Officials issue urgent recall of fridge sold at Walmart and on Amazon over fire concerns

Officials issue urgent recall of fridge sold at Walmart and on Amazon over fire concerns

A popular mini fridge, marketed under the Paris Hilton brand and sold at major retailers like Walmart and Amazon, has been recalled due to significant fire safety concerns. This recall, initiated by safety regulators, stems from a disturbing number of reports detailing the units spontaneously catching fire.

Specifically, authorities have received at least 27 reports of these mini beauty fridges igniting. This alarming trend has prompted a swift and decisive action to remove the potentially hazardous appliances from consumers' homes.

The root cause of the problem lies within the fridge's electrical switch. According to the recall notice, the switch is prone to short-circuiting. This short circuit can then lead to overheating, which, in turn, creates a substantial risk of both fire and burns.

These miniature cooling units were widely available for purchase from November 2022 through July 2025. The fridges came in two sizes, each with a different price point: the smaller, four-liter model retailed for around $30, while the larger version, with a ten-liter capacity, sold for approximately $60.

The recalled models encompass a range of colors in both the four-liter and ten-liter sizes. The four-liter fridge was available in pink, white, aqua, and hot pink, providing consumers with a variety of aesthetic choices. The ten-liter model, meanwhile, came in pink and white.

Recalled Paris Hilton mini beauty fridge with mirror and light.

Beyond Walmart and Amazon, these fridges were also sold at Ross, Walmart.com, and various other online retailers, significantly expanding their reach to a wide consumer base. This widespread availability underscores the potential impact of the recall.

Estimates suggest that approximately 110,000 of these Paris Hilton-branded mini fridges were sold across the United States. The recall specifically includes units manufactured prior to August 2024, indicating a potential design or manufacturing flaw that was subsequently addressed.

Identifying an affected unit is relatively straightforward. For the four-liter model, the model number and serial number can be found on a label located on the back of the fridge. The ten-liter model, in contrast, has its identifying information on the bottom of the unit.

Further aiding identification, the "Paris Hilton" branding is prominently displayed on the door of the fridge. On most units, the branding is positioned in the lower right corner. However, some units feature the branding in the top middle of the door.

Specific serial numbers associated with the recall include PH11887, PH11887-1, PZB02-E001, PH12540, PZP01-E001, and PZW01-E001. Consumers who own a fridge with any of these serial numbers should immediately take action.

Pink Paris Hilton mini beauty fridge with a mirror and LED light.

The official recommendation to consumers is to "immediately stop" using the fridge. Continuing to use the appliance could expose individuals to the risk of fire or burns. After discontinuing use, consumers are instructed to register for a refund.

This fridge recall isn't the only recent product safety concern. Shoppers were also recently alerted to a potential issue with a popular Mac & Cheese product sold at major retailers.

In that instance, the recall was triggered by the discovery of undeclared ingredients that could cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. This highlights the importance of paying close attention to product recall notices, as they can involve a wide range of potential hazards.

Food safety experts often emphasize that while product recalls can be alarming, many are issued as precautionary measures and do not necessarily indicate an immediate or severe health risk.

However, consumers should always take recall warnings seriously and diligently follow the recommended steps to protect their health and safety. Ignoring a recall, even if it seems minor, could potentially lead to adverse consequences.

Walmart store exterior in Ellsworth, Maine.

Manufacturers frequently initiate recalls as a proactive step, aiming to address potential problems before they escalate into widespread issues. This proactive approach is designed to maintain consumer confidence and minimize potential harm.

Even if a recall is deemed purely precautionary, consumers are always advised to err on the side of caution and refrain from consuming the affected product. This simple step can significantly reduce the risk of any potential health issues.

Experts recommend keeping the recalled product sealed in its original packaging, if possible, to prevent accidental consumption. Furthermore, the product should never be given to pets or donated to food banks, as these actions could expose others to the potential hazard.

Anyone who has handled or opened a recalled item should thoroughly wash their hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds. This practice helps to remove any potential contaminants and minimize the risk of exposure.

Carefully review the recall notice for specific instructions on how to properly dispose of the affected product. These instructions may vary depending on the nature of the recall and the specific product involved.

In many cases, manufacturers will request that consumers return the recalled product to the store where it was originally purchased. Upon returning the product, consumers are typically entitled to a full refund of the purchase price.

Sometimes, in addition to or instead of returning the product, consumers may be instructed to discard it in a way that prevents anyone else from consuming it. This might involve throwing the product away in a sealed bag or otherwise rendering it unusable.