Bodum USA recalled 5.9 million French press coffee makers sold over five decades after 48 burn injuries were reported nationwide. The glass carafes can shatter unexpectedly during normal use, particularly when damaged by metal utensils, creating serious safety hazards for American families.
Massive Recall Spans 52 Years of Sales
The recalled French press makers include popular 8-cup and 12-cup models sold under names like Chambord, Bistro, and Kenya. Retailers including Target, Walmart, and Amazon sold these products from 1974 through October 2026. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission documented 70 incidents of glass carafe breakage, with 48 consumers suffering burns when hot coffee spilled after the glass unexpectedly shattered.
The company acknowledged receiving reports of carafes breaking during routine use. Federal safety regulators identified metal spoons as a common cause of cracks that weaken the glass, leading to sudden failure. Despite the widespread risk affecting millions of products, Bodum USA confirmed through customer service representatives that refunds will not be offered to purchasers.
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Company Response Raises Consumer Questions
Bodum USA defended its product safety record by noting the incident rate remains low relative to total sales volume. The company stated the recall would “further encourage the safe use” of its products. Instead of monetary compensation, affected consumers can request a free plastic stirring spoon by contacting the company. Critics may question whether a replacement utensil adequately addresses the fundamental product defect that caused injuries spanning multiple decades.
The recall affects Bodum’s American subsidiary of a Danish-Swiss manufacturing company specializing in coffee equipment. Federal regulators assigned recall number 27-055 and instructed consumers to stop using metal utensils with the carafes and discard any showing cracks or damage. The widespread distribution through major retailers means millions of American households may unknowingly possess potentially dangerous coffee makers in their kitchens today.
What Families Should Know
Consumers who purchased Bodum French press coffee makers should inspect their carafes immediately for any chips, cracks, or damage. Contact Bodum USA toll-free at 888-879-8213 weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Eastern Time, email Bodum3302@sedgwick.com, or visit the company’s recall website for verification. The decades-long sales period means even older models pose risks, making thorough household checks essential for family safety.