Risk of Strangulation Prompts Recall to Repair Matchstick Roll-Up Shades by International Merchandise; Sold Exclusively at Big Lots
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recall (2009-12-15). Hazards: strangulation. About 355,000 units in the US.
| Agency | U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission |
|---|---|
| Recall number | 10070 |
| Published | 2009-12-15 |
| Last updated | 2014-05-23 |
| Product category | Blinds, Shades & Cords |
| Products | Deluxe Matchstick Roll-up Shades |
| Firms | International Merchandise of Columbus, Ohio (importer) |
| Manufactured in | China |
| Units (US) | 355,000 |
| Hazard classes | strangulation |
| Remedy classes | repair, stop use |
| Sold | Big Lots nationwide from January 2009 through June 2009 for between $5 and $12. |
Description
This recall involves Deluxe Matchstick Roll-Up Shades with widths of 24", 36", 48" and 72" by 72" long in a "natural" color that are suspended by two cord loops called lifting loops or inner cords. The inner cords are attached to the head rail on one end and on the other end they go through the head rail and a cord lock and end in a looped cord that is used to raise and lower the shade. Both the head rail and bottom rail are made of bamboo and there is a warning label near the bottom that advises: "Young children can become entangled and strangle in cord or bead loops."
Hazard
Strangulations can occur if the lifting loops slide off the side of the blind and a child's neck becomes entangled on the free-standing loop or if a child places his/her neck between the lifting loop and the roll-up blind material. Also, children can become entangled in the looped pull cord.
Remedy
Consumers should immediately stop using the roll-up shades and contact the Window Covering Safety Council for a free repair kit.
Incidents and injuries
No incidents or injuries have been reported.
Machine access
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Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recall notice (US Government work). Not affiliated with or endorsed by CPSC. Structured by Data Foundry (product-recall-structuring@2); last changed 2026-09-28. Always confirm with the agency notice.