What was recalled
If you have purchased a double baby stroller from Costway within the last few years, it is important to verify whether your specific model is part of a significant safety recall. On June 25, 2020, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced that Costway was recalling three specific models of infant double strollers due to violations of the Federal Standard for Carriages and Strollers. This recall affects products that were sold under the brand name Costway, but it is crucial to note that these items were manufactured for GoPlus Corp. You can identify this connection by looking at a tag attached to the stroller seat, which reads: "MADE FOR GOPLUS CORP 11250 POPLAR AVE. FONTANA, CA 92337."
The recall covers three distinct models, each designed for carrying two infants or young children simultaneously. The first affected model is the BB4476 Infant Double Stroller, which was available in Red, Gray, and Black color options. The second model is the BB4613 Infant Double Stroller, offered in Black. The third model is the BB4690 Face to Face Double Stroller, which was sold in Gray. These models are specifically engineered as double strollers, meaning they feature two separate seating areas within a single frame, allowing parents to transport twins or siblings of similar ages at once.
While the CPSC recall alert provides detailed information on the models and colors, it does not specify the exact number of units sold nationwide or the specific dates during which these items were available for purchase. However, because these are consumer goods distributed through retail channels, they may have been purchased online or in stores over a period leading up to the recall announcement. If you own a double stroller that matches any of the model numbers listed above—BB4476, BB4613, or BB4690—and it bears the GoPlus Corp tag mentioned earlier, there is a strong possibility your stroller is included in this safety notice.
It is essential to act on this information promptly. The recall was initiated because these strollers do not meet federal safety requirements designed to protect children from serious injury. Even though no incidents have been reported yet, the potential for harm exists within the design of the seat structure. Consumers who are unsure about their purchase should check the model number located on the product frame or documentation and compare it against the list provided by the manufacturer. If your stroller matches one of these models, you should consider it part of this recall until confirmed otherwise.
The hazard, explained
When we talk about the safety of baby strollers, we are often discussing complex engineering standards designed to keep a small, vulnerable passenger secure while in motion. The recent recall by Costway highlights three specific models of double strollers that have been found to violate the Federal Standard for Carriages and Strollers. To understand why this violation is so serious, it helps to look at the physical design flaws identified in these units: the gap between the activity tray and the seat bottom, and the placement of the crotch restraint.
The first major concern involves what is known as an entrapment hazard. In these recalled strollers, there is a dangerous opening between the activity tray (the table-like surface attached to the front) and the actual seat where the child sits. According to safety standards, this gap must be small enough that a child’s head cannot fit through it. However, in the affected Costway models, the space is large enough for a child’s torso to slide through while their head remains trapped on the other side. If a child leans forward or shifts position, their body can pass through the opening, leaving only their neck supported by the edge of the tray. This creates an immediate strangulation risk if the stroller moves suddenly, such as when going over a curb or bump, which could cause the head to be jerked back against the hard plastic edge.
A second, distinct hazard relates to falls caused by inadequate restraint. Strollers are required to have a crotch strap or post to keep a child from sliding out of the seat, especially when the stroller is tilted back or moving downhill. In these specific models, the location of this crotch restraint creates a large, unsecured opening between the bottom of the seat and the restraint itself. For an infant or toddler who is still developing core strength and balance, this gap is wide enough for their body to slip through entirely. Unlike entrapment, which traps the head, this flaw allows the entire child to exit the stroller unexpectedly. This could result in a fall that leads to bruises, fractures, or more severe traumatic injuries depending on the surface below.
While no incidents have been reported so far, safety experts emphasize that these types of mechanical failures are rarely noticed until something goes wrong. The design flaws are subtle and may not be obvious during a quick visual inspection in a store or at home. The violation of the federal standard is significant because that standard exists specifically to prevent these precise scenarios—entrapment and ejection—which are leading causes of stroller-related injuries in young children. Understanding the mechanics of these failures helps explain why the remedy is a full refund rather than a simple repair; the fundamental geometry of the seat and tray cannot be easily fixed with an aftermarket part.
Who is most at risk
The primary individuals at risk in this recall are young children who are active enough to climb into or out of the stroller independently, but still lack the physical maturity and cognitive awareness to keep their heads clear of narrow openings. Specifically, toddlers and infants who are in the stage where they are becoming more mobile and curious are the most vulnerable. These are children who may attempt to sit up higher than intended, lean forward aggressively, or shift their weight unexpectedly while seated. The design flaw creates a specific geometric trap: the gap between the activity tray and the seat bottom is wide enough for a child’s torso to slip through, yet narrow enough that their head can become lodged. This is not a risk for newborns who are typically reclined and secured by heavy harnesses, nor is it primarily a risk for older children who have outgrown this type of equipment. It targets the critical window of early mobility.
The vulnerability stems from the fact that young children have disproportionately large heads compared to the rest of their bodies. When a child’s torso slips through the opening, gravity and momentum often pull the head down into the gap. Once the head is stuck, the child cannot push themselves back out. This entrapment poses an immediate strangulation hazard because the pressure on the neck can restrict breathing, even if the child is not fully suspended in the air. Furthermore, the lack of a proper crotch post means that a child who manages to slip their torso through may also slide completely out of the seat, leading to a fall from height. This double threat—entanglement and ejection—is particularly dangerous for children under the age of three, whose neck muscles are not strong enough to lift their own weight if they become stuck.
Parents and caregivers are also at significant risk, though in a different way. The stress of managing a child who is trapped or falling from a stroller can lead to panic-induced injuries for the adult, such as back strain from awkward lifting positions or loss of balance while trying to restrain the moving stroller. Additionally, the psychological trauma experienced by both the child and the caregiver from such an incident can be profound. The risk is heightened in situations where the stroller is being used on uneven terrain, slopes, or near stairs, where a fall could result in head trauma or fractures. While no incidents have been reported yet, the potential for severe harm is high because the hazard is inherent to the product's design rather than dependent on user error or wear and tear. The risk is present every time the stroller is used, regardless of how carefully it is handled.
- Active toddlers: Children who can sit up unassisted and move their torsos freely are most likely to slip through the gap.
- Children with larger head circumferences: Those whose heads are too large to pull back out once the torso has passed through the opening.
- Users on inclines: Families using the stroller on hills or uneven ground face increased fall risks due to the missing crotch restraint.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
If you own a double stroller purchased from Costway, taking a moment to verify its specific details is the most important step you can take right now. Because this recall targets three specific models of infant double strollers, relying on a general description like "double stroller" is not enough. You need to look for precise physical markers and documentation tags that distinguish these recalled units from safe alternatives. The primary way to identify your product is by checking the model number, which serves as the unique fingerprint for each batch of equipment manufactured.
To begin your identification process, locate the tag attached directly to the stroller seat. This label is crucial because it contains the manufacturer’s information and helps confirm the origin of the item. You are looking for a tag that explicitly reads: "MADE FOR GOPLUS CORP 11250 POPLAR AVE. FONTANA, CA 92337." If your stroller bears this specific address and corporate designation, it is part of the group under investigation. This detail is vital because other double strollers manufactured by different companies or sold by different retailers with similar appearances may not be included in this specific safety alert.
Next, examine the model number printed on that same tag or on the product packaging if you still have it. The recall covers exactly three configurations of double strollers, so your unit must match one of the following codes to be considered part of the recall:
- BB4476: This is the Infant Double Stroller. It was available in three color variations: Red, Gray, and Black.
- BB4613: This model is also an Infant Double Stroller but is specifically identified by the color Black.
- BB4690: This is the Face to Face Double Stroller, which was sold in Gray.
If your stroller matches any of these model numbers and color combinations, you should stop using it immediately. The design flaws related to entrapment and strangulation are inherent to the structure of these specific models, not just individual units with manufacturing defects. It is important to note that the recall does not specify a retail price or a specific store location where these were sold, but rather focuses on the product identity itself. Therefore, even if you bought the stroller second-hand, at an auction, or as a gift, it remains subject to this recall if the model number and tag details align.
Do not rely solely on memory or vague descriptions. If you are unsure about the model number because the tag has faded or fallen off, check your original receipt, email confirmation, or credit card statement for the item description. Costway is actively contacting all known purchasers directly, but taking proactive steps to verify your possession of one of these three models ensures that you do not miss the window for a full refund, including taxes and original shipping costs.
What to do — step by step
If you own one of the recalled Costway baby strollers, your immediate priority is to ensure the safety of the child who would use it. The risk involved here—specifically entrapment and strangulation due to head clearance issues, as well as fall hazards from the crotch restraint design—is serious enough that no amount of careful supervision can fully mitigate it. Therefore, the first and most critical step is to stop using the stroller immediately. Do not wait for a repair kit or further instructions before taking this action. Place the stroller in a secure location where a child cannot access it, such as a locked garage, basement, or closet. This physical barrier is your primary defense against accidental use while you sort out the logistics of the recall process. It is vital to understand that "stopping use" does not mean storing it for later; it means removing it from your daily routine entirely until the remedy is complete. Once the stroller is safely stored, you need to initiate the contact process with the manufacturer. Costway has established two specific channels for consumers to reach them regarding this recall. You may call their toll-free number at 844-242-1885. When you call, be aware that their support team is available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday. If you prefer written communication or if the phone lines are busy, you can send an email to recall@costway.com. Whether you choose to call or email, have your model number and proof of purchase ready if possible, as this will help them verify your eligibility for the remedy quickly. The company has stated that they are also contacting all known purchasers directly, so check your email inbox and physical mail for any correspondence from Costway regarding this specific alert. The remedy provided in this recall is a full refund, which includes both the original purchase price of the stroller and the taxes, as well as the original shipping costs. This is a significant benefit that ensures you are not financially penalized for a safety defect you did not cause. To receive this refund, you will need to follow the specific instructions provided by Costway during your contact with them. Typically, this involves returning the item, but because the remedy includes shipping costs, the company may provide a prepaid shipping label or arrange for a pickup. Do not assume you must pay for return shipping yourself; the recall terms explicitly cover these expenses. As you navigate this process, keep records of all your communications. Save copies of emails sent and received, and note the date and time of any phone calls, including the name of the representative you spoke with. If you are returning the stroller, take photos of it before packing and keep the tracking number for the shipment. This documentation serves as proof that you complied with the recall notice promptly. If you encounter any delays or difficulties in receiving your refund, these records will be invaluable if you need to escalate the issue. Remember, the goal is to remove a potentially dangerous product from your home and restore your peace of mind without financial loss.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have determined that you own one of the recalled Costway baby strollers, it is important to understand exactly how the remedy works and what you can expect during the process. In this specific recall, there is no option for a simple repair kit or a partial credit toward a new item. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has required that the manufacturer, Costway, provide a full refund to all affected consumers. This means you will get your money back, including the original purchase price of the stroller as well as any sales taxes and the original shipping costs you paid when you bought it. The goal here is to make you financially whole, as if the transaction never happened, allowing you to replace the unsafe item with a different product that meets current safety standards without losing any money.
You do not need to take the first step in contacting the company; Costway has committed to reaching out to all known purchasers directly. This proactive measure is designed to reduce stress and ensure that every affected customer is aware of the recall and their rights. You should keep an eye on your email inbox, phone calls, or mail for communication from Costway regarding this matter. If they contact you, follow their instructions carefully to initiate the refund process. They will likely guide you through returning the item or provide a prepaid shipping label if required, though specific logistics may vary based on their current operational procedures.
If you have not heard from Costway within a reasonable amount of time, or if you purchased the stroller from a third-party retailer and cannot wait for the manufacturer’s outreach, you can take matters into your own hands. You are encouraged to contact Costway directly to inquire about the status of your refund. You can reach their dedicated recall support team by calling their toll-free number at 844-242-1885. This line is available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you may send an email to recall@costway.com for written correspondence. When you contact them, have your order confirmation, receipt, or the model number of your stroller ready to help them locate your purchase quickly.
Please note that while the company is handling the administrative side of the refund, you are still responsible for the safety aspect of the remedy. Once you receive confirmation that your refund has been processed, do not simply put the stroller back in your garage or donate it to a thrift store. The hazard described—specifically the risk of head entrapment and strangulation due to the gap between the activity tray and seat bottom, as well as the fall hazard from the crotch restraint—is serious enough that the item must be taken out of circulation entirely. You should destroy the stroller or render it unusable so that no one else can accidentally use it. By following these steps, you ensure your child’s safety and complete the recall process correctly.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable why you might hesitate to stop using a stroller that has been recalled. Perhaps the model fits perfectly into your car’s trunk. Maybe the double-stroller design is the only one that accommodates your children’s ages and needs right now. Or perhaps the inconvenience of finding a replacement, packing up the old one, and waiting for a refund feels overwhelming when you are already managing the daily logistics of parenting. You might think, "It hasn’t happened to me yet," or "I just watch them closely." While it is true that the CPSC notes no incidents have been reported for these specific Costway models as of the recall date, relying on luck is not a safety strategy. The hazards embedded in the design are active and present every time you push the stroller, regardless of how carefully you monitor your child. The primary danger lies in the gap between the activity tray and the seat bottom. For infants and toddlers who are still growing into their bodies, this space can be deceptively dangerous. If a child leans forward or shifts position, their torso may slip through the opening while their head remains caught on the edge of the tray or the frame above. This is not merely a pinch hazard; it is an entrapment scenario. Once the head is trapped, the child cannot free themselves. Because the neck is smaller than the skull, even a small amount of pressure or tension on the neck can rapidly restrict breathing. In a strangulation event, seconds count. A parent who is focused on navigating a crowded sidewalk, checking their phone, or managing another child may not notice the subtle signs of distress until it is too late. The design flaw creates a mechanical trap that no amount of vigilant supervision can fully neutralize, because children move unpredictably and quickly. Additionally, the placement of the crotch restraint introduces a significant fall risk. The recall specifies that this restraint creates a large opening between the seat bottom and the restraint itself. In a standard stroller, the crotch strap is designed to keep the child seated securely. Here, it fails to do so effectively. As you navigate bumps, curbs, or uneven pavement, the jostling motion can allow a child to slide sideways or forward out of the seat. If the child falls from the stroller, they risk impact injuries to their head, limbs, or torso. This is particularly concerning for double strollers, where parents may be managing two children simultaneously. The structural integrity of the seating area is compromised by these design flaws, meaning the stroller cannot perform its most basic function: keeping the child safely contained while in motion. Ignoring the recall means continuing to expose your children to these unmitigated risks. There is no "wear-in" period for safety defects; if the hazard exists today, it will exist tomorrow. The CPSC issues recalls because engineering flaws are predictable and preventable. By waiting, you are not gaining any benefit, but you are allowing a known danger to remain in your home. The remedy offered—a full refund including taxes and shipping—is designed to remove this risk entirely from your life. Choosing to keep the stroller is a choice to gamble with your child’s safety against a defect that has been officially identified as non-compliant with federal standards.Staying safe: broader tips
Purchasing a high-quality stroller is only the first step in ensuring your child’s safety on the go. Beyond simply checking for recalls, proactive habits can significantly reduce risks associated with entrapment, falls, and strangulation. One of the most critical, yet often overlooked, aspects of stroller safety is the proper use and adjustment of all restraint systems. It is not enough to simply buckle a child in; parents must ensure that the crotch post or strap is positioned correctly to prevent sliding out, while simultaneously verifying that there are no excessive gaps between the tray, the seat bottom, and the restraints where a head or limb could become trapped. Regularly inspecting these mechanisms for wear and tear ensures they function as intended, maintaining the structural integrity of the safety barriers designed to keep your child secure.
Vigilance during use is equally important. Always engage the parking brake whenever you step away from the stroller, even for a moment. This simple action prevents the unit from rolling down inclines or being nudged by wind or other pedestrians, which could cause a fall. Additionally, be mindful of what you hang on the handlebars. Overloading the storage basket or hanging heavy bags on the handle can shift the center of gravity, making the stroller prone to tipping forward—a dangerous scenario that can quickly escalate into an entrapment or crush hazard if a child is leaning forward. Keeping the load balanced and light helps maintain stability.
Finally, establishing a routine for monitoring product safety updates is a powerful tool for long-term peace of mind. Manufacturers occasionally identify defects after a product has been sold, leading to recalls that address specific risks you might not have noticed yourself. By registering your products with the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) or subscribing to their email alerts, you ensure that you receive immediate notification if a safety issue is discovered with an item you own. This proactive approach allows you to act quickly, whether by following remedy instructions or simply staying informed, rather than waiting for a potential incident to highlight a problem. Staying connected to these official channels transforms passive ownership into active protection, ensuring your family remains safe as new information becomes available.