walmart, Target, and Home Depot, due to safety concerns that have led to injuries. The recall, issued on July 31, 2023, affects over 300,000 units of the product, which is manufactured by Dorel and known as the Cosco stepper.

The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has identified a defect with the safety bar on the kitchen stepper. Reports indicate that the safety bar can break or detach while in use, posing a risk of injury to users. In fact, there have been 34 reports of the safety bar malfunctioning, including two cases of head injuries linked to its failure.

Customers are advised to cease using the stepper immediately and to store the safety bar securely to prevent accidents, particularly for children. In response to the recall, Dorel is providing a free repair kit, which includes a sliding lock designed to secure the safety bar, along with a warning label to affix to the product.

The kitchen stepper was available for purchase from February 2021 to July 2025, priced between $56 and $70, and was offered in various colors such as white, green, navy, and blue.

Additional Safety Concerns in Consumer Products

This recall comes in the wake of growing concerns regarding the safety of children’s products. Recently, reports surfaced about a children’s kitchen toy being recalled due to a strangulation hazard. The toy’s plastic hooks have been known to snag on children’s clothing, creating a significant risk, particularly for crawling infants. Tragically, in 2023, a 23-month-old child lost their life from strangulation after becoming entangled in one of the hooks.

In addition to these recalls, several other consumer items have also faced scrutiny. Recently, fragrance diffusers were recalled due to the potential for internal magnets to detach, presenting a risk to both children and pets. Additionally, an ice cream product was pulled from shelves over undeclared milk content, which poses a serious hazard for individuals with allergies.

Consumers are urged to remain vigilant and to check for recalls on products they may own, particularly those that could pose risks to children. For more information about the kitchen stepper recall and to request a repair kit, customers can contact Dorel directly.