IKEA recalls Varmfront power banks over fire hazard risk

SINGAPORE: IKEA customers who bought certain Varmfront power banks are advised to immediately stop using them and seek refunds, the Swedish furniture brand said on Wednesday (Jul 17).

“It has come to our attention that certain Varmfront power banks may pose a fire safety risk, due to a manufacturing error,” said IKEA.

Customers who own a Varmfront power bank 10 400 mAh (model number E2038) with date stamp (YYWW) 2313, 2316, 2318 or 2319, or a Varmfront power bank 5 200 mAh (model number E2037) with date stamp (YYWW) 2318, 2319 or 2322, are advised to immediately stop using it, and contact IKEA for a refund.

This is a worldwide product recall that impacts all markets, an IKEA Singapore spokesperson said on Friday in response to CNA's queries. 

"We would encourage customers to check their local IKEA website for market-specific information regarding the product recall," the spokesperson said. 

In Singapore, the affected power banks can be returned to any IKEA store for a full refund. A receipt will not be required.

The error is isolated to those particular units, and Varmfront power banks with other date stamps are not affected by the recall, IKEA said.

Customers should check the printing on the backside of their power banks to confirm if their unit is affected.

A total of 36 affected units have been sold in Singapore, with no incidents having been reported thus far, IKEA added.

“IKEA products are risk assessed and thoroughly tested to make sure that they can withstand the tough test of everyday life at home, and that they comply with applicable requirements and regulation in all markets where IKEA operates,” said the company.

“IKEA apologises for any inconvenience this recall may cause.”