The festive season is meant to be a time of joy and celebration, but for some Kmart shoppers, it has brought an unexpected concern. A popular range of Christmas-themed bedding has been recalled due to a chemical defect that poses a risk to your health.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has issued a warning about certain quilt cover sets and pillowcase sets that have been found to emit a strong chemical odour. This odour is unpleasant and has the potential to cause adverse reactions in some individuals.
The story first came to light when Nine’s A Current Affair reported on viewers who had experienced health issues after purchasing these items.
Two women from Brisbane, Eden and Holly, experienced severe health issues after exposure to the recalled bedding.
Eden reported that the sheets smelled like diesel and caused her home to reek of chemicals. After a brief exposure, she suffered chest pains and was hospitalised with heart and lung inflammation. Similarly, Holly experienced sudden pain in her shoulder and jaw after contact with the bedding and required emergency medical care.
‘No one would expect that you would go to Kmart for a doona and then get so sick from it,’ she said.
Sold under the Anko brand, the beddings were available for purchase between September 22 and December 4. The concern is that direct contact with the skin or inhalation of the odour could lead to serious injury or illness. The ACCC’s warning is clear: ‘The product emits a strong chemical odour that may cause reactions to consumers, as it did not cure properly during the manufacturing process.’
If you’ve decked your beds with these festive linens, it’s crucial to check the product keycodes to see if your items are part of the recall:
- Mr & Mrs Claus Quilt queen bed set (43435029)
- Christmas Elf Reversible Quilt single bed set (43434862)
- Merry Christmas Pillowcase (43434848)
- Santa & Elves Pillowcase (43434855)
- Christmas Quilt single bed set (43434879)
Customers who have purchased any of these sets are advised to stop using the product immediately. Kmart is offering a full refund to those who return the affected items to their nearest store.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of product safety, especially when it comes to items we bring into our homes and use daily. It also highlights the value of swift action and consumer awareness in addressing potential hazards.
Have you purchased any of these Christmas items from Kmart? Have you noticed a strong chemical smell? Share your experiences with us, and let us know how the recall process went for you. Your feedback is invaluable to fellow readers and helps ensure that everyone has a safe and happy holiday season.
Also read: Are you at risk? Check your home for this recalled DVD player sold at JB Hi-Fi
Surely when people buy new bedding they wash it before use.
Some items even contain instructions telling the purchaser to wash before use.