Kmart quilts send multiple customers to hospital with toxic chemical exposure
- Several customers reported severe health issues after using Kmart's Christmas-themed quilt covers, including headaches, throat swelling, and hospital visits.
- Mothers from Brisbane and Sydney described intense chemical odors emanating from the quilts, which they likened to diesel and toxic petrol.
- Kmart has initiated a voluntary recall of these products amidst rising complaints and health warnings, urging customers to return the quilts for a refund.
In Australia, a troubling trend has emerged surrounding a popular Christmas-themed quilt cover set sold by Kmart. Reports began surfacing from mothers who bought the Mr & Mrs Claus Reversible or Christmas Elf Reversible quilt cover, detailing severe health issues after exposure to these products. Sydney mother Holly experienced a strong chemical smell upon removing the sheets from their packaging, which resulted in her feeling light-headed and ultimately led to a hospital visit. She reported sharp pains in her shoulder and jaw that developed into dizziness and nausea, prompting her to call for an ambulance. Brisbane mother Eden had a similar experience after inhaling what she characterized as a 'toxic petrol' smell from the quilt covers. She faced throat swelling and severe breathing issues, which were confirmed through an X-ray revealing inflammation in her heart and lungs. Despite washing the sheets in hopes of eliminating the smell, both mothers ultimately discarded their washing machines due to the overwhelming chemical odor that lingered. Further investigations revealed that these experiences were not isolated, with other customers reporting similar adverse reactions after using the products. One Gold Coast mother recounted her husband experiencing excruciating pain, two weeks after they began using the quilt, which necessitated emergency medical assistance. Paramedics advised her to remove the quilt from the bed due to previously reported adverse health reactions to the same product. In response to the escalating health concerns, Kmart issued a voluntary recall on the affected quilt covers, allowing any customers who purchased them to return them for a full refund. They stated a public recall notice would follow, highlighting the seriousness of the situation and their commitment to customer safety.