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The popular bath brand Laundress has recalled millions of products over concerns relating to bacterial contamination. These products range from laundry detergents to fabric shampoos and conditioners. The bacteria can cause infections in both adults and children but are particularly dangerous to people with weakened immune systems.
The recall applies to items manufactured between January 2021 and September 2022. The bacteria in question are the kind typically found in water and soil. The recall went into effect Thursday and is effective immediately. People who purchased the products in question are instructed to discard them immediately.
The recall was put in place after eleven customers reported they developed bacterial infections after using Laundress products. While the company is still investigating whether or not these infections are correlated to the products, it has issued this recall out of an abundance of caution.
Notably, Laundress has confirmed that customers should feel safe continuing to use other products not included in the recall notice. The company’s other products should be unaffected, even if the recalled items have been contaminated.
The US Consumer Product Safety Commission issued the warning on Thursday and offered some context for the recall. “People with weakened immune systems, external medical devices, and underlying lung conditions who are exposed to the bacteria face a risk of serious infection that may require medical treatment,” the commission noted. “The bacteria can enter the body if inhaled, or through the eyes or a break in the skin.”
Laundress went on, writing that the “[s]ymptoms may range from mild skin symptoms to more serious signs of infection,” and that it is “undertaking decisive steps with our suppliers to ensure production processes meet our safety and quality standards.”
You can find the full list of recalled products here. They were sold directly through Laundress, as well as at Bloomingdale’s, Brooklinen, the Container Store, Jenni Kayne, Kith, N.Peal, Nordstrom, Peruvian Connection, Saks Fifth Avenue, Target, and some smaller regional chains, according to the commission.
Customers are encouraged to seek a refund for the contaminated products, given that they are now unusable. “After requesting a refund, consumers should dispose of the product by closing the bottle tightly and placing it in household trash,” the commission notes. “Do not empty the product prior to disposal.” Emptying the products could allow harmful bacteria to escape and contaminate the surrounding environment.
