Hobby Lobby Recalls Giraffe and Llama Plush Toys with Clips Due to Drowning Hazard; Manufactured by Starmatrix Group Drowning Hazard; Manufactured by Starmatrix Group

What was recalled

If you have recently purchased an above-ground pool from Hobby Lobby or any other retailer that carries the Sunneday and Blue Bay lines, it is important to pause and verify whether your specific model is part of this significant safety recall. Announced by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) on January 29, 2026, this action targets a broad range of Starmatrix Group-manufactured pools that are 48 inches tall or taller. The recall is not limited to a single item but encompasses entire product lines under the Sunneday and Blue Bay brands. Specifically, it includes all Sunneday Oasis Cottage models measuring 18 feet by 52 inches and 24 feet by 52 inches, as well as several variations of the Blue Bay Softsided Pool in both 15-foot-by-48-inch and 18-foot-by-52-inch dimensions. To determine if your pool is affected, you must look at the liner on the outside of the pool, where either the Sunneday or Blue Bay logo will be printed alongside the specific model number and UPC code.

The scope of this recall is defined by precise model numbers and their corresponding Universal Product Codes (UPCs), which serve as the definitive proof of inclusion. For those with Sunneday Oasis Cottage pools, the affected units are Model 70018 (18'x52") with UPC 850022858529, and Model 70024 (24'x52") with UPC 850022858536. For Blue Bay Softsided Pools, the recall covers a wider array of configurations: Model 358015W (15'x48", UPC 191127003583), Model 359015G (15'x48", UPC 191127003590), Model 360018W (18'x52", UPC 191127003606), Model 361018G (18'x52", UPC 191127003613), and Model 380018T (18'x52", UPC 191127003804). These pools were sold with a compression strap, also known as a reinforcing belt, that wraps around the exterior of the vertical support poles. While this strap is designed to maintain the structural integrity of the pool walls, its placement and design in these specific models have been identified as creating an unintended foothold. This detail is critical because the physical presence of this strap transforms what might otherwise be a slippery or difficult-to-climb surface into something accessible for small children.

While the official recall notice does not specify the exact number of units sold globally, it emphasizes that all models fitting the descriptions above are included regardless of when they were purchased. The pools were distributed through Hobby Lobby stores and likely other retailers carrying these specific Starmatrix Group products. The urgency of this recall stems from the design flaw in the compression strap itself; even if you remove the pool ladder, a child can still use the strap as a step to climb into the water. This makes the distinction between "having the pool" and "having a recalled pool" entirely dependent on matching your liner's printed model number and UPC to the list provided by the CPSC. If your pool matches any of these identifiers, it is part of this safety action.

The hazard, explained

At first glance, a soft-sided above-ground pool might seem like a harmless backyard feature, but this recall highlights a specific engineering flaw that turns a recreational item into a serious danger zone for young children. The core issue lies in the compression strap—also known as the reinforcing belt—that wraps around the exterior of the pool’s vertical support poles. These straps are designed to hold the pool’s fabric walls taut and maintain structural integrity, but on the affected Sunneday and Blue Bay models, their placement and design inadvertently create a ladder-like structure.

When a child approaches the pool, they may see these external straps as natural handholds or footholds. Because the pool walls are tall (48 inches or higher), a child who cannot climb over them can instead use the compression strap to step up along the outside of the vertical supports. This is particularly dangerous because it bypasses the primary safety measure most parents rely on: removing the ladder. In standard pool safety protocols, taking away the entry point is often considered sufficient to prevent access. However, in this case, the pool’s own exterior design provides an alternative route. A toddler or small child can literally climb up the outside of the pool frame using the straps as steps, gaining full access to the water from the ground level without ever needing a ladder.

Once inside, the risk becomes immediate and severe. Above-ground pools hold hundreds of gallons of water, and even a few inches of depth can be fatal for a young child who lacks the strength or coordination to right themselves if they fall in. The drowning hazard is not just about falling; it is about the ease of access. Because the footholds are external and stable, a child does not need to struggle against a slippery wall or climb over a high barrier. They can simply step up, pull themselves over the rim, and drop into the water. This mechanism effectively neutralizes the safety benefit of the pool’s height, making what should be an insurmountable barrier into a simple climbing frame.

This type of hazard is well-documented in pool safety research, which emphasizes that any feature allowing a child to bypass standard barriers—whether it be a foothold, a nearby tree, or a piece of furniture—can lead to tragic outcomes. The tragedy here is compounded by the fact that the danger is structural and inherent to the product’s design, not just a result of how it was set up. Parents may assume the pool is secure because there is no ladder attached, only to discover that the pool itself provides the means for entry. This underscores why the recall is critical: the hazard exists regardless of user behavior, making the repair kit essential to eliminate the foothold and restore the intended safety level of the product.

Who is most at risk

When evaluating the safety of any home product, particularly those involving water, it is crucial to understand that "risk" is not distributed evenly across all households. In this specific recall concerning Sunneday and Blue Bay above-ground pools manufactured by Starmatrix Group, the primary demographic under threat is young children. While these plush toys may seem like harmless decor, the underlying structural issue with the associated pools creates a scenario that is uniquely dangerous for toddlers and preschoolers. The core of the danger lies in the design of the pool’s exterior support system. The recalled models feature compression straps, also known as reinforcing belts, that wrap around the vertical support poles on the outside of the pool. For an adult, these straps are merely functional hardware—tight bands meant to hold the pool structure together. However, for a small child, these straps create an unintended and highly accessible ladder.

The vulnerability of young children in this context is twofold: physical capability and developmental awareness. Toddlers between the ages of one and four are naturally curious and possess developing motor skills that allow them to climb. The compression strap provides a firm, textured foothold that can support their weight. This is particularly insidious because the hazard exists independently of other safety measures. Even if a homeowner has removed the pool ladder or kept the gate locked, a child can still gain entry to the water by climbing the exterior poles using these straps. Once inside, the risk escalates rapidly. Water drowning is often silent and swift; it does not require splashing or crying for attention. A child can submerge completely in just inches of water before an adult realizes they are gone. The fact that there have been no reported incidents to date does not diminish the severity of this potential outcome—it simply means that, so far, luck has prevented a tragedy.

Furthermore, families with multiple young children or those who live in areas where supervision might occasionally lapse are at heightened risk. The recall notice emphasizes that children can access the pool even without the ladder, which means parents cannot rely on removing standard entry points as a sole safety strategy. Elderly individuals or adults with mobility issues are less likely to be the ones climbing into the pool, but they may be the caregivers responsible for monitoring young swimmers. If an adult is distracted by another child or household task, the structural flaw in the pool allows a younger sibling to slip away unnoticed. Therefore, the risk extends beyond just the climber; it impacts the entire family unit’s sense of security and the burden of constant vigilance required to keep them safe.

• Toddlers and Preschoolers (Ages 1–4): They are small enough to fit over the pool wall and strong enough to climb the exterior straps. Their lack of swimming ability and understanding of danger makes them the most vulnerable group.
• Children with Advanced Climbing Skills: Older children who have developed the coordination to scale vertical surfaces may also be at risk if they perceive the pool as a play area rather than a hazard.
• Families Relying on Ladder Removal: Households that mistakenly believe removing the ladder makes the pool safe are at specific risk, as this recall proves that entry is possible from the outside regardless of ladder presence.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

Before you take any action or contact the manufacturer, it is critical to confirm whether your specific pool falls under this recall. Because the affected units span two different brands and multiple sizes, a quick visual check of your pool’s liner is the most reliable first step. The CPSC has identified that all Sunneday and Blue Bay brand above-ground pools that are 48 inches tall or taller are included in this safety notice. If your pool is shorter than 48 inches, it is not part of this specific recall, but you should still verify the details below to be certain.

The most definitive way to identify a recalled unit is by looking at the liner on the outside of the pool. Manufacturers typically print the model information and the brand logo directly on this exterior surface. Look closely for the "Sunneday" or "Blue Bay" logo. If you see one of these brands, check the printed text next to it for the specific model number and description. The recall covers a precise list of models, so matching your unit to one of the following is essential:

• Sunneday Oasis Cottage 18'x52" (Model Number: 70018; UPC Code: 850022858529)
• Sunneday Oasis Cottage 24'x52" (Model Number: 70024; UPC Code: 850022858536)
• Blue Bay Softsided Pool 15'x48" (Model Numbers: 358015W or 359015G; UPC Codes: 191127003583 or 191127003590)
• Blue Bay Softsided Pool 18'x52" (Model Numbers: 360018W, 361018G, or 380018T; UPC Codes: 191127003606, 191127003613, or 191127003804)

If you do not have the original packaging or receipt, the UPC code printed on the liner serves as a unique digital fingerprint for that product. Even if the model number is worn or faded, the UPC can help Starmatrix identify your specific unit when you contact them. It is also worth noting that these pools are manufactured by Starmatrix Group and were sold through Hobby Lobby stores. If you purchased your pool from Hobby Lobby and it matches one of the descriptions above, it is highly likely to be part of this recall.

Physically, these recalled pools feature a compression strap, also referred to as a reinforcing belt, that wraps around the outside of the vertical support poles. This strap is the component that creates the hazard because it can act as a foothold. If your pool has this external strap system and meets the height and model criteria listed above, you should treat it as recalled immediately. Do not rely on the ladder’s presence or absence to determine safety; children can use these straps to climb in even if the ladder is removed.

What to do — step by step

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

If you have one of the recalled Sunneday or Blue Bay above-ground pools, it is important to know exactly what Starmatrix Group is offering to resolve this safety issue. The company has not issued a full cash refund for the purchase price of the pool itself. Instead, the primary remedy provided in this recall is a free repair kit. This distinction is crucial because it changes how you should approach the resolution process. You will not receive money back directly; rather, you will receive the physical components necessary to make the pool safe for continued use or to mitigate the specific hazard identified by the CPSC.

The repair kit is designed specifically to address the compression strap (also known as a reinforcing belt) that wraps around the outside of the vertical support poles. As noted in the recall details, this strap can create a foothold that allows children to climb into the pool even if the ladder has been removed. The free kit provided by Starmatrix is intended to eliminate or secure this foothold, thereby removing the drowning risk associated with the original design. By installing this repair kit, you are effectively modifying the pool’s exterior structure to prevent unauthorized access by young children, which is the core safety goal of this recall action.

To obtain this free repair kit, you must take proactive steps to contact Starmatrix directly. Do not attempt to return the product to Hobby Lobby for a refund, as they are the retailer and not the manufacturer responsible for the remedy in this specific case. You should reach out to Starmatrix using one of the following methods:

• Toll-Free Phone: Call (888) 254-2714. Representatives are available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday.
• Email: Send an inquiry to info@starmatrix.cn.
• Online Portal: Visit www.starmatrix.cn and click on "Product Recalls" at the top of the page, or go directly to https://www.starmatrix.cn/page-81484.html.

When you contact them, be prepared to provide specific details about your pool model to ensure you receive the correct parts. The recall affects models such as the Sunneday Oasis Cottage (18'x52" and 24'x52") and various Blue Bay Softsided Pool sizes (15'x48", 18'x52"). Having your UPC code handy, which is printed on the liner on the outside of the pool, will help expedite the process. They may ask for proof of purchase or specific model identifiers to verify that your unit is indeed part of this recall batch.

While you are waiting for the repair kit to arrive and be installed, Starmatrix advises interim safety measures. You are strongly encouraged to ensure that children cannot access the pool unattended at all times. Alternatively, if it is feasible for your climate and situation, you may choose to drain the pool completely until the repair can be installed. These temporary steps are not part of the final remedy but are critical immediate actions to keep children safe during the wait. The ultimate goal is to have the free repair kit installed so the pool can remain in place safely, rather than requiring you to purchase a new pool or dispose of the current one.

What can happen if you ignore it

When a recall is issued for something as seemingly benign as a backyard pool, it is easy to dismiss the urgency, especially when the manufacturer has not reported any specific incidents or injuries yet. It is natural to think, "It hasn't happened to me, so why should I worry?" However, ignoring this recall carries a grave and irreversible consequence: the potential for child drowning. The hazard here is not a minor mechanical failure that might ruin your afternoon; it is a structural design flaw that fundamentally alters how a child interacts with the water. By continuing to use the recalled Sunneday or Blue Bay pools without installing the free repair kit, you are leaving a dangerous foothold in place.

The specific danger lies in the compression strap, also known as the reinforcing belt, that wraps around the outside of the vertical support poles. For an adult, this strap is just part of the pool's structure. But for a young child who is learning to climb and explore, it acts as a convenient ladder rung. Even if you have removed the pool's official ladder, which is the standard safety advice given to many parents, the child can still use these straps to pull themselves up onto the pool's rim. Once they are over that edge, they can fall in or climb in at will. The height of these pools—ranging from 48 inches to 52 inches—is significant enough for a small child to gain access, yet low enough that they can easily maneuver around the obstacle.

Drowning is often quiet and rapid. It does not always look like the splashing scenes depicted in movies. A child can slip under the water and sink before anyone realizes they are missing. Because these pools are above-ground and often located in backyards, there may be a false sense of security among parents who believe that "above ground" means safer or less accessible than an in-ground pool. This is a dangerous misconception. The recalled design flaw specifically exploits this false sense of security by providing the very access point that barriers are meant to prevent.

If you choose to ignore the recall, you are essentially gambling with your child's safety against a known, documented risk. While no incidents have been reported to date, the absence of reports does not mean the risk is absent; it simply means that, so far, no one has been harmed. But in the context of water safety, we cannot afford to wait for a tragedy to validate the need for action. The consequence of inaction is that you remain liable for a preventable hazard. You are maintaining a product known to facilitate unauthorized access by children, thereby increasing the statistical likelihood of a drowning event occurring on your property.

Furthermore, ignoring the recall means you are missing out on a simple, free solution. Starmatrix is offering a repair kit at no cost to remove or modify this foothold. By doing nothing, you are not just accepting a risk; you are actively rejecting the manufacturer's offer to mitigate that risk. The longer you wait, the more ingrained the habit of using the pool becomes, making it harder to justify the temporary inconvenience of draining the water or setting up alternative barriers. Ultimately, the cost of ignoring this recall is not measured in money or time, but in the potential loss of a life that could have been protected by a simple, free repair.

Staying safe: broader tips

While this specific recall addresses a design flaw in certain compression straps, the underlying danger—unauthorized access to water by young children—is a universal challenge for pool owners and renters alike. The most effective way to prevent drowning is not relying on a single feature, but rather building layers of protection. This approach, known as "defense in depth," ensures that if one safety measure fails, another remains in place to keep your child safe.

First, consider the physical barriers around your pool. A four-sided isolation fence that completely separates the pool area from the house and yard is widely regarded by safety experts as the most effective deterrent. The gate should be self-closing and self-latching, with the latch placed high enough or shielded so that small children cannot reach or manipulate it. If you live in an apartment or do not have a dedicated yard, remember that any water container, including inflatable pools, hot tubs, or even large buckets, poses a risk. Always empty these containers immediately after use and store them upside down to prevent rainwater accumulation.

Secondly, never rely solely on the pool’s ladder as a safety device. As highlighted in this recall, structural features like compression straps can create footholds that allow children to climb into the water even when the ladder is removed. Instead, use pool alarms that detect movement in the water or on the gate, and consider installing rigid covers that meet strict safety standards. These devices provide an audible alert if someone enters the pool area or the water unexpectedly, giving you crucial time to respond.

Finally, proactive maintenance and awareness are key. Regularly inspect your pool equipment for wear and tear, especially straps, latches, and structural supports. If you notice any damage, repair it immediately rather than waiting for a potential incident. Additionally, stay informed by signing up for recall alerts from the CPSC and checking their website periodically. Knowledge is your best tool; understanding the risks and having a plan in place can make all the difference in keeping your family safe.