Empower Brands Recalls Black+Decker® Garment Steamers Due to Burn Hazard

What was recalled

In late October 2022, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant safety recall initiated by Empower Brands concerning specific units of their popular Black+Decker® Easy Garment Steamer line. This action was taken after internal investigations and consumer reports revealed that these household appliances were not performing as safely as intended during normal operation. The recall specifically targets the Model HGS011 series, which includes several variations identified by distinct suffixes: the HGS011F, the HGS011S, and the base model HGS011. These devices are designed to be lightweight, handheld tools for removing wrinkles from clothing and other fabrics, measuring approximately 11 inches in height and 6 inches in width, featuring a large handle for grip and the Black+Decker branding located at the base.

Identifying the exact units involved requires careful attention to the date codes printed directly on the metal blades of the power plug. The recall encompasses steamers with date codes ranging from 102ZJ through 210ZJ. If your device falls outside this numerical range, it is not part of this specific safety notice. Additionally, there are clear visual exclusions: if you see a green dot on the bottom of the product’s packaging or a notched triangle on the underside of the steamer’s upper assembly, your unit is exempt from this recall. For those who purchased the item without the original box, the model number is stamped on the bottom of the steamer itself, while Universal Product Code (UPC) numbers can be found on the sides, back, and bottom of the color packaging if it is still available.

The specific UPC codes associated with the recalled inventory are 0 50875 82840 7 for model HGS011F, 0 50875 82839 1 for model HGS011S, and 0 50875 82838 4 for model HGS011. These steamers were marketed in a variety of colors to suit different consumer preferences but shared the same internal components that led to the safety concern. They were sold through various retail channels across the United States, making it essential for owners to physically inspect their devices rather than relying solely on purchase location. The scope of this recall is substantial, affecting a wide range of units produced over several months, as indicated by the broad span of date codes included in the notice.

Empower Brands, the company responsible for bringing these appliances to market, has been working closely with the CPSC to address this issue. The decision to recall was driven by the need to protect consumers from potential injury, highlighting the importance of verifying whether a household item is part of an active safety alert. By providing detailed model numbers, date code ranges, and visual identifiers, the company aims to help customers quickly determine if their specific steamer is affected. This transparency allows users to take immediate action without unnecessary delay, ensuring that potentially dangerous units are removed from daily use and replaced with safe, functional components.

The hazard, explained

At its core, a garment steamer is designed to heat water until it turns into steam, which then relaxes the fibers in your clothing to remove wrinkles. The Black+Decker HGS011 models involved in this recall function on this same basic principle: a reservoir holds liquid water, a heating element boils it, and pressure forces that hot vapor out through a nozzle or brush head. However, the specific defect identified by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) disrupts this controlled process. Instead of safely emitting only steam, these units can unexpectedly expel, spray, or leak actual hot liquid water during normal operation.

This distinction between steam and liquid water is critical when discussing burn risks. Steam burns are typically caused by the rapid expansion of gas hitting cooler skin, but liquid water at steaming temperatures (often near 212°F or 100°C) carries a different kind of danger. When hot water sprays unexpectedly, it can hit exposed skin with significant force and temperature simultaneously. Because the water is in liquid form, it adheres to the skin longer than steam might evaporate, transferring intense heat directly into the tissue. This is why the recall reports include cases of second-degree burns—a serious injury that damages both the outer layer of skin and the underlying layer, often resulting in blisters and requiring medical attention.

The mechanism behind this failure likely involves a breach in the internal components that are supposed to keep the water contained until it is converted. Whether due to a faulty seal, a cracked internal tube, or a pressure regulation issue, the result is the same: the barrier between the heating element and the user fails. When this happens, the hot water does not just drip out slowly; it can spray with enough force to reach your hand, arm, or even face if you are holding the device at an angle. The reports indicate that this is not a rare occurrence, with Empower Brands documenting 241 instances of hot water expelling from these units.

Understanding this hazard helps explain why the remedy is not just a simple refund, but a specific repair. Since the issue lies in the physical delivery of the water, replacing the upper assembly—the part that houses the heating element and the nozzle system—is the logical fix. By installing a new upper assembly, the manufacturer restores the integrity of the system, ensuring that water is properly converted to steam and safely directed away from the user, rather than leaking or spraying as hot liquid. Until that replacement is installed, the device remains unsafe because the fundamental flaw in its operation persists.

It is also important to note that this hazard affects users regardless of how carefully they handle the steamer. Even if you are holding the device at a "safe" angle or using it on a flat surface, a sudden internal pressure release can direct the spray upward or outward unpredictably. This is why the recall instructions emphasize stopping use immediately. You cannot reliably predict when the defect will trigger a spray event, making continued use an unnecessary risk of painful injury. The goal of this explanation is not to frighten you, but to clarify that the danger is real, physical, and specific to the way this particular model fails, which is why taking action to get the free replacement part is essential for your safety.

Who is most at risk

While the Black+Decker HGS011 Easy Garment Steamers are designed for everyday household use, the nature of this specific recall means that anyone who owns or regularly uses these devices is potentially in harm’s way. The hazard here is not subtle; it involves the sudden expulsion, spraying, or leaking of hot water during normal operation. This makes the risk universal to all users of the affected models, but certain groups face a disproportionately higher level of danger due to their physical characteristics or typical usage patterns.

First and foremost, children are among the most vulnerable individuals in this scenario. Garment steamers are often used to remove wrinkles from clothes, toys, or curtains, tasks that frequently bring the device into close proximity with young children who may wander into the room. Because the recalled units can leak hot water unexpectedly, a child standing nearby is at severe risk of being sprayed with scalding liquid. Children have thinner skin than adults, which means they suffer burns more quickly and more severely. The report of second-degree burns in this recall underscores how rapidly serious injury can occur, even from brief exposure to the steam or hot water expelled by the malfunction. Furthermore, children may not recognize the danger until it is too late, lacking the reflexive speed to pull away from a sudden spray.

Elderly individuals and those with reduced mobility also face heightened risks. As we age, skin becomes thinner and more fragile, losing some of its protective elasticity and ability to retain moisture. This physiological change means that even lower temperatures can cause burns in older adults that would only cause redness or discomfort in a younger person. Additionally, if an elderly user is sprayed with hot water, their reaction time may be slower, potentially leading to longer contact with the heat source and deeper tissue damage. For anyone living alone or with limited support, a burn injury of this nature can lead to complications that are difficult to manage at home, turning a simple household accident into a significant medical crisis.

We must also consider individuals with sensory impairments or cognitive conditions. Those who have reduced sensation in their hands or arms may not immediately feel the heat of leaking water, allowing it to continue burning them without their knowledge until significant damage has occurred. Similarly, individuals with cognitive challenges may not understand why hot water is coming from the steamer and might remain close to investigate or attempt to correct the issue themselves, placing them directly in the path of the hazard. The fact that 241 reports have been received, including injuries, suggests that this is not a rare mechanical glitch but a systemic issue that can affect anyone who does not immediately recognize the danger and step back.

Finally, casual users who may have purchased these steamers years ago and rarely use them are at risk precisely because of their infrequent use. They may be less familiar with the specific quirks or warning signs of their device, making them more likely to be caught off guard by a sudden leak. Since the date codes on the plug blades determine whether a unit is included in this recall, many owners might not know which models are affected. This lack of awareness puts every owner of the HGS011 series at risk until they verify their specific date code and take action.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

Before taking any action, it is crucial to confirm that your specific garment steamer is part of this recall. Because Black+Decker models are popular and widely distributed, identifying the exact units involved requires careful attention to detail. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Empower Brands have specified that only certain model numbers with specific date codes are affected. If you do not see the details below on your device, it is likely safe to continue using it, but please verify thoroughly.

The primary identifier for this recall is the model number, which must be HGS011. This includes three specific variations: HGS011F, HGS011S, and the standard HGS011. You can find this model number printed on the bottom of the steamer itself, as well as on all sides of the original color packaging. If you no longer have the box, look closely at the base of the unit for the printed label.

Equally important is the date code, which indicates when the unit was manufactured. This code is located directly on the plug blades (the prongs that go into your wall outlet). The recall covers units with date codes ranging from 102ZJ through 210ZJ. If your date code falls outside this range, your steamer is not part of this specific safety notice.

You can also identify the affected units by their Universal Product Code (UPC). Check the sides, back, and bottom of the original packaging for these numbers:

• HGS011F: 0 50875 82840 7
• HGS011S: 0 50875 82839 1
• HGS011: 0 50875 82838 4

Physically, the recalled steamers are approximately 11 inches high by 6 inches wide and feature a large handle. They were sold in a variety of colors, so color alone is not a reliable indicator. However, there is one key visual exclusion: if your steamer has a green dot on the bottom of the package or a notched triangle on the underside of its upper assembly, it is not included in this recall.

If you are unsure about your model number or date code, do not guess. Contact Empower Brands directly for verification. You can reach them at 800-990-5298 (Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. CT) or visit www.blackanddeckerappliances.com and click on "Safety Notices" at the bottom of the page for more information.

What to do — step by step

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

If you have confirmed that your Black+Decker garment steamer is part of this recall, the good news is that Empower Brands has established a straightforward and cost-free remedy to resolve the issue. You do not need to return your entire unit, nor are you required to purchase any new accessories or parts to participate in this safety program. Instead, the company is providing a free replacement upper assembly for the recalled Model HGS011 Easy Garment Steamers. This approach is designed to be convenient for you, as replacing just the top portion of the steamer addresses the specific mechanical component responsible for the leak and spray hazards while allowing you to keep the rest of your device if it remains in good working order.

To initiate this process, you will need to contact Empower Brands directly. They have set up dedicated channels specifically for this recall to ensure your request is processed quickly and accurately. You can reach their customer support team by calling 800-990-5298. It is important to note their operating hours: they are available from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Central Time, Monday through Friday. If you prefer written communication or need to send documentation, you can email them at hgsrecall@brandprotectplus.com. For those who prefer to manage repairs online, Empower Brands has created specific web pages for this incident. You can visit www.prodprotect.com/recall or go to www.blackanddeckerappliances.com and click on "Safety Notices" located at the bottom of the page. These digital resources will guide you through the steps required to claim your free part.

When you contact Empower Brands, be prepared to provide specific details about your unit to verify that it is indeed included in this recall. Have your model number (HGS011) and the date code located on the plug blades ready to share. The date codes range from 102ZJ through 210ZJ for the affected units. Providing this information helps the support team confirm your eligibility without unnecessary back-and-forth delays. While the primary remedy is the free replacement upper assembly, the recall notice does not specify alternative options such as a full refund or store credit. Therefore, it is advisable to follow the instructions provided by Empower Brands for your specific situation. If you have questions about shipping costs for the new part or how long the repair might take, the customer service representatives and the online safety notices are the best sources for that information.

It is worth emphasizing that this remedy is strictly limited to the free replacement of the upper assembly. Empower Brands has not indicated that they will issue refunds for the original purchase price or offer monetary compensation beyond the repair part. The goal here is hazard mitigation—stopping the hot water leaks and burns—rather than financial restitution. By accepting the free replacement upper assembly, you effectively neutralize the burn risk associated with the defective component. This is a significant benefit, as purchasing a new steamer to replace a faulty one can be costly and environmentally wasteful. Taking advantage of this free repair option ensures your safety without placing an additional burden on your wallet.

Please act promptly once you have identified your unit as recalled. Although there is no deadline mentioned in the recall facts, delaying the repair means you are continuing to use a device that poses a risk of second-degree burns and other injuries. The fact that 32 burn injuries have already been reported underscores the importance of not ignoring this notice. By contacting Empower Brands today, you can secure your free upper assembly and restore safe use of your garment steamer. Remember to stop using the recalled steamer immediately until the new part is installed and the issue is resolved.

What can happen if you ignore it

It is completely understandable why you might be tempted to keep using your Black+Decker garment steamer despite the recall notice. Perhaps you are in a rush to get ready for work, or maybe you simply prefer the results of steam over ironing and do not want to disrupt your routine. The thought of pausing your day to contact customer service and wait for a replacement part can feel like an unnecessary burden. However, ignoring this specific recall is not just about missing out on a free repair; it is about exposing yourself and your household to a tangible, physical danger that does not go away on its own.

The core issue with the recalled Black+Decker Model HGS011 Easy Garment Steamers is that they can unexpectedly expel, spray, or leak hot water during normal operation. This is not a minor malfunction that might just result in a wet shirt. The water inside these devices is heated to high temperatures specifically to create steam, and when the internal pressure or seals fail, that superheated water is ejected directly outward. If this happens while you are holding the steamer close to your body or while you are working on delicate fabrics near your hands, the results can be severe and immediate.

The consequences of continuing to use a defective unit are grounded in real-world reports. Empower Brands has documented 241 incidents involving hot water escaping from these steamers. While not every incident resulted in a medical emergency, the severity of the injuries reported is significant. Among those who sought medical attention, there were 32 reports of burn injuries. Most concerning among these are the two confirmed cases of second-degree burns. A second-degree burn affects both the outer layer of skin and the underlying layer, often causing blistering, intense pain, and requiring substantial medical care to heal properly. These are not superficial red marks; they are serious tissue damages that can lead to infection and long-term scarring.

Even if you have not yet experienced a burn, the risk remains unpredictable. The defect is inherent to the manufacturing of this specific batch, meaning any unit with the affected date codes could fail at any moment without warning. You might be holding the steamer while wearing short sleeves, or perhaps you are using it on a garment that requires close proximity to your face and neck. In those moments, a sudden spray of boiling water can cause immediate pain, shock, and potential damage to sensitive areas like your eyes or face.

By ignoring the recall, you are essentially gambling with your physical safety. The remedy provided—a free replacement upper assembly—is designed to fix the root cause of the leak. Until that part is installed by a professional via the recall process, the device remains a hazard. Continuing to use it does not make the defect disappear; it only increases the window of opportunity for an accident to occur. Protecting yourself from even one potential burn injury is far more valuable than the few minutes or hours it takes to initiate the replacement process.

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