RECALL: 341,000 Playtex Hip Hammock Infant Carriers Due to Fall Hazard

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with Playtex Products Inc., today announced a voluntary recall of about 341,000 Playtex Hip Hammock infant carriers because the buckles on the waist and shoulder straps can crack or break, posing a fall hazard to the child.

Playtex has received 87 reports of the buckles cracking or breaking, including two reports of injuries, where one infant required emergency room treatment.

The Playtex Hip Hammock is an infant carrier designed to strap the baby against the caregiver’s body at the hip. It is made of a soft, quilted fabric and intended for babies that are from 15 to 35 pounds. The child seat is attached with straps that wrap around the carrier’s hips and shoulder. “Playtex Hip Hammock” is printed on a label sewn into the front of the carrier. All model numbers are being recalled. Model numbers 05300, 05301, 05302, 05306, 05307 and 05308 are sewn into the inside panel below the instructions for use. They come in basic and deluxe styles. The hip hammock’s fabric is suede or ultra-suede in black or navy colors on the outside, and the inside lining is black, black and white check or burgundy.

The carriers were sold at Burlington Coat Factory, Target, Walmart, juvenile product, baby and discount stores nationwide and online at Amazon.com from June 2004 through December 2008 and January 2010 in Canada for about $40 for the basic model and $60 for the deluxe model.

Consumers should stop using the carrier and contact Playtex at (800) 522-8230 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or online at www.playtexproducts.com and click on Recall for more instructions on how to return the product for a full refund.