What was recalled
In August 2019, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant recall involving home goods from the luxury retailer Restoration Hardware, commonly known as RH. This action was taken because specific batches of their popular "Ultra-Soft Turkish Robe" failed to meet mandatory federal safety standards for clothing textiles. The recall affects adult, unisex robes that were marketed as a comfortable, high-quality garment made from 100% cotton terry cloth. These robes were designed with long sleeves, two front pockets, and an accompanying belt, offering a classic bathrobe silhouette intended for relaxation and comfort after bathing.
The specific items subject to this recall are easily identifiable by their material composition and origin. Each robe is made entirely of 100% cotton, woven into the familiar terry texture known for its absorbency and softness. A crucial detail for identification is the manufacturing origin: these robes were made in Turkey. On the sewn-in side label of each garment, you will find specific regulatory identifiers printed directly onto the fabric. Look for an RN number (Registered Identification Number) of 104581 and a CA number (Cotton Association Identifier) of 55697. These numbers are standard industry codes that link the garment back to its manufacturer and fiber content, serving as a definitive marker that the item falls under this specific recall notice.
The recalled robes were offered in a variety of colors and sizes to suit different consumer preferences. Shoppers could purchase them in black, dark gray, light gray, green, and white. The sizing range was inclusive, covering extra-small (XS), small (S), medium (M), large (L), and extra-large (XL). Additionally, RH offered a personalization service for these items, meaning some of the recalled units may have been custom monogrammed with initials or names. Because of this customization option, visual inspection of the style and label is essential, as personalized robes might not be immediately recognizable as part of the standard inventory.
If you are trying to determine whether your robe is part of this recall, it is important to note that while the CPSC announcement provides the core facts about the product description, brand, hazard, and remedy, specific details such as the total number of units sold or the exact dates and locations where they were available for purchase are not fully detailed in the provided recall record. However, the key identifiers remain consistent: any RH "Ultra-Soft Turkish Robe" made in Turkey with RN 104581 and CA 55697 should be treated with caution until verified through the official remedy process. The recall was officially dated August 30, 2019, marking the point at which consumers were formally notified to stop using these specific garments due to safety concerns.
The hazard, explained
At the heart of this recall is a fundamental mismatch between how the robe is made and how federal safety laws require clothing to behave around fire. The specific issue lies in flammability, which refers to how easily a material ignites and how quickly it burns once lit. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has determined that these RH Turkish robes fail to meet the mandatory flammability standards for clothing textiles. In plain terms, this means the fabric does not resist burning well enough to be considered safe for everyday wear in a typical home environment.
To understand why this matters, it helps to look at what physically happens when clothing that is too flammable comes into contact with an ignition source. The recalled robes are made of 100% cotton terry. While cotton is a natural fiber and often feels soft and absorbent, its safety profile depends heavily on how it is treated during manufacturing. Clothing textiles intended for general consumer use must be treated or woven in a way that slows down the spread of flame. When a garment fails this standard, it can ignite rapidly upon exposure to even a small spark or open flame.
Once ignited, a non-compliant robe can burn with unusual speed and intensity. This rapid combustion is what transforms a minor accident into a serious burn injury. The heat generated by the burning fabric transfers directly to the skin, causing damage that can range from first-degree redness to severe, life-threatening burns depending on exposure time and proximity to the flame. Because the robe is worn close to the body, the flames have very little distance to travel before reaching the consumer’s skin.
The incident reports attached to this recall illustrate exactly how this mechanism plays out in real life. According to RH, there have been three reported incidents in the United States and one in Canada where the robes ignited while consumers were operating a gas stove. Gas stoves produce open flames and pilot lights that are constant sources of ignition. If a flammable robe drifts too close to a burner or a spark ignites the fabric, the lack of flame-retardant properties allows the fire to spread across the garment almost instantly. Although no injuries have been reported in these specific cases, the potential for harm is significant because the outcome depends on how quickly the person can react and remove the burning fabric.
This hazard is not unique to one brand but is a well-known risk with untreated cotton textiles near open flames. The federal standard exists precisely to prevent scenarios where ordinary clothing becomes a fuel source. By failing this test, these robes lose the protective barrier that keeps wearable items safe during accidental slips near kitchens or other areas with heat sources. The remedy for this physical vulnerability is not to change how you wear the robe, but to remove it from your wardrobe entirely until you receive a full refund.
Who is most at risk
The primary group at risk for this specific recall consists of anyone who currently owns an RH "Ultra-Soft Turkish Robe" that matches the detailed description provided in the official notice. Because the hazard is tied to a material failure—specifically, the fabric’s inability to meet federal flammability standards—the risk is not limited to how the robe is worn, but rather to its chemical and physical reaction to open flames or high heat sources. While the recall affects all owners regardless of age, the potential consequences of ignition vary significantly based on the user's physical characteristics and daily habits.
Adults who frequently wear these robes in or near kitchen areas represent a distinct category of concern. The incident reports associated with this recall specifically mention that the robes ignited while consumers were operating a gas stove. This places individuals who cook regularly, particularly those who prefer to wear comfortable loungewear like bathrobes while preparing meals, at immediate risk. If a robe ignites due to a gas burner’s pilot light or flame, the speed at which 100% cotton terry fabric can burn may outpace a person's ability to react. For anyone who spends time in the kitchen, this creates a direct pathway from a common household activity to a severe burn injury.
Elderly consumers and individuals with limited mobility face heightened vulnerability for several physiological reasons. First, reaction times slow with age; if a garment catches fire, the critical seconds required to remove it may be too long to prevent second or third-degree burns. Second, skin in older adults is often thinner and more fragile, meaning that even brief exposure to flame or intense radiant heat can cause severe tissue damage much faster than it would on younger, thicker skin. Furthermore, if an individual has reduced dexterity or strength, removing a heavy, wet, or burning cotton robe can be physically difficult, potentially trapping them in contact with the source of ignition.
Children are also a particularly sensitive demographic regarding flammability hazards, although this recall targets adult-sized robes (XS through XL). If a child were to wear an ill-fitting adult robe, the excess fabric could drape over legs or pool on the floor, increasing the surface area exposed to heat sources. Cotton, while natural, can sustain ignition once ignited if it does not meet safety standards. The risk here is compounded by the fact that children may not recognize the danger of a small flame on their clothing as quickly as an adult would, delaying their escape from the hazard. Therefore, the combination of slower cognitive processing and larger, looser fabric creates a dangerous scenario for younger users who might access these garments.
Ultimately, the risk is universal to anyone in proximity to open flames while wearing the garment. However, it is most acute for those who combine the use of these robes with activities involving gas stoves, fireplaces, or other direct heat sources. The hazard does not discriminate by gender, as the robe is unisex, but it demands respect from every user. Understanding that the fabric itself is the weak link in the chain of safety helps clarify why even a single spark can lead to serious injury, making immediate removal from use the most critical step for all owners.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
If you own a robe from Restoration Hardware (RH) and are wondering whether it falls under this specific safety recall, the most reliable way to confirm is by examining the physical garment itself. Because the recall targets a very specific product line rather than every item sold by the brand, you need to look for precise details on the label and the construction of the robe. Do not rely solely on memory or general descriptions; the devil is in the details, particularly regarding where the item was made and what materials were used.
Your first step should be to locate the sewn-in side label inside the robe. This is typically found on the interior seam, often near the hip or waist area. On this label, you must verify that the item was made in Turkey. This geographic detail is critical because the recalled items were specifically manufactured there. Alongside the country of origin, look for two specific regulatory numbers printed on that same label: an RN number of 104581 and a CA number of 55697. These identifiers are unique to this batch and production run. If these numbers are missing or if the robe was made in a different country, it is likely not part of this specific recall, though you should always double-check with RH directly if you are unsure.
Next, examine the fabric composition and style. The recalled product is strictly the "Ultra-Soft Turkish Robe." It must be 100% cotton terry cloth. If your robe is made of a different material, such as microfiber, bamboo, or a cotton blend, it is not included in this recall. The robes are designed for adults and are unisex, meaning they are marketed to all genders. Visually, the recalled robes feature long sleeves and two front pockets. They also come with a matching belt for closure. While the robes could be monogrammed upon purchase, the presence or absence of custom letters does not determine whether the item is recalled; the base product specifications do.
Finally, check the color and size options to see if they match the affected inventory. The recall covers robes sold in five specific colors: black, dark gray, light gray, green, and white. In terms of sizing, the affected items were available in extra-small (XS), small (S), medium (M), large (L), and extra-large (XL). If you have a robe that matches all these criteria—the Turkish origin, the specific RN/CA numbers, the 100% cotton terry fabric, the long-sleeved pocketed design, and one of the listed colors or sizes—you should treat it as part of the recall. When in doubt, the safest approach is to stop using the garment immediately and contact RH for verification before proceeding with the refund process.
What to do — step by step
If you own one of the recalled RH "Ultra-Soft Turkish Robes," the most important thing you can do right now is to remove the garment from your daily routine. The Consumer Product Safety Commission has identified a serious safety risk: these robes do not meet federal flammability standards for clothing textiles. This means that in the event of exposure to an open flame or intense heat, the material could ignite more easily than standard bathrobes are designed to withstand. Therefore, your first and most critical step is to immediately stop using the recalled robes. Do not wear them while cooking, standing near a fireplace, or engaging in any activity where sparks or flames might be present. Treat the robe as you would a potentially hazardous tool—put it away in a closet or storage area where it cannot be accidentally grabbed and worn.
Once you have secured the robe out of sight, your next step is to initiate the remedy process directly with RH. The company has committed to providing a full refund of the purchase price to all affected consumers. To begin this process, you should contact RH through one of their designated recall channels. You can call their dedicated consumer service line at 800-762-1751. It is helpful to keep in mind their hours of operation: they are available from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. Pacific Time on Mondays through Fridays, and from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific Time on Saturdays and Sundays. Having your phone handy during these windows will ensure you can speak with a representative without delay.
If you prefer written communication or wish to have a record of your interaction, you may also email RH directly at recall@rh.com. Alternatively, you can navigate to the official website at www.restorationhardware.com. Once there, scroll down to the very bottom of the page and click on the "Safety Recalls" link. This section will provide further details specific to this recall and guide you through the final steps of claiming your refund. When you contact RH, have your order information ready if possible, though the recall notice indicates that a full refund is available regardless. By following these steps promptly, you ensure your safety while resolving the issue efficiently. Remember, no injuries have been reported so far, but three incidents in the U.S. and one in Canada involved the robes igniting near gas stoves. Taking immediate action prevents any potential escalation of risk.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
When you discover that a product in your home has been recalled due to a safety hazard, the immediate reaction is often a mix of frustration and concern. It is completely natural to wonder what happens next and how the company intends to make things right. In this specific case involving RH’s Ultra-Soft Turkish Robes, the remedy provided by the manufacturer is straightforward and consumer-friendly: a full refund of the purchase price. There is no offer for repair or replacement parts because the nature of the hazard—a failure to meet federal flammability standards—is inherent to the material composition of the robe itself. You cannot simply "fix" the fabric to make it fire-resistant without fundamentally altering the product, which is why a complete financial reimbursement is the only appropriate solution offered by RH. To initiate this refund process, you will need to reach out directly to RH through one of their designated consumer contact channels. The company has established specific hours for assistance, so it helps to plan your communication accordingly. You can call them at 800-762-1751. For those who prefer written communication or wish to have a record of the interaction, emailing recall@rh.com is an excellent option. Alternatively, you can visit their website at www.restorationhardware.com and navigate to the "Safety Recalls" link located at the bottom of the page. This online portal likely contains additional forms or detailed instructions that may streamline the process for you. When you contact RH, be prepared to provide specific details about your item to verify that it falls under this recall. The recall covers adult, unisex robes made of 100% cotton terry, available in black, dark gray, light gray, green, and white, in sizes XS through XL. If your robe was monogrammed, the process remains the same; however, having your original proof of purchase or order number will expedite the verification. The key identifier to look for is the sewn-in side label which displays the RN number 104581 and CA number 55697. Confirming these numbers ensures that you are indeed part of this specific recall batch manufactured in Turkey. It is important to understand why a refund is the chosen remedy here. The hazard involves the robes igniting while consumers were operating a gas stove, with multiple incident reports filed in both the U.S. and Canada. While no injuries have been reported, the risk of burn injuries is significant enough that the product cannot be safely used under any circumstances. Therefore, retaining the robe for "just in case" or attempting to use it in a different context does not mitigate the danger. A full refund removes the financial loss you incurred while simultaneously removing the hazard from your home. By acting promptly and following the provided contact instructions, you ensure that you are compensated fairly while also contributing to public safety by keeping these flammable items out of circulation. Please do not delay in contacting RH, as the sooner you resolve this, the sooner you can enjoy safer alternatives for your post-shower routine.What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely natural to feel reluctant to part with a beloved item, especially one that feels as luxurious and comforting as the RH Ultra-Soft Turkish Robe. These robes are designed for relaxation, warmth, and indulgence, which makes the idea of stopping their use entirely feel like an unnecessary inconvenience. However, ignoring this recall carries significant safety implications that extend far beyond mere disappointment or the hassle of a return process. The core issue here is not about comfort or style; it is about fundamental physical safety in environments where open flames are present.
The specific hazard identified by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is that these robes fail to meet the federal flammability standards for clothing textiles. In plain terms, this means the 100% cotton terry fabric burns much more easily and rapidly than it should. When a garment meets safety standards, it is treated or woven in a way that resists ignition or slows down the spread of fire. Because these robes do not meet that standard, they become highly vulnerable to catching fire from relatively minor sources of heat. This is particularly dangerous because cotton, while natural and soft, can be surprisingly flammable when it lacks proper chemical treatment or specific weaving techniques designed to inhibit combustion.
The risks are not theoretical. RH has already documented three incident reports in the United States and one in Canada where the recalled robes ignited while consumers were operating a gas stove. While no injuries have been reported in these instances, the fact that ignition occurred at all is a serious warning sign. Gas stoves produce open flames and high-temperature burners that are common household hazards. If a robe catches fire near such a source, the consequences can escalate quickly. Clothing fires can spread to other parts of the body or to nearby flammable materials in seconds, leading to severe burn injuries that require extensive medical treatment. The absence of reported injuries so far is fortunate, but it does not guarantee safety for future use; it only indicates that previous incidents did not result in physical harm.
Continuing to wear these robes in the kitchen or near any heat source—such as a fireplace, candle, or space heater—places you at an unacceptable level of risk. You might assume that because you are being careful, an accident will not happen. However, flammability is a property of the material itself, not just your behavior. A single slip, a sudden gust of wind, or a momentary lapse in attention can be enough to ignite the fabric. Ignoring the recall means ignoring this inherent vulnerability. It also means you are forgoing a simple, no-cost remedy. By contacting RH, you can receive a full refund, allowing you to replace the robe with one that meets modern safety standards. Choosing to keep the robe is essentially choosing to gamble with your safety against a known defect. The potential cost of that gamble—severe burns and life-altering injuries—is far too high compared to the minor inconvenience of processing a return.
Staying safe: broader tips
While this specific recall addresses a failure in textile flammability standards for bathrobes, the underlying principle of fire safety is universal and applies to many items in your home. Clothing textiles, particularly those made from natural fibers like cotton or synthetic blends, can behave unpredictably when exposed to open flames or high heat sources. It is important to understand that while modern building codes have made homes safer overall, personal protective gear like robes is not designed to be fireproof. Instead, they are designed for comfort and warmth, which often involves loose, absorbent fabrics that can ignite quickly if they come into contact with a pilot light, a gas stove burner, or an open flame from a candle or fireplace.
To mitigate these risks in your daily routine, always maintain a safe distance between loose-fitting garments and any ignition source. If you wear a robe while preparing food, especially when using a gas range, ensure that the sleeves and hem are tucked in or kept clear of burners. It is also wise to keep flammable materials, such as paper towels, curtains, or other textiles, away from stovetops and heaters. When using candles or incense, place them on stable, non-flammable surfaces and never leave them unattended. Consider installing smoke detectors in key areas of your home, including the kitchen and bedrooms, and test them monthly to ensure they are functioning correctly. These devices provide critical early warning in the event of a fire, giving you valuable time to evacuate safely.
Additionally, stay informed about product safety by regularly checking for recalls from official sources like the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Signing up for email alerts on these platforms can help you quickly identify potentially dangerous products before they cause harm. When purchasing new textiles, look for items that meet relevant safety standards and avoid those with loose, frayed edges that could easily catch fire. By combining vigilance with general fire prevention practices, you can create a safer environment for yourself and your family, reducing the likelihood of accidents involving household items and open flames.