Nearly two million Bissell steam cleaners have been recalled due to safety concerns, following reports of burn injuries associated with the product. The recall affects approximately 1.7 million units sold in the United States and around 96,000 units in Canada, as confirmed by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) on 9 April.
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The issue pertains to certain models of the Bissell steam shot omnireach and steam shot omni steam cleaners. Users have reported that attachments can unexpectedly detach, resulting in the ejection of hot water or steam, thus posing a significant risk of burns. The CPSC noted that there have been 206 reports of hot water escaping from these steamers, including 161 instances of burn injuries, some of which involved second-degree burns.
Retailers where the affected steam cleaners were sold include major outlets such as Walmart and Target, as well as online platforms including Amazon and BISSELL.com. The prices of these products ranged from £7 to £46, making them a widespread household item in many homes.
Consumers who possess these recalled steam cleaners have been urged to cease using the attachments immediately. Bissell has provided a mechanism for customers to obtain free replacements for the defective attachments through a dedicated recall website.
The CPSC has emphasised the importance of not using the recalled steam cleaner attachments. Affected consumers are advised to visit the recall website, www.steamshot2026.com, where they can find detailed instructions on how to register for the recall. This includes guidance on how to dispose of the original attachments and submit relevant photographs for verification.
The types of attachments that are potentially hazardous, depending on the model, include various accessories such as nozzles, grout brushes, and steam squeegees. Customers are encouraged to check their products against the list of affected model numbers provided by the CPSC.
The response from Bissell regarding this recall has yet to be publicly disclosed, as requests for comments have gone unanswered. Nonetheless, the company is expected to assist affected customers and rectify the situation as efficiently as possible.
This incident highlights the imperative for safety vigilance when using household appliances, particularly those that operate with steam or hot water. Consumers are reminded to stay informed about product recalls and to report any unusual incidents with their household goods to the relevant authorities to help mitigate risks to their safety.
As the recall unfolds, it remains critical for consumers to heed these warnings and take the necessary steps to ensure their own safety, as well as that of their families.