RH Recalls Outdoor Torches Due to Fire Hazard (Recall Alert)

What was recalled

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recently announced a significant recall involving a specific line of outdoor decorative items sold under the RH brand. This action targets several models of the "Lambeth" series, which are marketed as elegant floor and tabletop outdoor metal torches. These pieces are designed to bring a rustic, high-end aesthetic to patios, decks, and garden spaces, featuring finishes that include brass, iron, slate, or weathered bronze. While they appear sturdy and sophisticated, the recall encompasses both the larger floor-standing versions and their smaller tabletop counterparts. The collection is divided into two distinct design styles: the "Hexagonal" series and the "Knurled" series. Each style offers variants for different placement needs, ensuring that customers who purchased either a tall torch to anchor a corner or a shorter one for a side table may be affected by this alert.

To help you determine if your specific item is part of this recall, it is important to look closely at the physical characteristics of the product. The recalled torches are constructed from metal and feature either a hexagonal canister shape or a knurled (textured) canister design. The critical identifier for these products is not just the visual style, but the specific Stock Keeping Unit (SKU) and Universal Product Code (UPC) printed on the item itself. These codes are located on a green sticker found on the underside of the canister base. Additionally, if you still have your original purchase receipt, the SKU or UPC will also be listed there, providing a secondary way to verify your product's status against the recall list.

The specific models included in this recall are extensive, covering multiple finish options for each style and size combination. For the Lambeth Hexagonal Floor Torch, the affected SKUs and UPCs are 10039220ASRD with UPC 431146730009, 10039220BRSS with UPC 431146750007, 10039220IRON with UPC 431146740008, and 10039220WBRZ with UPC 431146760006. The Lambeth Hexagonal Tabletop Torch includes SKUs 10039214ASRD (UPC 431146490002), 10039214BRSS (UPC 431146510007), 10039214IRON (UPC 431146500008), and 10039214WBRZ (UPC 431146520006). Furthermore, the Lambeth Knurled Floor Torch encompasses SKUs 10039213ASRD (UPC 431146450006), 10039213BRSS (UPC 431146470004), 10039213IRON (UPC 431146460005), and 10039213WBRZ (UPC 431146480003). Finally, the Lambeth Knurled Tabletop Torch includes SKUs 10039216ASRD (UPC 431146570001), 10039216BRSS (UPC 431146590009), 10039216IRON (UPC 431146580000), and 10039216WBRZ (UPC 431146600005). These items were sold through RH stores and online channels prior to the recall announcement date of November 12, 2021. If your product matches any of these identifiers, it is part of this safety alert.

The hazard, explained

At first glance, the RH Lambeth outdoor torches are nothing more than elegant pieces of patio decor. With their hexagonal or knurled canisters and finishes ranging from brass to weathered bronze, they are designed to bring warmth and ambiance to your evening gatherings. However, beneath that polished exterior lies a significant safety flaw related to how these devices handle fuel. The core issue is not with the flame itself, but with the integrity of the container holding the flammable liquid fuel inside. Specifically, the design or manufacturing defect allows the torch fuel to leak from the very top of the torch canister.

To understand why this is dangerous, it helps to look at how these torches function. They rely on a wicking system that draws liquid fuel up from the reservoir to the burner head at the top, where it is ignited. When the seal or structural integrity at the top of the canister fails, fuel bypasses this controlled burn path and escapes into the surrounding environment. Because outdoor torches are typically used in close proximity to seating areas, decks, pergolas, and other combustible materials like wood siding or dry furniture cushions, a leak is not just a mess—it is an immediate ignition source.

The physical mechanism of harm occurs when this escaped fuel comes into contact with the open flame of the torch or another nearby heat source. Liquid fuel that has leaked from the top can pool on surfaces or drip onto hot components. If that pooled fuel ignites, it creates a flash fire or a rapidly spreading blaze. This is particularly frightening because the fire starts at the base of the torch, often near where people are standing or sitting, and can quickly spread to nearby curtains, drapes, or outdoor furniture. The danger is compounded by the fact that the leak might not be immediately obvious; fuel can seep out slowly before a spark triggers a sudden flare-up.

In this specific recall, RH has documented seven reports of this exact failure mode—fuel leaking from the torch canister. While it is reassuring that no injuries have been reported to date, the potential for harm is severe. A fire originating from a patio torch can cause third-degree burns, smoke inhalation, and significant property damage. The risk is highest when the torch is unattended or placed near flammable materials like wooden decks, dry leaves, or fabric furniture. Understanding that the hazard is rooted in a failure of containment at the top of the unit helps explain why stopping use immediately is critical. You cannot simply "be more careful" with a leak; you must remove the ignition source entirely by disengaging with the product until it is remediated.

Who is most at risk

When we talk about who is "most at risk" in this recall, it is helpful to look at two different groups: the people who are physically closest to the hazard when it occurs, and the people who are statistically more vulnerable to the consequences of such a fire. The recalled RH Lambeth outdoor torches are designed for patios, decks, and garden spaces. Therefore, the primary group at immediate risk includes anyone using these specific metal torches as a source of ambient light or warmth during evening gatherings. Because the defect involves fuel leaking from the top of the canister and igniting unexpectedly, anyone standing directly next to the torch—whether they are tending to it, sitting nearby on patio furniture, or passing close by—is exposed to the immediate danger of sudden flame or heat.

While no injuries have been reported with these specific units so far, the nature of a fuel leak in an outdoor setting creates a unique set of vulnerabilities. The most physically vulnerable individuals are often children and pets. Torches like the Lambeth floor and tabletop models are frequently placed low to the ground or on accessible surfaces where curious hands or paws might reach them. Children are naturally drawn to the flickering flame and may attempt to touch the warm metal canister, adjust the wick, or lean in too closely. If fuel were to leak and ignite while a child is inspecting the device, the resulting flare-up could cause severe burns. Because children have thinner skin and less impulse control than adults, they are at a significantly higher risk of serious injury from a sudden ignition event compared to an adult who might instinctively step back.

Elderly individuals or those with mobility challenges also face heightened risks in this scenario. If the torch is placed on a tabletop or a low floor stand, it may be within easy reach but located in a pathway where someone using a walker, cane, or wheelchair might not see it clearly in dim lighting. A sudden fire starting at ground level can create smoke and heat that rises rapidly, potentially disorienting someone who is already moving slowly or relying on visual cues for balance. Furthermore, if an elderly person attempts to move the leaking torch to extinguish the flame, they may be more prone to trips or falls, adding a secondary physical risk to the fire hazard itself.

It is also important to consider the context of use. These torches are often used in social settings where attention is divided. Guests might be engaged in conversation, drinking, or watching children play, rather than monitoring the torch continuously. This distraction does not make them "more vulnerable" biologically, but it increases the likelihood that a small leak will go unnoticed until it ignites. For anyone with respiratory conditions, such as asthma, even a minor ignition that produces smoke could trigger an immediate health response, making the environment around the recalled torches unsafe for this demographic. Ultimately, while any owner of these specific SKUs is at risk, those living in homes with young children, pets, or elderly residents should treat this recall with the utmost urgency and remove the devices from their property immediately.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

Identifying whether your outdoor torch is part of this specific recall requires a careful look at both the physical product itself and any documentation you kept from the time of purchase. Because RH (formerly Restoration Hardware) manufactures several variations of their Lambeth line, it is crucial to verify that your unit matches the exact models described in the safety alert. The recalled items are specifically the Lambeth floor and tabletop outdoor metal torches. These pieces are distinct because they feature either a hexagonal or a knurled canister design. You should also check the finish of the metal, as the affected units come in brass, iron, slate, or weathered bronze finishes.

The most reliable way to confirm if your torch is included in this recall is by locating the Stock Keeping Unit (SKU) and the Universal Product Code (UPC). These numbers are printed on a green sticker located on the underside of the canister. If you have lost the original purchase receipt, look directly at the bottom of the torch for that green label. However, if the sticker has worn off or been removed over time, your best resource is the original sales receipt. The SKU or UPC code will be clearly listed there alongside the item description and price.

To ensure accuracy, compare the numbers on your product or receipt against the specific list of recalled SKUs and UPCs provided by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. The recall covers four main groups of torches: Lambeth Hexagonal Floor Torch, Lambeth Hexagonal Tabletop Torch, Lambeth Knurled Floor Torch, and Lambeth Knurled Tabletop Torch. For example, if you have a Hexagonal Floor Torch, look for SKUs such as 10039220ASRD, 10039220BRSS, 10039220IRON, or 10039220WBRZ. If you possess a Tabletop version, the SKUs will differ slightly, such as 10039214ASRD for the hexagonal tabletop model or 10039216ASRD for the knurled tabletop model. Each SKU is paired with a corresponding UPC code that must match exactly.

If you cannot find the green sticker or your receipt, do not guess. The risk involves fuel leaking from the top of the canister and igniting, so it is vital to be certain before deciding how to proceed. If you are unsure whether your specific model number is included in the list above, contact RH directly using the information provided in the recall notice. They have been contacting all known purchasers directly, but verifying through their customer service team or online safety recall page ensures you are not overlooking a potential hazard.

What to do — step by step

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

If you own one of the recalled RH Lambeth outdoor torches, it is important to understand that this recall does not offer a repair kit or a direct replacement unit. Instead, the remedy provided by the manufacturer is a full financial resolution designed to remove the hazard entirely from your home. Because the defect involves the torch fuel leaking from the top of the canister and potentially igniting, there is no safe way to fix the existing product in place. Therefore, RH has chosen to issue a complete refund of your purchase price or provide store credit if the original payment amount cannot be verified. This approach ensures that you are not left with a defective item while navigating complex repair logistics, which could inadvertently leave you vulnerable to the fire risk.

The process for receiving your refund or credit is structured to be as straightforward as possible, though it does require you to return a specific part of the product rather than the entire torch. RH will contact all known purchasers directly to initiate this process. If you have not yet been contacted, you can proactively reach out to them using the toll-free number at 833-424-1125. Their customer service team is available from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. Pacific Time Monday through Friday, and from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific Time on Saturday and Sunday. Alternatively, you may send an email to recall@rh.com or visit their dedicated Safety Recalls page online at https://rh.com/content/page.jsp?id=safety-recalls, which can also be accessed via the "Safety Recalls" link at the bottom of www.rh.com.

Once you have established contact with RH, they will provide you with a prepaid shipping label and specific packaging instructions. It is crucial to note that you are only required to return the torch lid, not the entire heavy metal unit. After RH receives this returned lid, they will process your refund or credit. This condition—that the lid must be returned before funds are released—is a standard verification step to confirm that the defective component has been removed from circulation. If your original purchase price cannot be determined due to lack of records, you will receive store credit instead. Please do not attempt to keep the lid as a spare part, as it contains the leaking mechanism that poses the fire hazard.

To ensure you receive the correct remedy, verify that your item matches one of the recalled SKUs or UPCs listed on the green sticker on the underside of the canister or on your original receipt. The affected models include the Lambeth Hexagonal Floor and Tabletop Torches, as well as the Knurled Floor and Tabletop Torches, available in brass, iron, slate, or weathered bronze finishes. By following these steps and returning the lid promptly, you secure your full financial compensation while helping to keep your household safe from the ignition risk associated with this specific fuel leak defect.

What can happen if you ignore it

It is completely understandable to feel hesitant about returning a beautiful piece of home decor like the RH Lambeth torches. They are designed to add warmth and ambiance to your patio or garden, and parting with them requires effort, especially when the issue seems contained to a specific component like the lid. However, ignoring this recall is not merely an inconvenience; it is a decision that keeps a significant fire hazard active in your living space. The core danger here is not just that the torch might malfunction, but that it can do so unexpectedly and with serious consequences for personal safety and property.

The specific mechanism of failure involves the torch fuel leaking from the top of the canister. When you are using these outdoor torches, you are likely lighting them near your home, deck, or seating areas where family and friends gather. If the fuel leaks from the top while the torch is lit, it does not simply vanish. Instead, it comes into immediate contact with an open flame or hot surfaces below, igniting instantly. This creates a fire hazard that can escalate rapidly. Fuel is highly flammable, and a leak at the top of the canister means the source of the fire is elevated and directly connected to your fuel supply, potentially leading to larger-than-expected blazes that are difficult to control with a standard lighter or match.

While the recall notice states that RH has received seven reports of fuel leaking from the torch canister, it is crucial to understand that these reported incidents represent only what has been documented so far. The fact that no injuries have been reported in these specific cases is reassuring, but it does not mean the risk is low. It simply means that, fortunately, these particular leaks did not result in harm to anyone at that moment. Fire hazards are unpredictable; a small leak tonight could lead to a larger flare-up tomorrow if conditions change, such as wind direction or proximity to combustible materials like dry leaves, wooden railings, or outdoor furniture cushions.

Continuing to use the recalled torches also puts your home and personal belongings at risk. An uncontrolled fire can spread from the torch to nearby structures, causing extensive damage that far exceeds the value of the product itself. Beyond the financial loss, there is the emotional toll of dealing with a preventable accident. By ignoring the recall, you are essentially betting against probability, assuming that your specific unit will not be the one to leak. Given that the flaw is inherent in the design or manufacturing of these specific models, the likelihood of failure exists for every unit sold under this recall.

Therefore, the consequence of inaction is not just a wasted refund; it is the potential for serious injury, loss of property, and the destruction of your outdoor living space. The remedy offered by RH—a full refund or credit—is a straightforward way to eliminate this risk entirely. Choosing not to act leaves you vulnerable to a hazard that has already been identified as dangerous by both the manufacturer and safety regulators.

Staying safe: broader tips

While this specific recall addresses a manufacturing defect in RH’s Lambeth torches, the underlying hazard—fuel leakage leading to fire—is a concern for anyone who uses outdoor gas-burning appliances. Whether you own vintage lanterns, modern patio heaters, or portable camping stoves, understanding how these devices work can help you prevent accidents before they happen. The primary danger with propane or butane torches is not just the flame itself, but the integrity of the fuel system. Over time, rubber seals can dry out and crack, and metal threads can wear down due to repeated attachment and detachment. This creates microscopic pathways for gas to escape. Because propane is heavier than air, leaked fuel can pool in low spots around your patio or deck before finding an ignition source. Being aware of this behavior allows you to position your torches safely away from high-traffic areas and flammable materials like wooden railings or dry foliage.

Regular maintenance is your first line of defense against these types of hazards. For any gas-powered outdoor equipment, inspect the connection points between the fuel canister and the torch body before every use. Look for signs of wear on the O-rings or gaskets; if they appear brittle, flattened, or cracked, replace them immediately with manufacturer-approved parts. Never force a connection that feels resistant, as this can strip threads or damage the seal. Additionally, ensure that your torch is placed on a stable, level surface. Even a slight tilt can cause liquid fuel to rise higher in the canister than designed, potentially reaching the valve assembly where it might leak out. Stability is just as important as structural integrity; a tipped-over torch spreads fuel across a much wider area, dramatically increasing the risk of a flare-up.

Beyond physical inspection, establishing safe operational habits makes a significant difference in home safety. Always light your torch according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically involving a long-reach lighter held at a safe distance from your face and body. Never leave a lit torch unattended, especially if you have children or pets nearby who might accidentally bump into it. It is also wise to keep a Class B fire extinguisher rated for flammable liquids near your outdoor entertaining area. Having the right tool accessible can turn a small leak into a manageable incident rather than a disaster.

Finally, stay proactive about product safety by monitoring recall alerts. Manufacturers may identify defects after a product has been sold due to new data or testing results. You can sign up for notifications from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) via their website or subscribe to email updates from major retailers where you shop. Checking these resources periodically ensures that if a defect is discovered in your equipment, you are among the first to know and can take action to protect your household.