What was recalled
In late February 2022, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant recall involving decorative menorahs sold under the TJX Brands umbrella. This recall affects specific models of Hanukkah menorahs that were distributed across several popular retail chains owned by TJX Companies, Inc., including Marshalls, HomeGoods, and Homesense. The products in question are not traditional metal or glass menorahts but rather decorative items crafted from resin and medium-density fiberboard (MDF). While these materials allow for creative and whimsical designs, they introduced a structural vulnerability that led to the recall.
The recalled items were distinctively styled to appeal to a wide range of consumers looking for unique holiday decor. They were designed with inserts for nine candles, accommodating the traditional requirements of Hanukkah celebrations. The aesthetic variety included shapes such as llamas, brontosaurs, stegosaurs, and T-rexes, which added a playful, modern twist to the holiday tradition. Other designs featured more classic or abstract forms, including castles, rainbows, rainbow platforms, and emoji faces. Despite their diverse appearances, all affected units shared specific identifying characteristics that consumers can use to verify if their item is part of this recall.
To help shoppers identify the correct products, each recalled menorah came with a white hangtag attached at the time of purchase. This tag featured an image of a blue and silver menorah and bore the text "FESTIVE LIGHTS HANUKKAH MENORAH." More importantly, the bottom of each menorah was labeled with a specific style number. Consumers should check the label on the base of their menorah to see if it matches one of the following numbers: 262933, 263407, 263417, 262950, 856166, 856168, 856179, 856182, 856189, 856192, 856262, or 856266. The presence of any one of these style numbers indicates that the item is subject to this recall.
These decorative menorahs were sold exclusively at Marshalls, HomeGoods, and Homesense stores across the United States prior to the recall announcement date of February 23, 2022. The recall was initiated after TJX received reports indicating that the resin and MDF materials could burn or catch fire when holding lit candles. Although no injuries or property damage had been reported at the time of the announcement, three separate incidents in the U.S. involved the menorahs igniting. This highlights the importance of identifying whether you possess one of these specific models to ensure your holiday celebrations remain safe and worry-free.
The hazard, explained
When we think of Hanukkah celebrations, we often focus on the warmth and light that the holiday brings. However, the specific menorahs recalled by TJX present a serious and unexpected danger: they can ignite and catch fire while holding lit candles. This is not a minor inconvenience; it is a genuine fire hazard that poses a threat to both personal safety and property. To understand why this happens, we need to look at the materials used in these products and how they interact with open flames.
The recalled menorahs are constructed from two primary materials: resin and medium-density fiberboard (MDF). While these materials are popular in consumer goods for their affordability and ability to be molded into fun shapes—such as llamas, dinosaurs, castles, and rainbows—they have significant limitations when exposed to high heat. Resin is a synthetic polymer that can soften, melt, or become brittle under thermal stress. More critically, MDF is an engineered wood product made by breaking down hardwood or softwood residuals into fibers, combining them with wax and a resin binder, and forming panels under high temperature and pressure. While durable for cold use, MDF is highly combustible. When the heat from multiple lit candles accumulates on these surfaces, the materials can reach their ignition point.
The mechanism of failure here is straightforward but dangerous. As the candles burn, they release heat directly onto the menorah’s base and arms. Because these specific models are designed to hold nine candles simultaneously, the thermal load is significant. The resin may begin to degrade or warp, potentially causing the candle holders to become unstable. More alarmingly, the MDF can char and eventually ignite. Once the material catches fire, it does not just burn in place; it can spread rapidly across the surface of the menorah, turning a festive centerpiece into a source of uncontrolled flame. This is why the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has classified this as a fire hazard. The risk is not theoretical; TJX has already received three reports in the United States of these menorahs burning or catching on fire while holding lit candles.
It is important to note that while no injuries or property damage have been reported with these specific units, the potential for harm is real. Fires starting from holiday decorations can escalate quickly, especially in homes with flammable decor nearby. The danger lies in the material’s inability to withstand prolonged exposure to open flame. Even if the menorah does not burst into flames immediately, the resin may emit toxic fumes as it degrades, and the structural integrity of the candle holders may fail, causing lit candles to tip over onto flammable surfaces like tablecloths or wooden furniture. Understanding this physical process highlights why stopping use immediately is not just a recommendation, but a critical safety step.
Who is most at risk
The primary group at risk in this recall consists of households that purchased and display these specific resin and medium-density fiberboard (MDF) menorahs during the Hanukkah season. While the fire hazard itself affects anyone using the product, certain demographics face heightened vulnerability due to the nature of the materials involved and typical usage patterns. The menorahs are constructed from MDF, a composite wood material made by breaking down hardwood or softwood residuals into wood fibers, combining them with wax and resin, and forming panels under high temperature and pressure. When exposed to the direct flame of lit candles, as intended for this product, these materials can ignite. This means that any consumer who placed lit candles in the inserts of a llama, brontosaurus, stegosaurus, T-rex, castle, rainbow, rainbow platform, or emoji-shaped menorah sold at Marshalls, HomeGoods, or Homesense is potentially exposed to fire risk.
Families with young children are particularly vulnerable for two distinct reasons. First, the whimsical shapes of these recalled items—such as dinosaurs and llamas—are specifically designed to appeal to families and children, increasing the likelihood that these units are placed in common living areas where kids play or gather. If a menorah were to catch fire, it could happen rapidly while children are nearby, potentially leading to burns or panic-induced injuries before adults can intervene. Second, the heat generated by melting resin or burning MDF can release dense smoke and potentially toxic fumes. Young lungs are more sensitive to smoke inhalation than those of adults, making them disproportionately at risk from the secondary effects of a fire even if they do not directly touch the flames.
Elderly individuals or those with limited mobility also face increased danger in this scenario. In the event that the menorah ignites, the ability to quickly extinguish the flame or evacuate the area may be compromised by slower reaction times or physical limitations. Furthermore, because these items are often displayed on tables or shelves at table height, an elderly person might be closer to the source of heat and smoke when a fire starts. The recall notes that while no injuries have been reported yet, the potential for property damage and personal injury exists whenever a flammable object is placed in direct contact with an open flame without proper fire-resistant barriers.
Additionally, anyone living in older housing structures or those who place these menorahs near curtains, paper decorations, or other combustible household items is at elevated risk. The heat from the burning resin and MDF can act as an ignition source for nearby materials, turning a contained candle hazard into a room-wide fire. Therefore, the risk extends beyond just the user holding the candle, but to anyone in the immediate vicinity of the display area during the eight nights of Hanukkah.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Before you take any action regarding your Hanukkah decor, it is crucial to confirm whether the menorah in question is part of this specific recall. Because these items were sold through multiple retailers under a general brand umbrella, identifying the exact product requires a careful examination of its physical characteristics and labeling. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has identified that the recalled products are resin and medium-density fiberboard ("MDF") menorahs designed with inserts for nine candles. If your item is made of metal, wood, ceramic, or glass, it is likely not part of this specific recall, though you should always verify based on the other criteria below.
The first step in identification is to look at the shape and design of the menorah. The recalled items were produced in a variety of playful and festive shapes, including llamas, brontosaurs, stegosaurs, T-rexes, castles, rainbows, rainbow platforms, and emojis. If your menorah matches any of these specific designs, it is worth investigating further. Additionally, pay close attention to the packaging or tags that may still be attached. The recalled units were sold with a white hangtag featuring an image of a blue and silver menorah. The text on this tag reads "FESTIVE LIGHTS HANUKKAH MENORAH." If you have the original tag, this is a strong indicator that your item is part of the recall.
If the hangtag is missing, you must inspect the label located on the bottom of the menorah itself. Look for a sticker or printed label that displays one of the following style numbers: 262933, 263407, 263417, 262950, 856166, 856168, 856179, 856182, 856189, 856192, 86262, or 856266. The presence of any one of these specific numbers confirms that the item is subject to this recall.
You should also consider where and when you purchased the item. These menorahs were sold at Marshalls, HomeGoods, and Homesense stores. If you bought a menorah in one of these locations and it matches the physical description above, it is highly probable that it is part of this recall. While the recall does not specify exact dates of sale, the announcement was made on February 23, 2022, suggesting these items were likely sold during the Hanukkah season leading up to that date. If you are unsure, having the style number or a photo of the item will help customer service representatives verify its status quickly.
What to do — step by step
If you own one of the recalled resin and medium-density fiberboard (MDF) menorahs sold at Marshalls, HomeGoods, or Homesense, your first and most critical action is to stop using them immediately. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has identified a serious fire hazard because these specific items can burn or catch fire when holding lit candles. This is not a minor inconvenience; it is a genuine safety risk that requires prompt attention. Please do not attempt to repair the product yourself, and do not try to use it with electric lights if the recall specifically warns against heat sources, as the materials involved are combustible. Your safety and the safety of your home come first, so treat this item as unsafe for any purpose involving open flames until you have resolved the issue through the official channels. Once you have safely stored the menorah away from any potential ignition sources, you need to arrange for its return or disposal. You have two primary options for resolving this recall, and both offer you a choice of compensation. The most straightforward path is to take the item back to any Marshalls, HomeGoods, or Homesense store where it was originally purchased or any other location within that family of stores. When you go to the customer service desk, simply explain that you have a recalled Hanukkah menorah. The staff will process your return and provide you with either a full refund in cash or credit, or alternatively, a store gift card of equal value. This option is often preferred for its convenience, as it allows you to get your money back quickly without needing to mail anything. If returning the item to a physical store is not feasible for you due to distance or other constraints, you can choose to dispose of the menorah properly and request a refund through correspondence. In this case, you must contact TJX customer service directly to receive instructions on how to submit photographic proof that you have appropriately disposed of the hazardous item. Once your photos are reviewed and approved, you will also be eligible for either a full refund or a store gift card. To initiate this process, you can call Marshalls at 888-627-7425, HomeGoods at 800-888-0776, or Homesense at 855-660-4663, all available from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you may email customerservice@tjx.com or visit the specific recall pages on their respective websites for detailed guidance on the photographic submission process. Remember that no matter which path you choose, the goal is to remove the fire hazard from your home while ensuring you are made whole financially for the defective product.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have identified one of the recalled menorahs in your home, the most important step is to stop using them immediately. Because these items are made from resin and medium-density fiberboard (MDF), they are not designed to safely hold open flames for extended periods. The good news is that TJX has established a straightforward and consumer-friendly remedy process. You do not need to go through complex warranty claims or wait for approval. Instead, you have two clear paths to resolve this issue: returning the item in person or disposing of it remotely while still receiving compensation.
The primary recommendation is to return the menorah to any Marshalls, HomeGoods, or Homesense store where the product was originally sold or even just any location within their network. This is often the most convenient option for many consumers because it provides immediate resolution. When you bring the item back, the staff will process your return without requiring a receipt in most cases, given the nature of a safety recall. You will be offered a choice between two forms of compensation: a full refund to your original payment method or a refund issued as a store gift card. If you prefer to keep shopping at these retailers, the gift card option is a practical way to get value from the purchase without losing money entirely.
If you are unable to visit a physical store, TJX also allows for remote disposal and compensation. You can contact customer service directly to receive instructions on how to submit photographic proof that you have appropriately disposed of the menorah. This might involve breaking down the item or ensuring it is no longer usable as a candle holder before discarding it. Once your photos are reviewed and approved, you will still receive either a full refund or a store gift card, just as if you had returned it in person. This option is particularly helpful for those who live far from a retail location or prefer to handle the process digitally.
To initiate either of these processes, you can contact TJX customer service via phone or email. For Marshalls, call 888-627-7425 (9 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday) or visit their online recall page. HomeGoods customers can call 800-888-0776 during the same hours or use their customer service portal. Homesense shoppers may dial 855-660-4663 or check their dedicated recalls section online. Alternatively, you can email customerservice@tjx.com for assistance with either option. Remember, there is no deadline pressure that requires you to act in a panic; however, acting promptly ensures your safety and resolves the issue efficiently.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is easy to overlook a product recall, especially when the item in question holds sentimental value or has been sitting unused in a closet for months. You might think that because the menorahs are made of resin and medium-density fiberboard (MDF), they are sturdy enough to handle the heat of Hanukkah candles. However, ignoring this specific warning from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and TJX turns a festive tradition into a genuine domestic danger. The core issue is not just that the menorahs might get warm; it is that the materials themselves are combustible when subjected to an open flame. MDF, while durable for furniture or decor, contains adhesives and wood fibers that can ignite under sustained heat. Resin, depending on its formulation, can melt, deform, or catch fire if the temperature of the candle flame exceeds what the material can safely dissipate.
The reality of this hazard is not theoretical. According to official reports, TJX has already received three separate incidents in the United States where these specific menorahs burned or caught fire while holding lit candles. While no injuries or property damage have been reported from these specific cases, the fact that three separate fires occurred indicates a consistent failure point in the product design. If you continue to use your recalled menorah, you are essentially gambling with your home’s safety. A small fire on a table or mantel can quickly escalate, especially if the menorah is placed near curtains, holiday decorations, or other flammable items. The heat generated by the candle does not just sit in the bowl; it travels through the resin and MDF, weakening the structure and potentially causing the base to become hot enough to ignite nearby surfaces.
Beyond the immediate risk of a fire starting, ignoring the recall means you are denying yourself the safety net provided by the manufacturer. By keeping a known defective item, you are assuming all liability for any resulting damage. If a fire were to start and spread to your home or belongings, your insurance claims might become complicated if it is discovered that you continued to use a product you knew was recalled. More importantly, the peace of mind that comes with Hanukkah is diminished when you have to constantly monitor a heat source on a fragile stand. The stress of worrying about whether the candle will melt the holder or start a flame outweighs the convenience of keeping the item. You are trading your safety for the sake of holding onto a decorative object that was never designed to be safe with an open flame.
Finally, consider the broader implication of using recalled items. These products were pulled from shelves and flagged by regulators because they failed basic safety standards for fire resistance. Continuing to use them normalizes the idea that minor defects are acceptable in items that interact with fire. For households with children or pets, who might accidentally knock over a burning menorah, the consequences could be far more severe than just a smoldering base. The flame could spread to the floor, curtains, or nearby furniture much faster than you can react. The risk is not just about the menorah burning; it is about the chain reaction that follows when a non-fireproof object holds an open flame in a residential setting.
Staying safe: broader tips
While this specific recall addresses a unique defect in certain resin and medium-density fiberboard menorahs, the underlying safety principle applies to all holiday decorations that interact with open flames or high heat. Hanukkah is a celebration of light, but it is crucial to remember that any decorative item intended to hold a flame must be made from non-combustible materials such as glass, metal, or ceramic. When shopping for menorahs or other candelabras, always verify the manufacturer’s specifications regarding heat resistance. If a product is marketed primarily for aesthetic display rather than functional use with real flames, it may not have been engineered to withstand the sustained heat of burning wax or oil. For those who prefer the look of resin or wood for their home decor, consider using high-quality LED candles instead. Modern LED options provide a realistic flicker without generating significant heat, eliminating the fire risk entirely while maintaining the festive ambiance.
Beyond the choice of materials, safe placement is equally important when displaying any holiday lighting or candle holders. Always position menorahs on stable, flat surfaces that are resistant to heat and unlikely to be knocked over by children, pets, or passing traffic. Keep these items well away from curtains, drapes, paper decorations, and other flammable materials. It is also wise to ensure that your menorah is placed in a spot where it will not be easily disturbed; even a slight bump can tip a lit candle onto a nearby surface. If you choose to display your menorah in a window, as is traditional for many families, ensure the window sill is clear of debris and that the item is secure enough to withstand accidental contact from inside or outside the home.
Furthermore, never leave burning candles unattended. Even if you are confident in the stability of your menorah, habits matter. Establish a routine where you either remain in the room while the candles are lit or set a timer to remind yourself to extinguish them before leaving the house or going to sleep. This simple practice prevents small fires from escalating due to lack of supervision. Additionally, consider installing and regularly testing smoke detectors in your home, particularly near areas where holiday decorations are displayed. These devices provide an early warning system that can save lives and property if a fire does start. Finally, make it a habit to check for product recalls periodically, especially during the holiday season when new decorative items flood the market. Signing up for alerts from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) ensures you receive timely information about potential hazards before they result in an accident.