What was recalled
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has announced a significant recall involving magnetic wireless chargers manufactured under the Isla Rae brand. This action, issued on January 8, 2026, targets specific portable power devices that were marketed as convenient accessories for modern smartphones. The recalled items are magnetic wireless chargers designed to attach securely to the back of compatible phones using strong magnets, allowing users to charge their devices without the hassle of tangled cables or misaligned ports. These units function as power banks, storing electrical energy to be delivered to your phone on demand.
To help you identify if your device is part of this recall, it is important to look closely at the physical characteristics and labeling of the charger. The affected Isla Rae chargers were sold in three specific color variations: white, pink, and purple. While the exterior color might vary, the key identifier for safety purposes is the model number located on the side of the device. You should check the side panel of your charger for the marking "RM5PBM." This model number will appear directly below the technical specifications printed as "5000 mAh 3.7V." If your device bears this specific model number and specification text, it is part of the recalled batch, regardless of its color.
These products were distributed through major retail outlets owned by The TJX Companies. Specifically, they were sold at T.J. Maxx and Marshalls stores across the United States. If you purchased a magnetic wireless charger under the Isla Rae brand from either of these retailers, there is a possibility that your unit is included in this recall. It is worth noting that the current safety records indicate that no incidents have been reported associated with these chargers to date. However, the potential for harm remains serious enough to warrant immediate action and removal from consumer homes.
The scope of this recall focuses strictly on the Isla Rae branded magnetic wireless chargers matching the description above. Because these devices contain lithium-ion batteries, which are known to pose fire risks if they malfunction or explode, precise identification is crucial. Do not rely solely on the brand name; you must verify the model number RM5PBM and the 5000 mAh 3.7V marking to confirm whether your specific unit requires attention. If you cannot find these markings or if the device does not match this description, it may not be part of this specific recall, but you should always prioritize safety when dealing with lithium-powered accessories.
The hazard, explained
When we talk about a product being recalled for "fire and burn hazards," it can feel abstract until you understand the physical reality of what is happening inside the device. In this case, the issue centers on the lithium-ion battery contained within the Isla Rae magnetic wireless charger. These batteries are designed to store energy efficiently in a compact space, but they rely on precise internal chemistry to do so safely. When a defect occurs—whether in the manufacturing process or in the quality control of the materials—the electrical insulation inside the battery can fail. This failure leads to what experts call an "internal short circuit." Essentially, electricity begins to flow where it shouldn't, bypassing the normal pathways and generating intense heat extremely quickly.
As the temperature inside the sealed battery cell rises, the chemical components begin to break down. This process creates gas, which has nowhere to escape because the battery is tightly sealed to maintain its durability. The pressure builds up rapidly until the casing can no longer contain it. At this point, the battery may vent hot gases or, in more severe cases, rupture completely. This sudden release of energy is what leads to the explosion risk mentioned by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). It is not a slow leak; it is a rapid, violent event that happens in seconds.
The harm from this hazard comes from two main sources: thermal burns and potential shrapnel. Because the battery reaches extremely high temperatures during a failure, touching the device or being near it can cause serious skin burns. The plastic casing of the charger may also melt or crack, exposing hot internal components. Additionally, if the battery ruptures under pressure, small fragments of metal and plastic can be ejected at high speed. While no incidents have been reported with this specific Isla Rae model yet, lithium-ion failures in other contexts have shown that these projectiles can cause eye injuries or skin lacerations.
It is also important to note the fire risk beyond just the immediate burn area. Lithium-ion batteries contain flammable electrolytes. When a cell fails, these chemicals can ignite, creating a flame that is difficult to extinguish with water alone. This is why the recall instructions are so specific about disposal: even after you stop using the charger, if it has been damaged or is near failure, it remains a potential ignition source. Understanding this mechanism helps explain why the remedy isn't just a simple return—it requires careful handling to prevent the hazard from manifesting during transport or storage.
Who is most at risk
The primary group affected by this recall includes anyone who purchased the Isla Rae magnetic wireless chargers from T.J. Maxx or Marshalls stores between the relevant sales period and January 8, 2026. Because these devices were sold as convenient accessories for smartphones, they likely ended up in the hands of a broad demographic. However, the specific nature of the hazard—a lithium-ion battery that can explode while charging—creates distinct risks for different types of users based on how and where they use the product.
Individuals who charge their phones overnight or leave them plugged in for extended periods face a heightened risk. Magnetic wireless chargers are often designed for convenience, allowing users to simply snap their phone onto the back of the device. This ease of use encourages continuous charging habits. If the internal battery fails while connected to power and a phone, the resulting heat generation can occur unattended. For users who sleep with their phones nearby or keep them on nightstands, desks, or bedside tables, the proximity to flammable materials like bedding, curtains, or wooden furniture significantly increases the potential for fire damage.
People living in smaller spaces or multi-unit housing, such as apartments and dormitories, are also at greater risk. In compact living environments, charging stations are often clustered together or placed close to personal belongings. A fire starting from a malfunctioning battery pack in these settings can spread more rapidly due to the density of items like clothing, books, and electronics nearby. Additionally, residents in multi-unit buildings may face increased danger if the fire spreads to adjacent units through walls or shared ventilation systems, affecting neighbors who did not own the defective product.
While no incidents have been reported yet, certain groups are generally more vulnerable to burn injuries from battery failures. Children and elderly individuals may have slower reaction times or reduced mobility, making it harder to evacuate quickly if a device begins to smoke or emit heat. Furthermore, users with visual impairments might not notice early warning signs such as slight swelling of the battery casing or unusual warmth before the hazard escalates. Parents should be particularly cautious if these chargers are used in households with young children, as the magnetic attachment could potentially draw curiosity, leading to handling of a compromised device.
Finally, anyone using the charger while holding it against their body or placing it on soft surfaces like sofas or beds is at risk. The recall notice emphasizes that the chargers can explode, which implies not just fire but potential physical force and heat exposure. Users who engage in activities like gaming, reading, or video chatting while the phone is magnetically attached to the charger are directly exposed to the device. Keeping these items away from direct skin contact and hard, non-flammable surfaces until they are properly disposed of is a critical safety step for all owners.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Before you take any action or contact customer service, the most critical step is confirming whether your specific device is part of this recall. Because magnetic wireless chargers are widely available from many different manufacturers and sold across numerous retail chains, it is easy to assume a product is safe simply because it looks similar to others on the market. However, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has identified a very specific set of criteria for the Isla Rae products that pose a fire and burn hazard. You must verify every detail below to ensure your charger is included in this notice.
First, check the branding on the device itself. The recalled items are sold exclusively under the Isla Rae brand name. If your charger bears a different logo or manufacturer label, it is not part of this specific recall action, though you should always practice safe charging habits regardless. Next, look closely at the physical design. These are magnetic wireless chargers designed to attach magnetically to the back of your phone. They come in exactly three colors: white, pink, and purple. While these are common colorways for electronics, the combination of the brand name and these specific hues is a key identifier.
The most definitive way to confirm if you have a recalled unit is by inspecting the side of the charger for printed markings. You need to locate the model number and technical specifications. Look for the model number "RM5PBM". This alphanumeric code will be printed on the side of the device, directly below the text that reads "5000 mAh 3.7V." If you see this specific model number paired with those capacity and voltage markings, your device is part of the recall. If the markings are missing, faded beyond reading, or show a different model number, it is not the recalled item.
Finally, consider where and how you acquired the charger. These units were sold through The TJX Companies’ retail stores. Specifically, they were available at T.J. Maxx and Marshalls locations. If you purchased the device from a different retailer, an online marketplace like Amazon or eBay (unless it was a direct listing from these specific retailers), or a general electronics store, it is likely not part of this recall. However, if you bought it at T.J. Maxx or Marshalls and cannot find the original receipt, rely on the physical markings described above—the "RM5PBM" model number and the "5000 mAh 3.7V." label—as your primary proof of inclusion.
What to do — step by step
If you own an Isla Rae magnetic wireless charger, the most important thing you can do right now is stop using it entirely. Please do not plug it in, do not leave it charging your phone overnight, and do not use it while holding it. The hazard here is serious: these specific units have been found to potentially explode during normal operation, which creates an immediate risk of fire and severe burns. Even if your charger looks brand new, has never overheated, or seems to be working perfectly fine, the internal defect remains. There is no way to visually inspect it for safety, so treat every single unit as a potential danger until you have successfully processed its return. Your physical safety and the safety of your home are far more valuable than the cost of the charger, which is why immediate cessation of use is the critical first step. Once you have set the device aside in a safe, non-flammable location (like on a tile floor away from curtains or paper), you need to register for the recall to initiate your refund. This is not done through the store where you bought it, but through a dedicated recall management portal. Please go to https://www.recallrtr.com/powerbank and complete the registration form. This step is essential because it officially logs your unit as part of the safety program and provides you with specific instructions on how to receive your full refund. The manufacturer, via its partner Real Time Results, will handle the logistics of getting your money back once you have registered. Do not skip this online step; without registration, there is no clear path to reimbursement or proper disposal guidance. After you have registered, you must dispose of the physical device correctly. This is a crucial detail that many people miss: do not throw this recalled lithium-ion battery in your regular household trash. Do not place it in curbside recycling bins, and do not drop it into standard used battery recycling boxes found at retail stores like Home Depot or Lowe’s. Standard recycling streams are not equipped to handle potentially unstable lithium-ion cells, and mixing them with other waste can cause fires in transport vehicles or processing facilities. Instead, you should contact your local municipal household hazardous waste (HHW) collection center. Call them ahead of time to confirm they accept recalled lithium-ion batteries specifically. If your local HHW center does not accept them, reach out to your municipality for alternative guidance on safe disposal. This careful handling protects sanitation workers and the environment from preventable hazards. If you have questions about the process or need further assistance, you can contact the retailer directly. Since these chargers were sold by TJX companies, you can call their toll-free number at 888-256-1564, available from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday. You may also email powerbank@realtimeresults.net for support. Additionally, both T.J. Maxx and Marshalls have dedicated recall pages on their websites where you can scroll to the bottom of the page under "Product Recalls" to find more information specific to your purchase location. Taking these steps ensures you are not only reimbursed but also contributing to public safety by removing a dangerous product from circulation responsibly.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you own one of the recalled Isla Rae magnetic wireless chargers, your primary and most straightforward option is a full refund. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has determined that these devices pose an unacceptable fire and burn hazard due to the risk of explosion while in use. Because the defect involves the internal lithium-ion battery structure rather than a minor cosmetic or software issue, there is no repair available for this specific model. You cannot simply send it back to be fixed; instead, you must exchange the defective unit entirely for your money back.
To initiate this refund process, you need to register with the recall administrator, Real Time Results, rather than going directly to a store counter for an immediate cash return. This step is crucial because it ensures that the company tracks exactly how many units have been returned and allows them to provide you with specific instructions on safe disposal. You can start this process by visiting https://www.recallrtr.com/powerbank. On this page, you will find the registration form where you can enter your purchase details and contact information. Once you have completed the registration, the instructions provided on the site will guide you through the final steps of receiving your refund.
It is important to understand that the remedy here is strictly a refund, not a replacement with a new, safe charger. The company has not issued a "safe" version of this specific magnetic wireless charger for consumers to swap in. Therefore, if you wish to continue using wireless charging technology, you will need to purchase a different product from a different manufacturer after your refund is processed. The refund itself is full, meaning you should not be charged any restocking fees or required to pay for shipping back to the company, as the hazard lies within the product itself.
If you encounter any difficulties with the online registration process, or if you prefer to speak with a representative directly, you can contact the seller, TJX, through their designated recall channels. You may call the toll-free number at 888-256-1564. These customer service lines are open from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Central Time, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you can send an email to powerbank@realtimeresults.net for written assistance. If you purchased the item at Marshalls or T.J. Maxx, you can also find specific recall information and links by scrolling to the "Product Recalls" section at the bottom of their respective websites (m.marshalls.com/us/m/jump/topic/Product-Recalls/2400019 for Marshalls and m.tjmaxx.tjx.com/m/jump/topic/product-recalls/2400019 for T.J. Maxx). These online resources serve as a secondary confirmation of the remedy but do not replace the need to register at the primary URL listed above.
Please remember that while you wait for your refund, the charger must remain unused and safely stored away from flammable materials until you can dispose of it according to local hazardous waste regulations. Do not attempt to return it to a standard retail drop-off bin, as this could ignite a fire in the recycling facility. Your safety and financial protection are prioritized through this full refund process, so take the time to register promptly.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable to hesitate when asked to stop using a convenient gadget. The Isla Rae magnetic wireless charger was designed to be a seamless part of your daily routine, sticking effortlessly to the back of your phone without the clutter of extra cables. When an item works well and looks good, the instinct is to keep using it until it physically fails or stops charging altogether. However, in this specific case, ignoring the recall notice carries risks that extend far beyond a simple inconvenience or a dead battery.
The core issue here is not that the charger will stop working; it is that the internal lithium-ion battery can fail catastrophically while you are actively using it. When these specific units explode, they do not merely cease to function. They release significant thermal energy in a very short amount of time. Because the charger is designed to attach directly to your phone and, by extension, to your hand or pocket during use, the proximity to your body is the primary danger. A fire or burn hazard in this context means you could suffer immediate physical injury from flames, intense heat, or flying debris from the battery casing. This is not a theoretical risk reserved for warehouses; it is a direct threat to anyone holding the device.
Beyond the immediate threat of personal injury, there are significant secondary consequences. Lithium-ion batteries that fail in this manner often ignite surrounding materials. If you are charging your phone on a nightstand, a car seat, or a bedsheet, the recalled charger can easily set those items ablaze. This transforms a minor product defect into a potential home fire or vehicle fire event, putting not just you, but your property and loved ones at risk. While the CPSC notes that no incidents have been reported to date, the absence of reported injuries does not mean the hazard is absent; it simply means we have not yet seen the worst-case scenarios play out in public records. Relying on luck is never a safe strategy when dealing with high-energy battery failures.
Furthermore, continuing to use the device creates a psychological burden. You may find yourself constantly checking the temperature of your phone or feeling anxious about where you place the charger. This defeats the purpose of having a reliable tech accessory in the first place. The stress of potential failure outweighs the minor convenience of keeping a defective item. By acting now, you eliminate this hidden anxiety and protect your home from preventable fire risks. The goal is not to fear technology, but to ensure that every piece of it in your life is safe enough to use without worry. Ignoring this recall allows a known fire hazard to remain in your possession, turning a daily convenience into a potential emergency scenario.
Staying safe: broader tips
While this specific recall addresses a defect in a particular batch of Isla Rae magnetic wireless chargers, the incident underscores a broader reality about lithium-ion batteries, which power almost everything from our smartphones to our home security systems. These energy-dense cells are incredibly convenient, but they require a bit more respect and care than older battery technologies. One of the most critical steps you can take is to regularly check for product recalls, not just by waiting for news alerts, but by proactively visiting the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website or signing up for their email notifications. Manufacturers cannot always catch every flaw before it reaches your home, so staying informed is your first line of defense against potential hazards.
When it comes to charging devices, especially those with magnetic attachments that can easily be bumped or misaligned, proper handling is key. Always ensure that the charging cable and the device itself are not pinched under heavy furniture or trapped in tight spaces where heat cannot dissipate. Overheating is a common precursor to battery failure, so avoiding physical damage to the battery casing is essential. If you notice your charger becoming unusually hot to the touch, emitting strange odors, or swelling up, stop using it immediately. These are clear signs that the internal chemistry is destabilizing, and continuing to use the device significantly increases the risk of fire.
It is also wise to invest in safety devices that work silently in the background. Installing smoke alarms in every sleeping area and on every level of your home provides early detection in case a battery does ignite. Similarly, consider having a fire extinguisher rated for electrical fires (Class C) accessible in your kitchen or workspace. Knowing how to use it correctly can mean the difference between a minor incident and a major disaster. Additionally, avoid using chargers that are frayed, cracked, or otherwise damaged. Even if the battery inside is fine, compromised wiring can lead to short circuits, which generate intense heat and spark hazards.
Finally, dispose of old or recalled batteries responsibly. Never throw lithium-ion batteries into standard household trash or curbside recycling bins, as the crushing process can puncture the cells and cause them to ignite inside waste trucks or processing facilities. Instead, look for local hazardous waste collection events or specific drop-off locations at hardware stores and electronics retailers that accept used batteries. Proper disposal protects sanitation workers and the environment, ensuring that the energy stored in these devices is handled safely until it is no longer useful. By adopting these habits, you protect not only your home but also the community around you.