Costco Recalls Over 200,000 Heated Socks Following Reports of Burn Injuries

Key Facts

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has announced a recall of over 200,000 pairs of 32 Degrees heated socks sold exclusively at Costco. The move follows multiple reports of consumers suffering first- and second-degree burns while wearing the battery-powered footwear. According to the commission, the China-manufactured socks can cause injuries due to heat, friction, and pressure, particularly during high-intensity physical activities. Consumers who purchased the items between October and December are being offered full refunds as part of the safety measure. While the financial impact on a retail giant like Costco may be limited, the recall entails administrative costs and potential reputational risks. This incident highlights ongoing safety concerns regarding battery-operated consumer goods in the retail sector.