Walmart recalls electric blankets after multiple customers report fires and serious burn injuries across the United States
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Walmart recalls electric blankets after multiple customers report fires and serious burn injuries across the United States

If you’ve picked up an electric blanket from Walmart in the past few years, it might be time to check the label.

The retail giant has just issued a major recall on thousands of MaxKare Electric Blankets after multiple customers reported that the products overheated, caught fire, and caused serious burns.

What You Need to Know About the Blanket Recall

Walmart’s recall impacts around 8,500 MaxKare Electric Blankets, which were sold exclusively online between June 2021 and November 2024.

The affected blankets came in brown or gray and were offered in twin, full, and queen sizes. Prices ranged from $27 to $80.

If you’re not sure whether your blanket is part of the recall, check the product label for one of these model numbers:

  • HB18A-7284-1

  • HB18A-8490-2

  • HB18A-6284-1

Walmart has advised customers to stop using the blankets immediately and dispose of them safely.

For anyone looking to request a refund, they can reach out directly to the manufacturer, Shenzhen Yumo Commerce.

Walmart Responds to Safety Concerns

In a statement, Walmart emphasized its commitment to customer safety:

“Walmart and Sam’s Club are committed to the health and safety of our customers and members…

In the event of a product recall, we work swiftly to block the item from being sold and remove it from our stores and clubs.”

More Trouble Brewing: Listeria Fears in Ready Meals

Unfortunately, the electric blanket recall isn’t the only issue Walmart is currently facing.

The company is also caught up in a federal investigation after three deaths and one pregnancy loss were linked to listeria-contaminated ready meals sold at Walmart and Kroger.

The culprit? Chicken fettuccine alfredo dishes distributed by FreshRealm, a popular food supplier.

Here’s What’s Been Recalled

The potentially contaminated meals include:

  • Marketside Grilled Chicken Alfredo with Fettuccine Pasta (sold at Walmart)

    • Sizes: 32.8 oz and 12.3 oz

    • Best-by dates: June 26 and 27, 2025

  • Home Chef Heat & Eat Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo (sold at Kroger)

    • Size: 12.5 oz

    • Best-by date: June 19, 2025 or earlier

The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is currently investigating, as 17 people across 13 states have already fallen ill.

Why Listeria Is So Dangerous

Listeria infections can be serious. While many people experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, headaches, or diarrhea, the bacteria pose significant risks for pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.

In the most severe cases, the infection can be fatal.

A String of Recalls: A Pattern of Concern?

This isn’t the first time Walmart has had to recall food products over listeria fears.

Earlier this year, its Marketside celery sticks were pulled from shelves across 29 states after a random test by Georgia’s agriculture department flagged potential contamination.

And it didn’t stop there—just a month later, canned tuna was recalled due to a manufacturing defect with the “easy open” lids that could lead to dangerous food spoilage.

Tri-Union Seafoods, the supplier, issued that warning after being alerted by its own sources.

What’s Next for Walmart?

Between fire-prone blankets and tainted food products, Walmart is under intense scrutiny from both regulators and concerned customers.

As federal investigations continue and more recalls roll out, one thing is clear—consumers need to stay alert, check product labels, and report any concerns promptly.

If you’ve purchased any of the mentioned products, it’s worth double-checking your shelves—and acting quickly if your items are part of the recall.