Recent news reports have shown that NeeDoh, a popular stress relief toy, comes with some significant safety hazards. People have reported that when the toys are exposed to heat, they can burst open (or even explode) and cause burns. These incidents have injured children across the country.
In 2017, an American Toy company, Schylling, introduced NeeDoh through its “Groovy Blob” model. The toy is a soft, dough-like compound that returns to its original shape once squeezed or stretched. Over time, the Schylling has been able to expand the line of toys to over 50 different styles. NeeDoh Nice Cube, Cool Cats, Gummy Bear and Dream Drop are the names of some of the different styles.
NeeDohs are filled with non-toxic, hypoallergenic materials. This includes maltose sugar, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), and cornstarch, with a rubber exterior made of thermoplastic rubber. TPR combines the rubber elasticity with the durability of plastic. They are free from BPA (bisphenol A), phthalates, and latex.
However, problems arise when a NeeDoh is exposed to extreme heat, whether from being left in direct sunlight or being placed in a microwave. When the NeeDoh’s gelatinous/sugar-based material is exposed to heat, it builds up pressure. For instance, a Kentucky mother was in the car with her children when one of her children was burned by a squish toy that was left in the car, forcing her to rush the family to the nearest emergency room for burn treatment.
Over the past year, NeeDoh has gained popularity with children through social media. This raise of popularity has led to stock shortages of the products. “NeeDoh hunting” has become popular for resellers, and typically retails for around $6-$10. However, resellers descend on large stores to buy their inventory with the hope of flipping the products for a large profit. The resale market has seen some NeeDohs sold for as much as $200.
Unfortunately, NeeDoh has been a part of an online trend that can cause injuries. The trend involves placing the stress toy into the microwave to make the toy softer and more pliable. When heated in the microwave, the gelatinous material inside builds up pressure to the point that it can explode. This trend left a nine-year-old from Illinois with serious, second-degree burns to his face, ear, and hands.
When serious harm from a defective or dangerous product causes hospitalization, serious illness, permanent injury or death, it may indicate failures in the manufacturing, distribution or supply-chain process. Victims may have rights to compensation, including medical costs, lost income, pain & suffering, or wrongful death claims. A law firm experienced in product liability cases can investigate the supply chain and identify all liable parties, help preserve critical evidence (packaging, faulty product, medical records), pursue claims on behalf of individuals or families who suffered serious harm and navigate the complexities of multi-state litigation and recall-driven cases
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If you or a loved one experience serious injuries due to product liability, please contact Dreyer Boyajian LLP for a free consultation!
