Cheyenne Products Recalls Folding Chairs and Barstools Due to Fall Hazard

What was recalled

In May 2021, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant recall involving folding chairs and barstools manufactured by Cheyenne Products. It is important to clarify that while Cheyenne Products is the manufacturer responsible for this safety action, these items were sold under the Mainstay brand name. Mainstay is a well-known house brand typically found in major retail chains across the country, which means many households may have purchased these chairs without immediately realizing they were made by Cheyenne. The recall affects multiple styles of metal folding chairs and barstools, specifically those featuring padded seats upholstered in either vinyl or microfiber materials.

The scope of this recall is quite broad, covering a wide array of model numbers that span different seat heights, paint colors, and production dates. Cheyenne Products identified specific UPC codes and corresponding model numbers to help consumers pinpoint their exact items. The affected models include the FB1477 series (available in 18-inch height with black paint and beige padding), as well as various revisions like the FB1477-R and CPFB1477-R. There are also commercial-grade versions, such as the FB1477FL-COM and CPFB1477FL-COM, which feature brown upholstery instead of beige. Additionally, the recall encompasses the FB1479 series in 24-inch and 29-inch heights with bronze paint, and the FBS99 and FBS133 series, which come in both 24-inch and 29/30-inch heights. These latter models are available in bronze or gun metal grey finishes and may have beige or brown padding depending on the specific SKU.

Identifying whether you own a recalled item requires checking the white sticker labels located on the bottom of the seat. One label will display either "Cheyenne Products" or "Cheyenne Industries," along with the production date in month/year format. A second white sticker will show a barcode with the model number printed above it and the UPC code below it. The production dates for these recalled units vary significantly, ranging from as early as July 2013 to as late as April 2021. For instance, some FBS99-24 models were produced between July 2013 and March 2021, while certain FB1477-R models were manufactured between May 2016 and June 2019. Because these chairs have been in circulation for nearly a decade, it is highly likely that many of these units are still in active use in homes, offices, and event spaces today.

The sheer volume of affected units underscores the importance of this recall. While the specific total number of units sold globally is not broken down in the summary, the wide range of UPCs and extended production dates indicates a massive distribution network. These chairs were widely available through retail partners that carry Mainstay brand furniture. If you have any metal folding chair or barstool with a padded seat purchased from major retailers over the past several years, it is worth taking a few minutes to inspect the underside for the Cheyenne labels and cross-referencing the model number against the recall list.

The hazard, explained

At the heart of this recall is a structural failure in the weld that connects the chair’s legs to the seat bottom. When you sit in one of these folding chairs or barstools, your body weight and any movement you make while standing up or shifting position place significant stress on every point where metal components join together. In a well-made chair, the weld is strong enough to handle these forces repeatedly over time. However, in the affected Cheyenne Products models, the weld attaching the legs to the seat can break. This is not just a minor crack; it is a complete separation of the structural support.

Why does this matter? Because when that weld fails, the leg detaches from the seat. Imagine you are sitting comfortably, perhaps reading or eating dinner, and suddenly one or more legs give way beneath you. The chair does not just wobble; it collapses. This sudden loss of support turns a mundane activity into a dangerous fall. You might drop to the floor, twist your ankle, or hit your head on nearby furniture. The hazard is particularly acute because the failure can happen without warning. There may be no loud noise or obvious sign that the weld is about to fail until it actually does.

The CPSC has received 41 reports of incidents where this specific weld broke. These are not just close calls; they have resulted in 19 injuries. Among these injuries, four people suffered fractures, and one person tore a ligament. Fractures often occur when a person tries to break their fall with an outstretched hand or when a leg is trapped under the collapsing chair. A torn ligament suggests a sudden, violent twisting motion as the body falls unexpectedly. These outcomes highlight that even if you are just sitting still, the risk is real.

This type of hazard is common in folding furniture because the joints are high-stress points. Over time, metal fatigue can weaken welds, especially if they were not manufactured to high standards or were damaged during shipping. Once a weld starts to fail, it weakens further with each use until it snaps under normal weight. The affected chairs include both standard folding chairs and taller barstools, meaning the fall distance can vary, but the risk of injury remains high regardless of height. Always check your furniture for signs of wear, but remember that internal weld failures may not be visible until it is too late.

Who is most at risk

While this recall affects a broad range of consumers who purchased Mainstay brand folding chairs and barstools from various retailers, the physical reality of the hazard means that certain groups face significantly higher risks than others. The core issue is structural failure: the weld connecting the legs to the seat bottom can break unexpectedly under normal use. This is not a gradual wear-and-tear issue that gives warning signs; it is a sudden, catastrophic loss of support. Therefore, anyone relying on these chairs for stability—whether they are sitting down, standing up, or shifting their weight—is potentially at risk. However, the consequences of that failure are not distributed equally across all demographics.

Children and young adults are often the primary users of these types of folding chairs due to their affordability and portability. These individuals may be more prone to dynamic movements while seated, such as leaning back excessively, bouncing, or shifting abruptly. Because the recalled units involve a critical weld failure, any sudden shift in weight distribution can exceed the weakened point's capacity. A child sitting on the edge of a barstool, for instance, places significant leverage on the leg attachments. If that weld gives way, the result is an immediate fall from height. The risk here is compounded by the fact that younger users may not instinctively brace themselves as effectively as adults when they feel instability beginning.

Elderly individuals and those with mobility challenges or balance issues are arguably the most vulnerable group in this scenario. As noted in the incident reports, there have been 19 injuries recorded, including four fractures and one torn ligament. For an older adult, a fall from a chair that is typically 24 to 29 inches high (as seen in models like FB1479-R-29 or FBS99-30) can lead to severe hip fractures, head trauma, or long-term loss of independence. The recalled chairs are often used as guest seating or for temporary dining arrangements where users may not be accustomed to their specific center of gravity. If a senior citizen leans forward to reach a table or stands up quickly, the sudden collapse of the chair leg can cause them to fall backward or sideways onto hard flooring, with little time to react.

Additionally, individuals with lower body strength or those recovering from surgery are at heightened risk. These users often rely on furniture for support during the transition from sitting to standing. A barstool that suddenly loses its structural integrity while bearing their weight can result in them dropping onto the floor rather than standing up safely. The unpredictability of the weld failure makes it particularly dangerous for anyone who cannot easily recover from a fall or who has fragile bones. It is not just about who sits in the chair, but who depends on that chair to remain steadfast when their body weight shifts. For these populations, the difference between a stable seat and a broken weld is the difference between safety and serious injury.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

Identifying whether your furniture is part of this recall requires a careful look at a few specific details. The primary thing to know is that these chairs and barstools were sold under the Mainstay brand name, even though the manufacturer is Cheyenne Products (also listed as Cheyenne Industries). You might have purchased these items at major retailers like Walmart or online stores, but the key to identification lies in the labels attached directly to the product itself.

To confirm if your item is affected, you need to flip the chair or barstool over and examine the bottom of the seat. There should be two distinct white sticker labels adhered there. The first label will display the name "Cheyenne Products" or "Cheyenne Industries" along with the production date in a month/year format. This tells you roughly when it was made, but not exactly which model it is.

The second label is crucial for determining if your specific unit is included in this recall. Look for a white sticker that features a barcode. Directly above this barcode, you will find the model number. Directly below the barcode, you will see the UPC (Universal Product Code). It is vital to record both of these numbers, as the recall covers a wide range of specific configurations.

The affected models are not limited to one style; they include various metal folding chairs and barstools with padded seats upholstered in either vinyl or microfiber. These come in different seat heights (18", 24", or 29"), paint colors (such as Black, Bronze, or Gun Metal Grey), and padding colors (Beige or Brown). Because there are so many variations, you must check the specific UPC numbers listed below against the ones on your chair. If your UPC matches any of the following, your item is recalled:

• UPC 050276993391 (Model FB1477)
• UPC 050276996712 (Models FB1477-R, CPFB1477-R)
• UPC 050276994480 (Models FB1477FL-COM, CPFB1477FL-COM)
• UPC 050276993445 (Model FB1479-24)
• UPC 050276996699 (Models FB1479-R-24, CPFB1479-R-24)
• UPC 050276993414 (Model FB1479)
• UPC 050276996705 (Models FB1479-R-29, CPFB1479-R-29)
• UPC 050276984863 (Models FBS99-24, CPFBS-24)
• UPC 050276994466 (Models FBS99-24FL-COM, CPFBS99-24FL-COM)
• UPC 050276994473 (Models FBS99-29FL-COM, CPFBS99-29FL-COM)
• UPC 050276984870 (Model FBS99-30, CPFBS99-30)
• UPC 050276984887 (Models FBS133-24, CPFBS133-24)
• UPC 050276994497 (Models FBS133-24FL-COM, CPFBS133-24L-COM)
• UPC 050276994503 (Models FBS133-29FL-COM, CPFBS133-29FL-COM)
• UPC 050276984894 (Model FBS133-30, CPFBS133-30)

If you cannot find these labels or if the numbers do not match any listed above, your item is likely safe from this specific recall. However, if you are unsure, it is always best to err on the side of caution and check the official Cheyenne Products recall page for the most complete and updated listing.

What to do — step by step

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

If you have determined that your folding chair or barstool is part of this recall, the good news is that the remedy is straightforward and fully covered by the manufacturer. Unlike some recalls that offer partial credits, store vouchers, or require you to pay for shipping parts, Cheyenne Products has agreed to provide a full refund for the recalled items. This means you will get your money back for the entire purchase price, with no hidden fees or deductions. The company is taking full responsibility for the defect, so you do not need to negotiate terms or worry about restocking charges. Your only obligation is to contact them through their official recall channels to initiate the process.

To receive your refund, you must reach out to Cheyenne Products directly using one of the three methods they have established for this specific safety notice. You can call their dedicated toll-free hotline at 833-351-1707. This line is staffed during standard business hours, specifically from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Time, Monday through Friday. If you prefer written communication or need to send documentation, you can email them directly at cheyennerecall@nbg-home.com. For those who like to manage their purchases online, you can also visit www.cheyenneproducts.com and navigate to the "Recalls" section for additional information and a complete listing of the affected styles.

When you contact Cheyenne, be prepared to provide specific details about your unit to help them verify that it falls within the recall scope. It is helpful to have the UPC barcode number and the model number ready, as these are printed on the white sticker labels located on the bottom of the seat. The sticker will also show the production date by month and year, which confirms whether your specific chair was manufactured during the affected timeframes. Having this information on hand will speed up the verification process and ensure you get your refund without unnecessary delays.

The "why" behind this remedy is rooted in the severity of the hazard. Because the weld attaching the legs to the seat bottom can break unexpectedly, leading to falls and serious injuries like fractures or torn ligaments, the risk cannot be mitigated by a simple repair kit or a warning label. The structural integrity of the chair is compromised at a critical stress point, making it unsafe for any user regardless of weight or usage habits. Therefore, a full refund is the most appropriate solution, allowing you to remove the dangerous item from your home and replace it with a safer alternative. Please do not attempt to weld or reinforce the chair yourself, as this may not restore the original safety standards and could create new hazards.

Once you have successfully processed your refund, please ensure you dispose of or destroy the recalled chair so that no one else attempts to use it. Even if it looks intact, the internal weld failure risk remains unpredictable. By following these steps and utilizing the contact options provided by Cheyenne Products, you are taking a definitive action to protect yourself and your family from fall hazards. Remember, this is a voluntary safety recall initiated by the manufacturer in cooperation with the CPSC, and they have committed to making this process as easy and cost-free for you as possible.

What can happen if you ignore it

It is natural to feel reluctant to discard a piece of furniture that still looks and functions perfectly fine on the surface. When a chair seems stable and sturdy, the idea that it might fail unexpectedly can feel abstract or unlikely. However, ignoring this recall carries significant and tangible risks because the defect is not merely cosmetic; it is structural. The specific issue lies in the weld that connects the legs to the seat bottom. This joint is under constant stress every time you sit down, stand up, or shift your weight. Over time, even with normal use, a compromised weld can fatigue and eventually snap without warning.

The consequences of this failure are not just about losing a chair; they are about personal safety. If the weld breaks while you are seated, you will fall directly onto the floor. This is not a minor stumble but a sudden loss of support from a height that can vary depending on the model. For barstools, which sit higher off the ground than standard chairs, the drop distance increases, potentially leading to more severe impacts. The CPSC data highlights that this is not a hypothetical scenario. There have already been 41 reported incidents where the weld connecting the legs to the bottom of the chair broke. These are real events involving real people, resulting in 19 documented injuries.

The nature of these injuries underscores the seriousness of the hazard. Among the reported cases, there were four fractures and one torn ligament. A fracture from a fall out of a barstool or folding chair can range from hairline cracks to complex breaks requiring surgery and extended recovery time. A torn ligament can lead to long-term instability in joints like the knee or ankle, affecting your mobility for months or even years. These injuries often occur when you instinctively try to catch yourself, but with no stable base to grab onto, the force of the fall is transferred directly to your bones and soft tissues.

Beyond the immediate physical trauma, there are secondary risks. If you fall while holding hot food, a beverage, or sharp objects, you risk burns, cuts, or further injury from broken glassware. For older adults or anyone with balance issues, a fall of this nature can be particularly dangerous, potentially leading to head injuries or hip fractures that have serious long-term health implications. The fear of falling can also cause people to avoid using their own furniture, leading to a loss of comfort and convenience in their homes. By addressing the issue now, you are not just following a regulation; you are protecting yourself and your family from preventable harm. The peace of mind that comes with knowing your seating is safe is worth far more than the time it takes to process a refund.

Staying safe: broader tips

While this specific recall addresses a manufacturing defect in certain metal folding chairs and barstools, the underlying issue—a structural weld failing under weight or movement—is a common concern with many types of portable furniture. When you invest in items designed to be moved, folded, or adjusted, you are relying entirely on the integrity of their joints and connections. These points of stress are where fatigue sets in over time. Unlike solid wood or welded-to-the-floor fixtures, folding mechanisms create multiple weak links. The most critical step you can take for long-term safety is to treat every piece of furniture with a regular inspection routine. Look for small cracks in the metal near welds, listen for unusual creaking or shifting when you sit down, and check that all locking pins and hinges engage fully before use. If a joint feels loose or wobbly, do not wait for it to break completely; discontinue use immediately.

It is also vital to understand the limits of your furniture’s design. Many consumers assume that because a chair looks sturdy, it can handle dynamic forces like leaning back, shifting weight abruptly, or supporting more than one person. Folding chairs and barstools are engineered for static loads, not kinetic energy. Leaning back on a folding chair places immense torque on the leg-to-seat welds, exactly the kind of stress that can cause a failure if the metal has already been compromised by age or manufacturing variances. Always sit upright with your feet flat on the floor, and never stand on the seat to reach high shelves. This simple habit prevents the kind of sudden, uneven pressure that often leads to falls.

Beyond physical usage, staying informed is your best defense against hidden defects. Manufacturers release recalls for good reason: they have identified a pattern of failure that could lead to injury. You do not need to check for recalls every day, but making it a habit to review the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website quarterly can save you from potential danger. Sign up for email alerts from the CPSC so that important safety notices land directly in your inbox. Additionally, keep your purchase receipts or order confirmations in a dedicated folder. Knowing when and where you bought an item helps you quickly determine if it falls within a specific recall window, especially for products that may have been sold years ago under different brand names.

• Inspect regularly: Check welds and joints every few months for rust, cracks, or looseness.
• Respect weight limits: Never exceed the manufacturer’s stated capacity, and avoid leaning back on folding chairs.
• Stay informed: Subscribe to CPSC safety alerts and review them during seasonal home maintenance checks.
• Store properly: When not in use, store folding furniture in a dry place to prevent corrosion that weakens metal components.