TJX Recalls Haining Degao Benches Due to Fall Hazard

What was recalled

In the ongoing effort to maintain safety standards across American homes, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a significant recall involving a specific line of furniture sold under the Haining Degao brand. This action, announced on June 8, 2023, targets benches that were marketed as part of the "Haining Degao Home Furnishings Co., Ltd." product line. While these items may appear to be standard, decorative seating options found in many living rooms and entryways, they have been identified as posing a serious structural risk. The recall is not limited to a single retail outlet; rather, it encompasses units distributed through major national retailers, specifically Marshalls and T.J. Maxx, which are both part of the TJX Companies family. If you recently visited either of these stores or shopped with them online, there is a possibility that one of these benches may be in your home.

To help you identify whether you possess the affected item, it is important to look closely at the physical characteristics and labeling of the bench. The recalled product is a bench featuring a cushioned top available in five distinct colors: navy, gray, cream, white, and yellow. Structurally, the bench measures 42 inches in length, 15.5 inches in depth, and 17.5 inches in height. A key distinguishing feature of this model is its construction method; it consists of a cushioned seat supported by four wooden legs that are designed to screw directly into the base of the bench. This specific assembly method is central to the safety concerns that prompted the recall.

If you examine the underside of your bench, you should look for a label printed with the manufacturer’s name, "HAINING DEGAO HOME FURNISHINGS CO., LTD," along with the origin marking "MADE IN CHINA." The presence of this label confirms the product's identity as part of the recalled batch. While the CPSC record does not specify the exact number of units sold or distributed globally, the scope of the recall is substantial enough to warrant immediate attention. These benches were widely available in stores and online, meaning that thousands of consumers may have purchased them unknowingly. It is crucial to verify your possession of this specific item by checking for the brand name, the leg attachment style, and the manufacturer label, as these details are unique to the recalled product line.

The decision to recall this particular bench stems from a pattern of structural failures reported during use. The manufacturer has documented instances where the wooden legs either broke off or detached completely from the cushioned top while a consumer was seated on the bench. This is not merely a cosmetic defect; it represents a fundamental failure in the product’s integrity that can lead to sudden collapse. By identifying the exact product details—brand, dimensions, color options, and labeling—you can determine if your home contains this specific hazard. Taking the time to inspect your furniture now can prevent potential accidents and ensure that you are prepared to take the necessary steps for a full refund.

The hazard, explained

When you sit on a piece of furniture like the Haining Degao bench, your body weight is not just resting on the cushion; it is being transferred downward through the connection points between the seat and the legs. In this specific design, those critical connections are screws that fasten four wooden legs directly into the base of the bench. The fundamental engineering failure here lies in the integrity of these attachment points. When a consumer sits on the bench, they exert significant pressure on the structure. If the screws are not sufficiently anchored, or if the material surrounding the screw holes has weakened or failed to hold firm under load, the mechanical bond can snap.

The CPSC report indicates that this is not a rare occurrence for this specific model. The manufacturer has received 21 reports where the legs literally broke off or detached completely from the bench top while someone was seated on it. This is a sudden, structural collapse rather than a slow wear-and-tear issue. When the legs detach, the support system vanishes instantly. The result is that the person sitting on the bench loses their base of support and falls to the floor. Because this often happens while a person is in the middle of sitting down or standing up, they may not have their arms positioned correctly to catch themselves.

The injuries resulting from this type of fall are consistent with what we see in many furniture-related accidents: bruises, scratches, and back strains. Bruises occur because the body hits the hard floor or the bench itself with force. Scratches can happen if the legs or the floor surface are rough during the fall. However, the most concerning aspect is the risk of back strain. When someone falls unexpectedly from a seated height of about 17.5 inches, their spine may twist or jolt in an unnatural way as they try to protect themselves. For older adults or individuals with pre-existing back conditions, even a low-height fall can cause significant pain and injury that requires medical attention.

It is important to understand that this hazard is latent, meaning the bench might look perfectly fine on the outside. There may be no visible cracks in the wood or obvious signs of weakness until the moment weight is applied. The "HAINING DEGAO HOME FURNISHINGS CO., LTD." label on the bottom does not guarantee structural safety under dynamic load. The danger is in the hidden connection between the leg and the seat, which can fail without warning during normal use.

Who is most at risk

The Haining Degao benches recalled by the Consumer Product Safety Commission are designed for general seating in homes, retail spaces, or waiting areas. While any user of these specific models faces a genuine danger due to the structural failure of the legs, certain groups of people are disproportionately vulnerable to the severity of the resulting injuries. The primary risk is not just the fall itself, but the nature of the impact and the ability to mitigate it.

Elderly individuals represent one of the most critical at-risk populations. As we age, bone density naturally decreases, a condition known as osteoporosis, which makes fractures significantly more likely even from minor falls. The recalled benches measure 17.5 inches tall, a height that may seem standard but can be precarious if the seat gives way unexpectedly. For an older adult, losing balance while seated can lead to hip fractures, wrist breaks from trying to catch themselves, or serious head trauma. Furthermore, the reports of back strains indicate that even without a fall to the ground, the sudden jolt of a leg detaching can cause significant spinal injury. Seniors often have slower reflexes and less muscle mass to absorb shock, meaning a minor mechanical failure can result in long-term mobility issues or hospitalization.

Children, while not explicitly mentioned in the injury reports as the primary victims, are also at heightened risk due to their physical development. The bench is 42 inches long, offering ample space for multiple people to sit, but its stability relies entirely on the integrity of the four wooden legs screwed into the base. Children may shift their weight dynamically—leaning back, twisting, or standing up abruptly—which places uneven stress on the leg attachments. If a leg breaks during such movement, a child’s smaller frame offers less protection against impact. Their developing bones are more flexible but can still sustain serious injuries from falls onto hard floors. Additionally, children may not fully understand the danger of a wobbly seat and might continue to use it, increasing their exposure to the hazard.

Individuals with mobility challenges or those who rely on furniture for support during transfers are also particularly vulnerable. The recall notes that injuries occurred when consumers were seated at stores, suggesting these benches are used in public or semi-public spaces where users may not be familiar with the specific stability of the item. For someone using a cane, walker, or wheelchair to transfer onto the bench, the sudden collapse of a leg could prevent them from regaining balance. The lack of stable armrests on this model means there is no secondary support to hold onto during a failure event. This group is at risk not only of physical injury but also of being stranded or unable to safely dismount after the incident.

Finally, anyone using these benches in high-traffic areas faces compounded risks. The 21 reported incidents occurred in store settings, where people are often distracted, carrying items, or moving quickly. In such environments, a fall from the bench could lead to secondary collisions with shelves, display units, or other people, escalating the potential for injury beyond what might occur in a quiet home setting. Understanding who is most at risk helps emphasize why immediate cessation of use is critical, regardless of age or physical ability.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

If you recently purchased a bench from T.J. Maxx or Marshalls and are wondering whether your specific piece is part of this safety recall, careful inspection is necessary. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has identified a very specific set of criteria that define the affected products. Because these benches were sold under the brand name "Haining Degao," the first thing you should look for is branding information. Check the bottom of the bench thoroughly. You need to find a label that explicitly prints "HAINING DEGAO HOME FURNISHINGS CO., LTD." along with the text "MADE IN CHINA." If this specific manufacturer label is missing, or if it lists a different company name, your bench is likely not part of this particular recall.

Beyond the branding, you must verify the physical dimensions and construction style of the bench. The recalled items are benches that feature a cushioned top supported by four wooden legs. A critical detail to check is how these legs are attached; in the recalled units, the legs screw directly into the bench structure. If your bench has different attachment methods, such as welded metal joints or non-wooden supports, it does not match the description of the recalled product. Furthermore, you should measure the bench to ensure it matches the exact size specifications provided by TJX. The recalled benches measure precisely 42 inches in length, 15.5 inches in depth, and 17.5 inches in height. Even slight deviations in these measurements may indicate that your item is a different model.

Another helpful identifier is the color of the cushion top. While colors can fade over time, the recalled benches were originally sold in one of five specific shades: navy, gray, cream, white, or yellow. If your bench is a completely different color, it may not be included in this recall, though you should still verify the other criteria. Finally, consider where and when you purchased the item. These benches were sold at Marshalls and T.J. Maxx stores. While the recall was announced on June 8, 2023, the products have been available for some time. If you bought a similar-looking bench from a different retailer or a different brand, it is not covered by this specific TJX recall. When in doubt, the most reliable method is to compare your bench’s label, dimensions, and leg construction against the details provided above. If all these factors align, you should stop using the bench immediately and contact TJX for instructions on how to proceed with the refund process.

What to do — step by step

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

If you own one of the recalled Haining Degao benches, the good news is that the remedy offered by the company is straightforward and consumer-friendly: you are entitled to a full refund. There is no need to worry about partial refunds, store credit, or complicated repair kits because the manufacturer has determined that the structural integrity of the bench cannot be guaranteed once the legs detach. Instead, they want you to get your money back so you can replace the item with something safer. This approach prioritizes your physical safety over retaining a defective product, which is the standard and responsible course of action for CPSC recalls involving fall hazards.

You have two convenient paths to claim this refund, depending on your preference for online processing or in-person service. The first option is to handle everything from home. You can contact TJX directly by calling their toll-free number at 833-408-0502. This line is operational from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Central Time, Monday through Friday. When you call, a representative will guide you through the process of disposing of the bench safely at your home and then issuing your full refund. Alternatively, if you prefer digital convenience, you can visit their dedicated recall page at https://www.recallrtr.com/fabricbench for detailed instructions and to initiate the process online. This method is particularly helpful if you live far from a physical store or simply want to avoid the hassle of packing up heavy furniture for transport.

If you would rather not deal with shipping or disposal logistics yourself, you can take the bench directly to any Marshalls or T.J. Maxx retail location. Because these stores are part of the same parent company, they accept returns for this specific recall without requiring you to go back to the original point of purchase. Simply bring the bench to the customer service desk, and they will process your full refund on the spot. If you need to verify which store is nearest or want to confirm their current return policies regarding large items, you can visit the Marshalls website at https://www.marshalls.com/us/store/jump/topic/Product-Recalls/2400019 or www.marshalls.com and click on "Product Recalls" at the bottom of the page. Similarly, T.J. Maxx shoppers can find relevant information at https://tjmaxx.tjx.com/store/jump/topic/find-help/our-product-/2400009#productrecalls or by clicking "Product Recalls" on www.tjmaxx.com.

In summary, you do not need to keep a potentially dangerous piece of furniture in your home. Whether you choose the mail-in refund option via phone or website, or the immediate in-store return, the outcome is the same: you get your money back, and you eliminate the risk of injury from falling legs. Please act promptly to ensure your safety and that of your household.

What can happen if you ignore it

When a product recall involves structural failure in furniture, the stakes are rarely just about the integrity of the item itself—they are about the physical safety of anyone who interacts with it daily. In this specific case involving Haining Degao benches, continuing to use the product after the recall announcement transforms a minor inconvenience into a significant personal risk. The primary danger is not merely that the bench might look worn or feel unstable over time, but that the fundamental connection points—the screws attaching the wooden legs to the cushion top—can fail unexpectedly under normal weight loads.

While it may seem unlikely that a piece of furniture would collapse during casual use, the reported incidents tell a different story. The manufacturer has documented 21 separate instances where the legs broke or detached while consumers were seated on the benches. This is not a theoretical risk reserved for extreme conditions; it is a known failure mode that has already occurred multiple times in real-world settings, including within retail stores where the product was being tested by shoppers. Ignoring the recall means you are effectively gambling with your balance and your body every time you sit down.

The consequences of such a fall can range from minor annoyances to serious medical issues. According to the reports filed with the CPSC, the injuries sustained from these falls have included bruises, scratches, and back strains. Bruises and scratches might seem like standard bump-and-graze injuries, but they indicate that the fall happened with enough force to cause impact against the floor or surrounding objects. More concerning are the reports of back strains. Falling off a bench, especially if you attempt to catch your balance at the last second or land awkwardly on your side or buttocks, can jolt the spine and strain the muscles and ligaments in your lower back. For older adults, individuals with pre-existing bone density issues, or anyone with a slower reaction time, this type of fall carries an even higher risk of fractures or more severe trauma.

Beyond the immediate physical pain, there is the unpredictability factor. A leg detaching while you are seated can happen without warning. You might be reading, resting your feet, or simply shifting your weight, and the support beneath you vanishes. This sudden loss of stability often causes people to flail or fall backward, increasing the likelihood of hitting their head on nearby furniture, walls, or hard flooring. By ignoring the recall, you are not just keeping a defective bench; you are leaving a potential trip-and-fall hazard in your home that could result in an emergency room visit, medical bills, and days or weeks of recovery time. The cost of ignoring this warning far outweighs the effort of simply stopping use and processing your refund.

• Sudden Collapse: The legs can detach without prior warning, leaving no time to react.
• Impact Injuries: Falls from a height of 17.5 inches can cause bruises, cuts, and contusions from hitting the floor or adjacent objects.
• Strain and Sprain: The reflexive motion of trying to stay upright can lead to back strains, twisted ankles, or other musculoskeletal injuries.

The reality is that a bench is meant to provide support, not to become an unexpected obstacle. By taking action now, you eliminate the possibility of these documented injuries occurring in your home. The inconvenience of disposing of the bench is minor compared to the potential long-term effects of a fall caused by a known structural defect.

Staying safe: broader tips

While this specific recall addresses a critical structural failure in Haining Degao benches, the underlying issue—furniture instability—is a common hazard across many types of home furnishings. When we think about fall hazards, we often focus on stairs or wet floors, but heavy furniture tipping over is one of the leading causes of injury and even fatalities for children in the United States every year. The lesson here extends far beyond this single bench: any piece of furniture that can be climbed on, leaned against, or used as a step is a potential anchor point for a tip-over incident. To truly protect your home, it helps to understand how these accidents happen and what proactive measures you can take.

The physics of furniture tipping are straightforward but often overlooked. When a child climbs onto a bench, dresser, or TV stand, their weight acts as a lever. If the center of gravity shifts too far forward, the entire unit can pivot on its base. This is why anchoring is not just an assembly instruction—it is a vital safety device. You should regularly check that all heavy furniture items are secured to wall studs using appropriate hardware. Anchors must be installed into the stud, not just drywall, to hold the weight of a climbing child. For benches like the one recalled, which have a low profile but can still be scaled by curious toddlers or used as makeshift steps by adults, consider placing them against a wall where possible, or using anti-tip straps if the design allows for it.

Beyond anchoring, routine inspection is key to long-term safety. Over time, screws can loosen due to vibration from daily use, and wooden joints can weaken with age or moisture changes. Make it a habit to periodically check the integrity of your furniture legs, brackets, and fasteners. If you notice any wobble, creaking, or signs of stress in the wood or metal components, do not wait for a part to break completely. Tighten loose screws immediately, and if a component feels compromised, discontinue use of that piece until it is repaired by a professional or replaced. This preventive maintenance catches small issues before they become dangerous failures.

Finally, stay informed about product safety without letting fear dictate your home environment. The best way to know if a product you own has been identified as hazardous is through official channels like the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website or their public safety alerts database. Many manufacturers also offer registration cards or email notifications for specific product lines. By keeping your purchase receipts and model numbers organized, you make it easier to respond quickly if a recall is announced. Remember, recalls are a standard part of consumer product oversight and reflect a system working to keep you safe, not necessarily an indication that all products in that category are dangerous. Taking these general steps—anchoring, inspecting, and staying informed—creates a much safer home for everyone.