What was recalled
In a significant safety announcement issued on June 3, 2021, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) confirmed that Fisher-Price is recalling two distinct lines of infant soothing products due to serious safety concerns. This recall affects specific models of the popular 4-in-1 Rock 'n Glide Soother as well as several variants of the 2-in-1 Soothe 'n Play Glider. These items were widely marketed and sold because they offer parents a multi-functional solution for calming fussy babies, but the scope of this issue is precise, targeting specific model numbers rather than every product the brand has ever manufactured.
The first group of recalled products includes the 4-in-1 Rock 'n Glide Soothers. The specific models identified in this recall are CHP56, CHP55, and CBT81. These units were designed to serve multiple purposes for infants, functioning as both a powered glider seat and an infant rocker. In either mode, the product is engineered to move in a head-to-toe or side-to-side motion, which is intended to soothe the baby. However, it is important to note that this specific recall does not include model HBT17, which was sold exclusively in Canada and is therefore not part of this U.S. government action.
The second group involves the 2-in-1 Soothe 'n Play Gliders. The models affected by this recall are GDD28, GDD39, GDD41, GGW85, GNX43, GVG43, HBD26, and HBD27. Like the Rock 'n Glide Soothers, these products offer dual functionality, allowing parents to use them as either a glider or a rocker. The design of both recalled product lines allows for movement that can potentially shift an infant’s position during sleep, which is the core safety issue at hand.
If you are trying to determine whether your specific item is part of this recall, look for the model number located on the underside of the base of the product. This identification is crucial because Fisher-Price has produced many similar-looking products over the years, and only the specific models listed above are included in this mandatory safety action. While the CPSC records do not provide an exact count of the total number of units sold globally, they confirm that these products were distributed widely through various retail channels across the United States between April 2019 and February 2020, which is when the incidents prompting this recall occurred.
Understanding exactly which model you have is the first step in ensuring your child’s safety. Because these products are designed to move and rock, they can appear very similar to non-recalled stationary rockers or gliders. Therefore, checking the label on the bottom of the base is the only reliable way to know if your device is part of this specific recall notice. If your model number matches one of the lists above, it is essential to take immediate action to prevent potential harm.
The hazard, explained
Understanding why this recall is so urgent requires looking at the specific way these products move and how an infant’s body reacts to that motion when not secured. The Fisher-Price 4-in-1 Rock 'n Glide Soothers and the 2-in-1 Soothe 'n Play Gliders are designed with a motorized mechanism that allows the seat to glide back and forth or rock from side to side. This feature is intended to soothe babies by mimicking gentle, rhythmic motion similar to being held or rocked by a parent. However, this very motion creates a significant physical risk when an infant is placed in the unit unrestrained.
The core danger lies in the combination of gravity, momentum, and the developing motor skills of young infants. When a baby is placed on their back in these gliders without a harness, the gentle rocking or gliding motion can inadvertently cause the infant to roll over. Infants under six months of age, particularly those who are only just beginning to develop head control, do not have the strength or coordination to right themselves if they end up in an unexpected position. As the product continues to move, a baby who starts on their back may slowly shift onto their stomach or side.
Once an infant is positioned on their stomach within the confines of the seat, the risk of suffocation becomes immediate and severe. This is not just about being "tired" or "uncomfortable." When a baby’s face is pressed against the soft surfaces of the seat or mattress while in a prone (stomach-down) position, they may not have the neck strength to lift their head to breathe if their nose and mouth are blocked. This phenomenon is often referred to as positional asphyxia. The infant may struggle briefly but quickly become exhausted, leading to a lack of oxygen. Tragically, the incident reports confirm that infants were placed on their backs unrestrained and later found on their stomachs, resulting in four confirmed deaths between April 2019 and February 2020. These victims ranged from 11 weeks to 4 months old, highlighting that even very young babies are vulnerable to this mechanism.
It is important to note that the hazard is not limited to just one type of motion. Whether the product is in "glider" mode, moving head-to-toe, or in "rocker" mode, moving side-to-side, the unrestrained infant remains at risk. The continuous movement can mask the fact that the child has rolled over, lulling caregivers into a false sense of security. Without a physical restraint system to keep the baby securely on their back, the product becomes a dangerous environment for any infant who lacks the ability to consistently maintain a safe sleeping position on their own.
Who is most at risk
The primary group at immediate and severe risk from this recall consists of infants who are placed in the Fisher-Price 4-in-1 Rock 'n Glide Soothers or the 2-in-1 Soothe 'n Play Gliders without being secured by the provided restraint system. While these products are designed to offer comfort and soothing motion for babies, the specific hazard arises when a child is left unrestrained. The danger is not inherent in the product’s construction alone, but in the dynamic interaction between an unsecured infant and the product’s active movement features.
The most vulnerable users are young infants who lack the physical strength and developmental coordination to reposition themselves if they roll over. Specifically, babies who are placed on their backs initially may later be found lying on their stomachs while inside the unit. This position is critical because it can lead to suffocation. When an infant’s face is pressed against the seat or base of the glider, especially in a confined space created by the product’s contours, their airway can become blocked. Unlike older toddlers who might push themselves up or turn their heads, very young infants often do not have the neck strength or motor skills to free their faces from obstruction once they have rolled over.
The risk is exacerbated by the unique design of these recalled items, which feature two distinct use modes: a powered glider seat and an infant rocker. In both modes, the product moves in a head-to-toe or side-to-side motion. This movement can inadvertently cause an unrestrained infant to shift positions during sleep or rest. If a baby is not strapped in, the gentle rocking or gliding action can gradually roll them onto their stomach. Once there, if they become stuck or unable to lift their head effectively, the risk of suffocation increases dramatically. The tragic incidents reported, which included four infant deaths between April 2019 and February 2020, involved infants who were reportedly placed on their backs unrestrained and later found on their stomachs.
While the fatalities have been concentrated in the 4-in-1 Rock 'n Glide Soother model, parents of children using the 2-in-1 Soothe 'n Play Gliders must also remain vigilant. Although there have been no reported fatalities associated with the glider models to date, the underlying risk factor—the potential for an unrestrained infant to roll onto their stomach while in motion—remains present. The most critical takeaway is that any infant using these devices must always be fully restrained according to the manufacturer’s instructions at all times. The safety of the child depends entirely on preventing them from moving into a prone position where they cannot breathe freely.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Before you take any action or contact the manufacturer, you need to be certain that the specific unit in your home is part of this recall. Because Fisher-Price produced these items over a period of time and they come in several variations, relying solely on the product name is not enough. You must verify the exact model numbers to ensure your device is affected. This step is critical because the recall covers two distinct product lines: the 4-in-1 Rock 'n Glide Soothers and the 2-in-1 Soothe 'n Play Gliders. If you have a different Fisher-Price baby seat or rocker from a different series, it may not be included in this specific safety alert.
Start by locating the model number on your device. The recall notice specifies that for both product types, the model number is located on the underside of the base. This means you will likely need to tip the unit over or lift the entire structure to see the label clearly. Look for a sticker or printed text near the bottom edge of the plastic base. Once you find the code, check it against the lists below.
If you have a 4-in-1 Rock 'n Glide Soother, your model number will be one of the following: CHP56, CHP55, or CBT81. These units are designed to function in two modes: as a powered glider seat and as an infant rocker. In either mode, the seat can move in a head-to-toe or side-to-side motion. If your unit matches one of these three codes, it is included in this recall.
If you have a 2-in-1 Soothe 'n Play Glider, the list of affected model numbers is longer. You need to check if your model number is GDD28, GDD39, GDD41, GGW85, GNX43, GVG43, HBD26, or HBD27. Note that there is one additional code, HBT17, which is sold exclusively in Canada. If you are a U.S. consumer and your model number is HBT17, this specific recall does not apply to you, but if you are in Canada, it does. There have been no fatalities reported for the 2-in-1 Soothe 'n Play Gliders so far, but they are still being recalled due to the same suffocation risk as the Rock 'n Glide models.
If you cannot find a label, or if the text is worn off, take clear photos of the product from multiple angles, including the base and any tags. Contact Fisher-Price using the information provided in the remedy section for help identifying your unit. Do not guess. If there is any doubt that your model number matches one listed above, it is safest to assume it might be affected and stop using the product immediately until you can confirm with customer service.
What to do — step by step
If you own any of the recalled Fisher-Price products, your immediate safety is the absolute priority. The recall notice from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is clear and urgent: you must stop using these items right away. This is not a situation where you can wait until the weekend or until you have time to research other options. Because there have been confirmed infant fatalities linked specifically to the 4-in-1 Rock 'n Glide Soother, and because the mechanism of injury involves infants rolling onto their stomachs while unrestrained, leaving the product in your home poses a severe and unnecessary risk. Please remove both the 4-in-1 Rock 'n Glide Soothers and the 2-in-1 Soothe 'n Play Gliders from your living space immediately. Do not donate them, sell them, or give them away to friends or family; doing so could inadvertently expose other children to this same danger. Once the products are out of sight and out of reach, your next step is to initiate the remedy process with Fisher-Price. The company has established a specific channel for consumers who need assistance with this recall. You have two primary ways to get in touch with them. First, you can visit their online service portal at www.service.mattel.com. On that page, look for the section labeled "Recall & Safety Alerts" to find the specific details regarding your model. If you prefer speaking directly with a representative, you can call their toll-free number at 855-853-6224. It is important to note their hours of operation: they are available from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. Keep these hours in mind so you do not waste time trying to call outside of their support window. When you contact Fisher-Price, be prepared to provide specific details about your product to ensure you are processed correctly. As noted in the recall facts, the model number is located on the underside of the base of the device. You will need this identifier to confirm that your specific unit is part of the recall. For the 4-in-1 Rock 'n Glide Soothers, check if your model is CHP56, CHP55, or CBT81. For the 2-in-1 Soothe 'n Play Gliders, verify if your model is GDD28, GDD39, GDD41, GGW85, GNX43, GVG43, HBD26, or HBD27. Remember that model HBT17 is sold in Canada only; if you are in the United States and have this model, it may not be part of this specific U.S. recall action, but you should still verify with Fisher-Price. The remedy offered for both product lines is a full refund. This means you do not need to keep the product for parts or repair. Simply follow the instructions provided by the customer service representative or the online portal to receive your money back. While the process might take a few days to complete, securing that refund ensures that the hazardous item is removed from your home and that you are compensated for the risk taken. Do not hesitate to ask questions during your call if you are unsure about any part of the return or refund process. Your peace of mind and the safety of your infant are worth the time it takes to resolve this properly.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have one of the recalled Fisher-Price products, your primary path forward is straightforward and designed to remove any risk from your home immediately. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has determined that these items cannot be safely repaired or modified to mitigate the suffocation hazard. Therefore, the official remedy provided by Fisher-Price is a full refund. This means you are not expected to pay for shipping, nor are you expected to keep the product in any form. The company is offering to take the recalled item off your hands and return your money in full, allowing you to choose a different, safer alternative for your child’s comfort.
To initiate this refund process, you need to contact Fisher-Price directly. They have set up specific channels for consumers to reach them regarding this recall. You can visit their online service portal at www.service.mattel.com. Once there, look for the section labeled "Recall & Safety Alerts." This digital route is often convenient if you prefer to handle things digitally or during hours outside of standard phone support. Alternatively, Fisher-Price has established a toll-free telephone number specifically for this recall: 855-853-6224. It is important to note the hours of operation for this line. You can call from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. If you are in a different time zone, please plan your call accordingly to ensure you reach an agent during these specific business hours.
When you contact Fisher-Price, whether by phone or online, be prepared to provide the model numbers of the items you wish to return. This helps them verify that your product is indeed part of this specific recall batch and not a different, safe version. For the 4-in-1 Rock 'n Glide Soothers, the affected model numbers are CHP56, CHP55, and CBT81. For the 2-in-1 Soothe 'n Play Gliders, the recalled models include GDD28, GDD39, GDD41, GGW85, GNX43, GVG43, HBD26, and HBD27. Keep in mind that model number HBT17 is sold exclusively in Canada and may not be subject to the same U.S.-based refund process depending on your location.
The "why" behind this remedy is critical to understand. The hazard involves infants rolling over while unrestrained, which can lead to suffocation if they end up on their stomachs. Because the product’s design allows for movement in both head-to-toe and side-to-side motions, simply tying it down or adding a restraint does not eliminate the risk of the infant changing position unexpectedly. A refund is the only way to ensure that the specific mechanical and safety failures associated with this model are completely removed from your household. Once you have processed the refund through the official Fisher-Price channels, you should dispose of the item responsibly. Do not donate it or give it to friends, as the danger remains regardless of who holds it. Your goal is simply to replace a dangerous piece of nursery equipment with a safe one, and this refund process is designed to make that transition as easy and financially neutral as possible for you.
What can happen if you ignore it
Choosing to keep using a recalled infant product is never a minor oversight; it is an active decision that carries profound and potentially irreversible consequences. In the specific case of the Fisher-Price Rock 'n Glide Soother and Soothe 'n Play Glider, ignoring the recall does not merely mean you are missing out on a free refund or a safer alternative. It means continuing to expose vulnerable infants to a known mechanism of suffocation that has already proven fatal. The hazard here is not theoretical. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), four infants have died after being placed unrestrained in the 4-in-1 Rock 'n Glide Soother. These were not isolated accidents involving mechanical failure or product breakage; they were incidents where healthy babies, initially placed on their backs, rolled or shifted position to end up on their stomachs within the moving seat.
The danger lies in the combination of the product’s motion and the lack of restraint. When an infant is unrestrained in a glider that moves head-to-toe or side-to-side, it becomes significantly easier for them to lose their balance or shift their weight unpredictably. Once an infant ends up face-down, their developing neck muscles may not be strong enough to lift their head sufficiently to keep their airway clear. Furthermore, the position of the seat can cause their nose and mouth to become pressed against the fabric or surface, creating a pocket where they cannot breathe. This is called positional asphyxia, and it can occur rapidly, often without any loud signs of distress that would alert a caregiver who is in another room.
You might think that because your specific unit hasn’t caused an incident yet, it is safe to keep using. However, the physics of the hazard do not change based on luck. The model numbers CHP56, CHP55, and CBT81 (for the 4-in-1 Rock 'n Glide) and GDD28, GDD39, GDD41, GGW85, GNX43, GVG43, HBD26, and HBD27 (for the 2-in-1 Soothe 'n Play Glider) all share the same design flaw: they allow an unrestrained infant to assume a prone position while in motion. The four tragic deaths reported between April 2019 and February 2020 involved infants aged 11 weeks to 4 months old. These children were placed on their backs, as is standard safe sleep practice, but the product’s movement facilitated a transition to a dangerous stomach-down position that led to suffocation.
Continuing to use these products also exposes you to the risk of severe injury even if death does not occur. An infant who suffers from positional asphyxia may experience hypoxia, a condition where the brain and other vital organs are deprived of adequate oxygen. This can lead to long-term neurological damage, developmental delays, or permanent health issues. Additionally, the rolling motion of the glider can cause an infant to become trapped or pinned in uncomfortable or dangerous positions, leading to physical injury or extreme distress. The peace of mind a parent seeks from a soothing device is completely undermined when that device becomes a source of silent, rapid danger. By ignoring the recall, you are gambling with your child’s life against odds that have already resulted in multiple fatalities. There is no benefit to keeping the product, only significant risk. Please stop using these items immediately and contact Fisher-Price for your refund.