There have been some scary reports recently about a beloved toy that many children have: Sophie the Giraffe. This has been a popular toy for more than half a century and there are upwards of 50 million made in total. Made from latex, these toys are marketed as being 100% natural and are especially popular while a child is nursing.
It sounds like a great toy, right? Well, there’s been bad news: Some parents have found mold inside of the toy. This is frightening parents even more because this is not just a toy for children, but a toy that their child are supposed to put in their mouth.
It all started in New Jersey
The issue was discovered when a dentist in New Jersey noticed a strange smell coming from her son’s giraffe. She ended up cutting it open and discovered there was mold inside. Experts now say that the reason the mold grows is because of the air hole in the toy. This toy is there so that children can squeeze it.
After the mother posted pictures of the moldy giraffe, other parents started to do the same thing. A spokesperson for the company that makes the toys said that they include cleaning instructions with every toy and that if parents don’t follow those instructions, they’re not responsible. The cleaning method they provide involves washing the toy in hot, soapy water or running it through the dishwasher.
There hasn’t been a recall yet – but keep your eyes out
As of today, the company that makes these toys has not issued a recall because they say that no illnesses have been tied to the issue. The good news is that mold doesn’t generally cause injury or illness, except for those who are allergic for mold. It’s rare for there to be a life-threatening issue that results from exposure to mold.
What to do if your toy is moldy
If you cut open your toy today, and you find mold in it, then you need to keep it away from your child. While this case may not currently be an issue of defective products, if you or a family member has had an issue with a defective product, then you can call Gilbert and Smallman today for a free consultation. We are here to represent your interests from day one through the end of your case.
