The Coleman Company Recalls Converta Camping Cots and Converta Camping Suspension Stretchers Due to Laceration and Amputation Hazards; Imported by Newell Brands

What was recalled

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has issued an important notice regarding specific camping gear sold under the Coleman brand, which is manufactured by The Coleman Company and imported by Newell Brands. This recall affects two distinct types of portable sleeping and seating equipment: the Coleman Converta Camping Cots and the Coleman Converta Camping Suspension Stretchers. These items are designed for outdoor enthusiasts who need reliable, lightweight, and adjustable resting solutions in the field, but certain models have been identified as posing a serious safety risk that requires immediate attention.

The specific units included in this recall are limited to those with particular model numbers printed on their hang tags. For the camping cots, the affected models are 2000003077 and 2000020282. For the suspension stretchers, the only affected model number is 2000020290. These model numbers are critical for identification because they distinguish the recalled items from other safe products in the Coleman lineup. The physical appearance of these units is also quite distinctive to help you identify them if you cannot locate the tag immediately. The fabric components of both the cots and stretchers come in either tan or white colors and feature the Coleman logo printed directly onto the material. The structural frame is constructed from black steel and includes adjustable features for both the seatbacks and leg positions, allowing users to customize their comfort level.

The scope of this recall covers a significant number of units sold to consumers across the United States. While the exact total count of affected units is not specified in the initial report, the presence of seven reported incidents involving finger injuries indicates that these products are widely distributed and commonly used. The timing of the sale is also relevant; this action was taken on June 26, 2025, suggesting that these items have been actively marketed and sold leading up to this date. Consumers who purchased these camping cots or suspension stretchers at major retailers, outdoor supply stores, or directly from Coleman during this period should be particularly vigilant. The hazard is not related to the durability of the fabric or the stability of the frame under weight, but rather a specific mechanical issue within the backrest fold mechanism that can cause serious injury if not addressed.

If you own any Coleman Converta camping cot or suspension stretcher, your first step is to verify whether your specific unit falls into these categories. Check the hang tag attached to the frame for the model numbers listed above. If your product matches one of these models, it is part of the recall and requires a repair. The manufacturer has acknowledged the issue and is providing a free repair kit to resolve the hazard, ensuring that your camping equipment remains safe for future use. It is essential to identify your model correctly before proceeding with any returns or repairs, as other Coleman products are not affected by this specific safety notice.

The hazard, explained

At the heart of this recall is a mechanical failure in the backrest fold mechanism of the Coleman Converta camping cots and suspension stretchers. To understand why this is dangerous, it helps to look at how these products are designed to function during normal use. The Converta line features adjustable seatbacks and leg positions, allowing campers to customize their comfort level for sitting upright or reclining fully. This adjustability relies on a hinge system that must lock securely into place to support weight and movement. However, in the recalled units, the geometry of this fold mechanism creates a significant pinch point when the backrest is being adjusted or when weight is applied to it.

When the backrest moves, the gap between the moving parts can close rapidly. If a consumer’s fingers are positioned near this hinge area while adjusting the angle—or if they accidentally brush against it while settling into the cot—the mechanism can trap skin and tissue. This is not merely a minor pinch; the force generated by the steel frame and the tension required to hold the adjustable backrest in place is sufficient to cause serious injury. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and various consumer safety organizations have long documented that hinge mechanisms on folding furniture and equipment are common sources of hand injuries, particularly when they lack adequate finger guards or safe clearance distances.

The specific harm described in this recall involves two distinct types of trauma: lacerations and amputations. Lacerations occur when the sharp edges of the steel frame or the crushing force of the hinge slice through the skin, potentially requiring stitches or surgical intervention. Amputation is a more severe outcome where the pinch point exerts enough pressure to sever part of a finger entirely, often at the joint. This risk is heightened because campers often adjust these cots while sitting on them or immediately adjacent to them, placing their hands directly in the line of force. The fact that seven incidents have already been reported, including two cases of fractured fingers, underscores that this is not a theoretical risk but an active physical danger.

It is important to note that this hazard exists even if the product appears to be functioning correctly from a distance. A cot may look stable and well-made, yet the internal tolerances of the hinge assembly may still allow for dangerous finger entrapment during adjustment. This is why visual inspection alone cannot guarantee safety; the risk is embedded in the design of the moving parts themselves. For anyone who has used similar folding gear, you may have experienced a minor pinch before, but the severity here suggests that the margin for error is too small to be considered safe for consumer use without modification.

Who is most at risk

The primary group affected by this recall includes anyone who currently owns or frequently uses the Coleman Converta camping cots and suspension stretchers. Because these items are designed for outdoor recreation, the people most likely to encounter this hazard are campers, backpackers, and families who enjoy weekend getaways or extended trips in national parks and wooded areas. If you have purchased a cot with model numbers 2000003077 or 2000020282, or a suspension stretcher with model number 2000020290, you fall directly into the circle of risk. These products are particularly popular among parents who want to provide comfortable sleeping arrangements for children in outdoor settings, as well as adults seeking portable rest solutions during festivals or tailgating events.

While any user can be harmed by the pinching mechanism, certain demographics face a higher degree of vulnerability due to physical characteristics and behavioral patterns. Children are especially at risk because their fingers are smaller and more delicate than those of adults. The fold mechanism on the backrest is designed to adjust the angle of the seat, but it creates a narrow gap where metal parts converge. For a child’s finger, this gap can act like a trap. When the backrest is moved quickly or even just allowed to snap back into position, the force generated can easily crush or slice the soft tissue of a small finger. The fact that two reports have already documented fractured fingers underscores how quickly a minor adjustment can turn into a serious orthopedic injury for younger users.

Elderly individuals and those with reduced hand strength or dexterity also face heightened risks. Adjusting the seatback requires a firm grip and precise control to manage the tension of the mechanism. For someone with arthritis, limited mobility, or weaker grip strength, the effort required to secure the backrest in place might lead them to release their hold prematurely or use excessive force that causes the mechanism to slip. This loss of control increases the likelihood that their fingers will be caught in the moving parts. Furthermore, older adults often have thinner skin and more fragile bones, meaning that even a pinch that might only cause a bruise on a younger person could result in a laceration or fracture for an older user.

Additionally, consider the context of use. These cots are often set up in uneven terrain or used in low-light conditions during dusk or dawn. When users are rushing to set up camp after a long day of hiking, or trying to adjust their sleeping position in the dark, their attention is divided. This lack of full focus on the mechanical parts of the cot significantly increases the chance of accidental contact with the pinch point. The combination of physical vulnerability and environmental distraction makes it crucial for all owners, regardless of age, to treat this mechanism with extreme caution until the free repair kit is installed.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

Identifying whether your camping gear is part of this specific recall requires a close look at both the physical product and its attached tags. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has identified three specific model numbers that are affected by this safety notice. If you own a Coleman Converta camping cot or a Coleman Converta camping suspension stretcher, your first step is to locate the hang tag attached to the frame of the device. This tag is crucial because it bears the printed model number that determines whether your item is included in the recall. Please note that general descriptions like "Coleman cot" are not enough; you must verify the specific alphanumeric code on that tag.

The recalled models are strictly defined as the Coleman Converta camping cots with model numbers 2000003077 and 2000020282. Additionally, the recall covers the Coleman Converta camping suspension stretchers, which carry the specific model number 2000020290. If your hang tag displays any other model number, your item is not part of this particular safety action. It is important to check each piece of equipment individually, as even within the same brand and product line, different manufacturing batches or variations may have distinct identifiers that are safe for use.

In terms of visual identification, the recalled cots and stretchers share a consistent design language that can help confirm you are looking at the right type of product. These units feature fabric that is either tan or white in color, with the Coleman logo clearly printed directly onto the material. The structural frame is made of black steel and includes adjustable components for both the seatbacks and leg positions. If your cot or stretcher matches these visual characteristics—specifically the combination of tan/white branded fabric and a black steel frame with adjustable features—it aligns with the physical description provided in the recall notice.

While the recall facts do not specify exactly when or where these items were sold, nor do they provide a price range, the presence of the specific model numbers on the hang tag is the definitive factor. Do not rely solely on the color or style, as manufacturers often change designs over time. Instead, treat the hang tag as your primary source of truth. If you cannot find the hang tag, or if it has been removed, you may need to contact The Coleman Company directly with any available serial numbers or purchase records to verify your specific unit’s status. Until you can confirm the model number matches one of the three listed above, it is safest to assume caution and follow the recall instructions.

What to do — step by step

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

If you have one of the recalled Coleman Converta camping cots or suspension stretchers, you do not need to panic about discarding a perfectly good piece of outdoor gear. The primary remedy offered by The Coleman Company is a free repair kit. This approach is designed to be both practical and environmentally responsible, allowing you to continue using your product safely without the hassle of returning heavy, bulky items or waiting for a complete replacement unit. By addressing the specific mechanical flaw directly, Coleman aims to resolve the laceration and amputation hazards associated with the backrest fold mechanism while keeping your gear in circulation.

To access this remedy, you must contact The Coleman Company directly. You have two convenient options for reaching them: you can call their toll-free number at 800-345-3278 or visit their dedicated online recall portal at https://recall.coleman.com/. When you reach out, whether by phone or web, a representative will guide you through the process of verifying that your specific model is indeed part of this recall and help you register for the free repair kit. It is important to note that these services are available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday, so please plan your outreach accordingly.

The repair kit itself includes all the necessary components to fix the pinch hazard, along with clear installation instructions. This means you do not need to seek out specialized tools or additional parts from a hardware store. The goal is to make the fix as straightforward as possible for the average consumer. Once you receive your kit, carefully follow the provided directions to install the new mechanism or modification that prevents the seatback adjustment from pinching your fingers. This step is crucial because it directly mitigates the risk of lacerations and amputations that have been reported in connection with these products.

While the recall notice specifically highlights the provision of a free repair kit, it does not explicitly mention options for refunds or full replacements. In such cases, the repair is the definitive remedy provided by the manufacturer. If you encounter any difficulties during the registration process or if the repair kit does not fully resolve your concerns, the customer service representatives at Coleman are your best resource for further assistance. They can clarify whether any alternative solutions are available on a case-by-case basis, but based on the current facts, the free repair kit is the standard and intended resolution for this recall.

Remember, the urgency of this remedy lies in the safety risks involved. With seven reports of finger pinching, including two instances of fractured fingers, taking action promptly is essential. Do not delay in contacting Coleman to secure your repair kit. By doing so, you ensure that your camping equipment remains safe for you and your family, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors without the worry of mechanical injury. The company’s willingness to provide these repairs free of charge underscores their commitment to consumer safety, and you should take full advantage of this opportunity to protect yourself from further harm.

What can happen if you ignore it

It is completely understandable why you might hesitate to stop using a beloved piece of gear. Perhaps the tent is already pitched, the weather forecast looks perfect, or simply replacing a cot feels like an unnecessary hassle in the moment. However, ignoring this recall is not merely a matter of convenience; it is a direct gamble with your physical safety. The hazard identified by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is not theoretical or minor. It involves a mechanical failure point—the backrest fold mechanism—that actively works against your body’s natural movement. When you adjust the seatback on these Coleman Converta cots and stretchers, that mechanism closes with significant force. If your fingers are positioned even slightly within the pinch point during adjustment, the device does not gently release; it clamps down.

The real-world consequences of continuing to use these items without the provided repair kit range from painful soft-tissue injuries to severe, permanent damage. The firm has already documented seven specific incidents where this pinching occurred. While seven reports may sound like a small number in the grand scheme of camping equipment sales, the severity of those injuries tells a much more alarming story. Among those reports were two cases of fractured fingers. A broken finger is not just a minor inconvenience; it causes immediate, sharp pain and requires medical intervention, casting, or even surgery depending on the complexity of the break. But fractures are only one possible outcome. The recall notice explicitly warns of lacerations and amputations. This means that if the mechanism catches skin and tendon with enough force, it can slice deeply into the flesh or, in worst-case scenarios, crush tissue to the point of requiring surgical removal of part of a digit.

Consider the context in which these injuries are most likely to happen. Camping is often about relaxation, but setting up or adjusting gear requires focus and dexterity. You might be tired after a long hike, distracted by children playing nearby, or simply moving quickly to get comfortable before nightfall. In these moments, your hands are frequently near the hinge points of the cot. Without the safety modifications included in the free repair kit, that pinching hazard remains active every single time you adjust the backrest. You might get away with it ten times, but mechanical pinch hazards do not discriminate based on luck. One slip, one moment of inattention, or one unexpected shift in fabric tension can result in an injury that sidelines you for weeks or months.

Beyond the immediate physical trauma, ignoring the recall carries secondary risks. If you sustain a laceration while camping, even a small cut near a pinch point can become infected quickly due to exposure to dirt, moisture, and bacteria in outdoor environments. Treating such an infection far from home is difficult and expensive. Furthermore, the psychological impact of a sudden injury while trying to relax outdoors can cast a long shadow over your experience, turning what should be a restorative getaway into a stressful medical emergency. The repair kit offered by The Coleman Company is designed specifically to mitigate this mechanical risk. By taking the time to install it, you are not just following instructions; you are actively removing a known threat from your camping routine. Continuing to use the recalled item without this modification means you are choosing to live with an unmitigated danger that has already caused broken bones and deep cuts for others. The inconvenience of a phone call or a short wait for a kit is negligible compared to the potential cost of an emergency room visit, lost time at work, or permanent disability. Please do not let convenience override caution; your hands are too valuable to risk on a fixable mechanical flaw.

Staying safe: broader tips

While this specific recall addresses a mechanical pinching hazard unique to the Coleman Converta line, the underlying principle of campsite safety applies to all outdoor gear and home environments alike. The most effective way to prevent injuries is to shift your mindset from "checking for defects" to "understanding mechanics." When you purchase any piece of furniture or equipment with moving parts—whether it is a folding cot, a recliner, or even a kitchen chair—take a moment to understand how the hinges and locks engage. Manufacturers design these mechanisms for convenience, but convenience often comes with pinch points. Learning where your fingers naturally rest when adjusting a backrest or leg position can help you avoid placing them in the path of closing metal joints. Always adjust these components slowly and deliberately, keeping your hands clear of the folding axes until the mechanism is fully locked into place.

Beyond mechanical awareness, environmental vigilance plays a crucial role in preventing accidents during use. When setting up camping cots or suspension stretchers on uneven ground, unstable surfaces can cause unexpected shifts in weight distribution, leading to sudden movements of adjustable parts that you might not anticipate. Ensure your gear is placed on level, stable ground before you sit or lie down. For families with children, this is especially critical; young children are often drawn to the novelty of adjustable mechanisms and may attempt to play with the hinges while they are in motion. Educate them early on which parts of their gear are "touch-only" when locked and which areas remain dangerous even when closed. Treating outdoor furniture with the same respect as indoor heavy furniture helps instill good habits that last a lifetime.

Finally, proactive maintenance and awareness of product lifecycles can significantly reduce risk. Regularly inspect the hardware on your gear for signs of wear, such as loose screws, frayed fabric around stress points, or corroded metal components that might fail unexpectedly. If any part feels loose or difficult to adjust, stop using the item immediately rather than forcing it into position. Additionally, consider registering your products with manufacturers upon purchase. This simple step ensures you receive direct notifications if a future safety issue arises, allowing you to address potential hazards before they result in injury. By staying informed and treating your gear with care, you transform from a passive consumer into an active participant in your own safety, ensuring that your time outdoors remains enjoyable rather than risky.