2 Million Infant Rockers, Swings Recalled Over Strangulation, Entanglement Hazards; 1 Death Reported

More than two million units of 4moms MamaRoo Baby Swings and RockaRoo Baby Rockers are being recalled because of entrapment and strangulation hazards. One infant death has been reported in connection with an affected product.

The problem with the recalled units is that the restraint straps tend to dangle below the seat if it's not being used, according to the announcement on the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website. This means that infants not using the unit and are crawling around the area can actually get entangled in the straps, thus posing the hazards.

There have been two reports of infants getting caught in the straps after crawling under the seat of an unoccupied MamaRoo unit, the agency noted. A 10-month old reportedly suffered bruising around the neck before being rescued, while another 10-month-old died of asphyxiation.

As such, those who have an affected unit are being advised to stop using it "immediately." Instead, they should put it in a place where crawling infants won't be able to access them.

The recall affects two million MamaRoo swing models that use a three-point harness, including MamaRoo versions 1.0 through 4.0 of model numbers 4M-005, 1026 and 1037.

"This recall includes only MamaRoo models that use a 3-point harness," the CPSC noted. "The MamaRoo model that uses a 5-point harness is not included in this recall."

Though there haven't been reports of incidents related to the RockaRoo rockers, some 220,000 units of RockaRoo Model 4M-012 are also being recalled. These swings and rockers were sold at BestBuy Baby and Target stores nationwide, as well as online via the company's website and Amazon.com.

The recall also affects 60,000 MamaRoo units and 10,000 RockaRoo units that were sold in Canada, where there haven't been reports or injuries or strangulation from using the products as of Aug. 9.

The company has provided instructions on how customers may locate the model number of their unit. Those who find that their unit is affected should contact 4moms to get a free strap fastener.

"(W)e are encouraging all owners of the recalled MamaRoo and RockaRoo models to participate in this recall and request a strap fastener that will prevent the straps from dangling under the swing/rocker when not in use," the company noted, adding that customers should get a free strap fastener "even if you don't have crawling children in the home."

Those who bought it second-hand should also check if the unit has a fastener installed. If not, they may request for the free strap fastener as well. And since the recall is also being done globally, the company has also provided information for customers outside the U.S. and Canada.

Customers may contact the company via its hotline at 877-870-7390, or by email at safetyandrecall@4moms.com. They may also obtain the strap fastener by registering for it here.