What was recalled
If you have recently visited a Five Below store, or perhaps browsed their website for whimsical home decor, you may have encountered the "Room2Room LED Iridescent Bear Lights." These charming nightlights were designed to add a touch of soft, shimmering ambiance to bedrooms, dorm rooms, or offices. However, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a recall for these specific items due to serious safety concerns. This action was officially announced on April 3, 2025, signaling that Five Below is proactively removing these products from circulation to protect consumers from potential harm.
The product in question is specifically identified as the Room2Room LED Iridescent Bear Light. Visually, these lights are quite distinctive and were likely popular for their aesthetic appeal. They measure approximately 7.5 inches tall by 9.3 inches wide, giving them a substantial presence on a shelf or nightstand. The design features a USB plug equipped with an on/off switch, which allows users to easily control the lighting without needing to unplug the device entirely. It is this specific power switch mechanism that has raised alarms among safety regulators.
To help you identify whether your particular bear light is part of this recall, please look closely at the bottom of the unit. There will be a sticker affixed there that clearly displays the product name "Room 2 Room," along with the description "LED Iridescent Bear Light." Crucially, you must check for the model number, which is listed as "LD-0030" on this label. If your bear light lacks this specific model number or does not have this exact labeling, it may not be part of this specific recall batch, but it is always wise to verify with the manufacturer.
In addition to the product itself, the packaging provides another layer of identification. The Universal Product Code (UPC) printed on the bottom of the box should read "1922340368444." While the recall notice does not specify the total number of units sold or currently in circulation, the fact that there have already been 28 reports of incidents suggests a significant distribution. These items were widely available at Five Below retail locations across the United States and through their online store. If you purchased this item regardless of when it was bought, it is important to treat it with caution until you can confirm its status or receive instructions for return.
The decision to recall this product stems from a thorough review by Five Below and the CPSC after receiving multiple reports of the USB cord overheating and melting. This is not a minor defect; it represents a failure in the electrical components that could lead to dangerous situations. By identifying the exact model, UPC, and physical characteristics, consumers can quickly determine if their nightlight falls under this safety alert. It is better to be overly cautious with electrical devices that come into contact with flammable materials like bedding or walls.
The hazard, explained
When you first see the Room2Room LED iridescent bear lights, they seem like a harmless addition to any bedroom or dorm room. However, the danger lies not in the soft, glowing LEDs themselves, but in the electrical pathway that powers them. Specifically, the issue is located on the USB cord where the power switch is integrated. Under normal circumstances, this switch allows you to turn the light on and off without interrupting the power source. But in these recalled units, the internal components of that switch are not designed to handle the electrical current safely over time. As electricity flows through the switch to keep the bear illuminated, friction and resistance generate heat. Because the materials used in this specific model do not dissipate that heat effectively, the temperature inside the switch housing can rise rapidly beyond safe limits.
This overheating is not just a minor inconvenience; it is a physical failure of the device’s insulation. As the internal temperature climbs, the plastic casing and the surrounding wiring begin to soften, warp, and eventually melt. This process transforms the cord from a simple power conduit into a direct heat source. The melted plastic can expose live electrical wires that are no longer insulated, creating two distinct pathways for harm. First, if you touch the overheated switch or the melted section of the cord while it is plugged in, your skin can suffer immediate thermal burns. This is exactly what happened in six documented incidents where users reported burning their fingers while interacting with the device.
Second, and perhaps more dangerously, the combination of exposed wires and extreme heat creates a significant risk of ignition. When the plastic melts away from the copper conductors, it can spark or catch fire if it comes into contact with flammable materials nearby. In the case of these bear lights, which are often placed on nightstands, desks, or bedsides, the surrounding environment is frequently filled with combustible items like bedding, curtains, or wooden furniture. This explains the reports of property damage where the heat from the cord burned through a wall or scorched a headboard. The fire hazard is not abstract; it is the direct result of electrical components failing under load and igniting nearby materials. Even if a full-blown house fire does not occur, the risk of severe personal injury from burns remains high because the device is designed to be handled frequently, putting users’ hands in direct proximity to the failure point.
To understand why this happens, it helps to look at how USB-powered devices generally work. They draw power directly from a computer port or wall adapter. If the switch controlling that flow is built with substandard thermal resistance, it acts like a bottleneck, trapping energy as heat. In higher-quality electronics, materials are chosen specifically to withstand this stress for thousands of hours. In this recall, those safety margins were insufficient. The result is a device that starts warm during use and can become hot enough to melt plastic and ignite fabric in a relatively short period, turning a decorative toy into a genuine fire and burn hazard.
Who is most at risk
While this recall affects anyone who purchased the Room2Room LED Iridescent Bear Lights from Five Below, the nature of the hazard creates a specific set of vulnerabilities that go beyond simple property damage. The core issue is a mechanical failure in the USB power cord’s on/off switch, which can overheat and melt. This is not merely an inconvenience; it is an active fire and burn hazard. Therefore, the people most at risk are those who interact with these lights in close proximity to their bodies or place them in areas where they might be left unattended for long periods.
The most immediate physical risk falls on anyone who frequently toggles the switch. The recall data indicates that six reports involved burns to fingers, directly linking the hazard to user interaction. For children, this is particularly concerning because their skin is thinner and more sensitive than adults’, meaning they can suffer severe burns from brief contact with an overheated switch. Children are also less likely to recognize the early warning signs of electrical failure, such as a faint smell of burning plastic or slight discoloration, until significant damage has already occurred. Furthermore, young children may place these decorative lights in bedrooms or play areas where they sleep or spend extended time, increasing their exposure duration.
Elderly individuals or those with limited mobility also face heightened risk. If the switch fails while they are trying to turn the light off before bed, a sudden burst of heat could cause them to jerk away, potentially leading to secondary injuries like falls. Additionally, if the melting component ignites surrounding materials, an elderly person might have slower reaction times or physical limitations that make escaping a small fire more difficult than for a younger, able-bodied adult.
Another group at significant risk is anyone who uses these lights in enclosed spaces, such as nightstands, bookshelves, or behind curtains. The two reports of property damage included burns to walls and headboards, suggesting that the heat generated by the faulty switch can transfer to nearby combustible materials. If a light is plugged in and left on for hours—perhaps while its owner is sleeping—the risk of the melted plastic igniting adjacent furniture or bedding increases dramatically. This makes the location of the product just as critical as the age of the user. Households with pets are also at risk, as curious animals might chew on the USB cord or nudge the bear into a position where the overheated switch contacts flammable fur or fabric.
Ultimately, anyone who values their safety and property should treat this recall with urgency. The hazard is not theoretical; it has already caused personal injury and home damage. By understanding who is most vulnerable, we can prioritize the immediate removal of these lights from our homes, protecting not just our wallets, but our physical well-being.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Before taking any action, it is essential to confirm whether your specific bear light falls under this recall. Because these decorative items are often sold as impulse buys or fun room decorations, they might be tucked away in a closet, stored for a later date, or still sitting on a shelf. The good news is that Five Below has made the identification process relatively straightforward by including clear labeling on both the product itself and its original packaging.
Start by looking at the physical bear light. These units are designed to look like iridescent bears and measure approximately 7.5 inches tall by 9.3 inches wide. They feature a USB plug with an integrated on/off switch, which is the critical component involved in this recall. Turn the bear over to examine the bottom surface closely. You should find a sticker affixed there that contains vital identification details. Look specifically for the text "Room 2 Room," "LED Iridescent Bear Light," and the model number "LD-0030." If you see these exact phrases and the model number, your unit is part of this recall.
If you still have the original box or packaging where you purchased the item, check the bottom of that package as well. The Universal Product Code (UPC) printed there is another reliable way to verify the product. Look for the UPC code "1922340368444." Having this number can be particularly helpful if you need to contact customer service or visit a store, as it removes any ambiguity about which version of the bear light you own.
It is also worth noting where and when these items were sold. This recall applies specifically to the "Room2Room LED Iridescent Bear Lights" distributed by Five Below. While the recall notice does not specify an exact range of purchase dates, it is safest to assume that any bear light matching the physical description and model number found in Five Below stores or through their direct channels is subject to this safety alert. If you are unsure whether a similar-looking item from a different brand is included, remember that this recall is specific to Five Below's product line with the LD-0030 model number.
If you cannot find the sticker on the bottom of the bear or the UPC on the box, but you have a USB-powered iridescent bear light that resembles the description, it is better to err on the side of caution. Given that the hazard involves overheating and melting components, verifying the model number is the most critical step. If you cannot positively identify the model as LD-0030 or the UPC as 1922340368444, you may not have a recalled unit, but if there is any doubt, contacting Five Below customer service with photos of your item is the best way to get clarity.
What to do — step by step
If you own the Room2Room LED Iridescent Bear Lights, your first and most critical action is to stop using them immediately. The risk here is not theoretical; the power switch on the USB cord can overheat to the point of melting, creating a genuine fire and burn hazard. There is no safe way to continue using these lights while keeping your home secure. Please unplug the device from any power source right away. Do not attempt to fix the overheating issue yourself by replacing the cord or opening the bear’s casing, as this can expose you to electrical dangers or further damage the unit. Instead, treat the recalled item as a potential fire starter that needs to be removed from your living space.
Once the lights are unplugged and set aside safely, you have two clear paths to resolve the issue: returning them in person or contacting customer service for mail-in processing. Your choice depends on your convenience and whether you prefer immediate cash or store credit versus a mailed check. If you choose to return the item to a physical location, you can take it to any Five Below store. You do not need to hunt down the original receipt; proof of purchase is not required to receive a full refund. When you bring the bear back to the store, you will be refunded in one of three ways: cash, store credit, or a refund to the original credit card used for the purchase. This in-person route is often the fastest way to get your money back and physically remove the hazard from your home.
If you cannot visit a store or prefer to handle this remotely, you can contact Five Below customer service directly. You may call their toll-free number at 844-452-3569 between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday, or reach out via email at Recalls@FiveBelow.com. When you submit your claim through this channel, you will be asked to provide a photo of the light with the cord cut off. This specific requirement ensures that the defective product cannot be reused or resold. Once Five Below reviews and approves your submission, they will send you either a check or store credit by mail. While this method takes longer than an in-store return, it is equally valid and fully supported by the recall terms.
After you have secured your refund or store credit, please dispose of the recalled bear lights in your regular household trash. Do not donate them to thrift stores, give them to friends or family, or attempt to sell them online. These items remain dangerous regardless of who holds them. By properly discarding the unit and ensuring it does not re-enter the consumer market, you protect not only yourself but also your community from the risk of burns or property damage. If you need more detailed information during this process, you can visit Five Below’s dedicated recall page at https://www.fivebelow.com/info/five-below-recalls-led-iridescent-bear-light or navigate to the "Product Recalls" section at the bottom of their main website.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have been holding onto those cozy Room2Room LED iridescent bear lights, the good news is that Five Below has set up a straightforward and consumer-friendly remedy to make things right. Because this recall involves a serious fire and burn hazard caused by the USB cord’s power switch overheating, there is no repair option available. You cannot simply send the switch back for replacement or fix the unit yourself. Instead, the company is offering a full refund. The goal here is to get you your money back quickly and safely while ensuring the defective product is removed from your home entirely.
The most convenient way to resolve this issue is to take the recalled bear light directly to any Five Below store location. When you bring it in, you do not need to dig through your papers for a receipt or proof of purchase. The company has explicitly stated that proof of purchase is not required to receive a full refund. This is a significant relief, as many people tend to toss receipts after making small purchases. At the register, you will be able to choose how you want your refund processed based on your original payment method and preference. If you originally paid with a credit card, you can have the refund issued back to that same card. Alternatively, Five Below offers the option of receiving cash or store credit at the point of return. This flexibility allows you to decide whether you prefer immediate cash in hand, a reloadable store credit for future shopping trips, or a direct reversal to your bank account via the original card.
If you are unable to visit a physical store, or if you prefer a mail-in process, Five Below provides an alternative route through their customer service team. You can initiate this by contacting them at 844-452-3569 between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday, or by emailing Recalls@FiveBelow.com. To complete the refund via this method, you will need to submit a clear photo of the recalled light with the cord cut. This specific requirement—that the cord is cut—is crucial for safety reasons. It ensures that the defective USB component cannot be accidentally reused or resold, effectively neutralizing the hazard before the item leaves your possession. Once Five Below receives and verifies your photo submission, they will mail you a check or provide store credit. Please note that while you are waiting for your refund, you must stop using the lights immediately and dispose of them in your household trash after ensuring the cord is cut.
The process is designed to be as frictionless as possible because safety should never be complicated by bureaucracy. Whether you choose the in-store route for immediate gratification or the mail-in option for convenience, the outcome is the same: you get your money back, and you eliminate a potential fire risk from your home. Take advantage of these options promptly to ensure both your financial peace of mind and your physical safety.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is easy to look at a decorative item like the Room2Room LED iridescent bear light and see only its aesthetic appeal—the gentle glow, the cute shape, and the convenience of USB power. However, ignoring this recall means continuing to use a device that has already been identified as a source of significant danger. The core issue is not just that the light might stop working; it is that the internal components are failing in a way that generates dangerous levels of heat. When you leave a recalled product plugged in, even if it appears to be functioning normally on the surface, you are allowing a compromised power switch to operate under conditions it was not designed to handle safely.
The real-world consequences of ignoring this warning are grounded in the specific failures that have already been reported by Five Below and consumers. The firm has documented 28 separate incidents where the USB cord’s power switch overheated and melted. This is not a theoretical risk; it is a recurring mechanical failure. When plastic components melt due to excessive heat, they can release toxic fumes and create sharp, jagged edges that are difficult to handle safely. More immediately, this heat buildup poses a direct threat of burn injuries. Six individuals have already reported burning their fingers while interacting with these units, highlighting how quickly a minor inconvenience can turn into a painful physical injury.
Beyond personal injury, there is the risk of property damage that can escalate rapidly. Fire hazards do not always result in large, uncontrolled blazes immediately; often, they begin with localized charring or smoldering that can ignite nearby flammable materials. In this recall, two specific instances of property damage have been reported: burns to a wall and burns to a headboard. These examples illustrate the proximity risk. If the light is left plugged in near bedding, curtains, or painted drywall, the heat from the melting switch can transfer to these surfaces. A burned headboard is not just a repair cost; it is evidence that the device has reached temperatures capable of damaging structural elements of your home and potentially starting a fire that could spread beyond the immediate vicinity of the product.
If you choose to ignore the recall, you are essentially gambling with both your personal safety and your property. The remedy offered by Five Below—a full refund—is straightforward and requires no proof of purchase, yet many consumers hesitate to return items they still find useful visually. However, the utility of a decorative light does not outweigh the verified risk of electrical failure. By continuing to use the product, you are maintaining a source of ignition in your home without any compensating safety features. The melt damage observed in reported incidents suggests that the failure is progressive; what might start as a warm switch could eventually lead to exposed wiring, short circuits, or open flames. Ignoring the recall does not make the defect disappear; it only delays the inevitable point at which the device may fail catastrophically, leaving you to deal with injuries or fire damage that were entirely preventable through simple return.
Staying safe: broader tips
While this specific recall addresses a defect in the Room2Room LED Iridescent Bear Lights, the underlying issue—electrical components overheating due to switch failure—is a common thread in many consumer electronics. To keep your home safe from similar hazards, it is helpful to understand why these failures happen and how simple habits can prevent them. Most modern electronic devices are designed with multiple safety layers, but those layers can fail if the product is damaged, misused, or manufactured with a flaw. By treating every plugged-in device with respect for its electrical nature, you significantly reduce your risk of fire or injury.
One of the most effective ways to prevent overheating in any electronic device is to ensure proper ventilation and avoid physical stress on cords. Many consumers inadvertently strain USB cables by bending them sharply near the plug or switch, which can damage internal wiring over time. This wear and tear creates resistance, leading to heat buildup that may eventually melt the plastic casing or ignite nearby materials. Always route your cords gently, ensuring they are not pinched under furniture or twisted tightly around objects. If you notice any discoloration, warping, or unusual warmth on a plug or cord, unplug it immediately and stop using it. Heat is the earliest warning sign of an electrical problem, and ignoring it can lead to catastrophic failure.
Another critical aspect of home safety is awareness of your environment’s electrical load. USB ports and power strips are convenient, but they have limits. Plugging too many high-draw devices into a single outlet or using non-certified adapters can cause circuits to overheat. Look for certification marks from recognized testing laboratories on all your electronics and charging accessories. These marks indicate that the device has undergone safety testing for electrical integrity. Additionally, consider installing smoke detectors in every sleeping area and on every level of your home. While smoke alarms are standard safety equipment, their effectiveness depends on regular maintenance. Test them monthly and replace batteries at least once a year to ensure they will alert you quickly if a fire does start.
Finally, staying informed about product safety is an empowering way to protect your household. Manufacturers and government agencies like the CPSC issue recalls not just for defective items, but when potential risks are identified before they cause widespread harm. Make it a habit to check the CPSC website or sign up for email alerts from major retailers where you shop. When you buy new electronics, register them with the manufacturer if possible; this ensures you will be contacted directly if a safety issue arises. By combining vigilant daily habits with proactive information tracking, you create a robust defense against household hazards, ensuring that your home remains a safe and comfortable place for everyone.