What was recalled
In the summer of 2019, specifically on July 8th, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant recall involving a popular item from the Disney Pixar franchise Toy Story 4. The product in question is the "Forky" 11-inch plush toy. This isn't just any generic stuffed animal; it is a specific character merchandising item designed to replicate the handmade, spork-based appearance of Forky, the beloved new friend who joins Woody and his crew in the fourth installment of the animated series. The recall targets these particular plush dolls because of how they were constructed, particularly regarding the facial features that give the character its distinct, wide-eyed expression.
To help you identify whether you have this specific recalled item, it is important to look closely at the physical details of the toy. The recalled Forky plush stands approximately 11 inches tall and features poseable arms, allowing parents or children to position the character in various playful poses. A key visual identifier is the base of the toy, which includes rainbow screen art on top of the foot area, mimicking the colorful aesthetic often associated with the character's design. However, the most critical feature for identification lies in the face. The toy is equipped with plastic rolling "googly" eyes. These are not simple printed eyes but rather complex assemblies comprised of three distinct parts: a white plastic base, a clear plastic dome that covers the eye, and a small black plastic disc situated within the dome to represent the pupil. It is this specific assembly of detachable components that led to the recall.
The recall applies to units sold under the Disney brand. While the specific retail outlets where every single unit was purchased are not exhaustively listed in the general summary, the remedy indicates that these items were available at Disney Store retail locations as well as the retail stores located within Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort theme parks. This suggests a wide distribution network centered around Disney’s own branded merchandise channels during the promotional period for Toy Story 4. If you purchased this plush toy from one of these official Disney sources, it is highly likely to be included in the recall scope.
Because identifying the correct unit is crucial for safety, you must check the sewn-in label attached to the base of the toy. The CPSC has identified specific tracking codes that confirm a unit is part of this recall. If your Forky plush has any of the following tracking numbers printed on its label, it is definitely part of this batch and should be removed from use immediately: FAC-024868-18338, FAC-024868-19032, FAC-024868-19060, or FAC-024868-19091. These codes are the definitive proof of whether your specific toy is affected by this safety notice.
The hazard, explained
At first glance, Forky seems like the perfect companion for imaginative play. With his spork body, pipe-cleaner limbs, and expressive face, he invites children to hold him, pose him, and cuddle him close. However, the specific design of this 11-inch plush toy creates a silent but serious danger that parents might not immediately notice. The primary issue lies in the construction of Forky’s iconic "googly" eyes. Unlike solid, molded plastic features that are fused directly into the body of a toy, these eyes are complex assemblies made up of three distinct parts: a white plastic base, a clear plastic dome, and a small black plastic disc inside the dome that acts as the pupil.
Because these components are separate pieces fitted together rather than being one solid unit, they rely entirely on the strength of their attachment points to stay secure. Over time, or even during vigorous play, the force exerted on the eyes can cause them to detach from the plush body. When an eye comes loose, it does not disappear; it becomes a small, hard object that is no longer part of the toy’s structure. This detached piece transforms from a harmless facial feature into a foreign object lying freely in the play area.
The danger escalates quickly because of the size and shape of these detached components. The individual parts of the eye—particularly the clear dome and the black pupil disc—are small enough to fit entirely into a young child’s mouth. For toddlers and preschoolers, who naturally explore their world by putting objects in their mouths, this presents an immediate choking risk. If a child were to inhale or swallow one of these pieces, it could block the airway. Because the parts are hard plastic, they do not break down easily and can lodge firmly in the throat or windpipe, making them difficult to dislodge without medical intervention.
This type of hazard is particularly insidious because the toy still looks complete and functional until the moment an eye pops off. There is no obvious crack or tear that warns the parent that the safety barrier has failed. The mechanism of injury is straightforward: a small, rigid object becomes accessible to a child who lacks the coordination to spit it out if they begin to choke on it. Unlike soft stuffing, which might be easier to clear from an airway, these plastic components are dense and smooth, increasing the likelihood of them slipping past the vocal cords and entering the lungs or esophagus. This is why the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has classified this as a choking hazard requiring immediate removal from homes with young children.
Who is most at risk
When we look at this specific recall of the Disney Pixar Toy Story 4 "Forky" plush toy, the primary group at risk is clearly young children, particularly those under the age of three. The CPSC has flagged this item because of a choking hazard created by the detachable plastic eyes. For toddlers and infants, who naturally explore their world by putting objects in their mouths, these small components are incredibly dangerous. Even though the toy itself is an 11-inch plush figure designed to be cuddled, the specific design of the "googly" eyes presents a unique threat that adult oversight might not immediately catch.
The vulnerability here stems from two factors: the size and shape of the detached parts, and the developmental stage of the child. The eye components consist of a white plastic base, a clear dome, and a tiny black disc for the pupil. When these separate, they become small enough to pass through a standard toilet paper tube—a common benchmark for testing choking hazards for children under three. A toddler does not have the motor skills or the judgment to recognize that these shiny, colorful parts are not meant to be eaten. If one of these pieces breaks off during play, it can easily slide into the airway, blocking breathing and requiring immediate emergency intervention.
While older children who play with the toy are less likely to swallow the parts, they are still at risk of injury if the eyes detach unexpectedly during rough play or if they attempt to pull them apart out of curiosity. Parents and caregivers need to be especially vigilant because plush toys often appear safe and soft, masking the rigid, breakable plastic elements within. The risk is highest for children who are teething, as they may bite down hard on the eye area, increasing the likelihood of the components separating from the fabric base.
It is also important to consider the role of secondary caregivers, such as grandparents, babysitters, or daycare providers. They may not be aware of this specific recall unless notified directly. If a child is playing with a Forky toy in an environment where the owner’s awareness of the defect is unknown, the risk increases significantly. Therefore, the most vulnerable individuals are not just the children themselves, but also those caring for them who might not realize that a beloved character plush contains small, detachable plastic pieces. Ensuring that everyone handling the toy understands the severity of the hazard is crucial to preventing an accident.
- Toddlers (Under 3): Highest risk due to mouthing behavior and airway size.
- Caregivers: At risk of being unaware of the defect if not notified, leading to continued exposure.
- Older Children: Lower choking risk but potential for injury from broken plastic or sharp edges if eyes detach forcefully.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
If you own a plush toy from Disney Pixar’s Toy Story 4, specifically the character Forky, there is a specific set of physical characteristics you need to check. This recall targets an 11-inch tall plush figure that features poseable arms and a distinct base at the bottom. The most immediate visual cue is the rainbow screen art located on the top of the toy’s foot. However, looking at these external features alone is not enough to confirm whether your specific item is part of this safety notice, as manufacturing details can vary across different production runs.
The critical identifier for this recall lies in the eyes. The recalled Forky plush has plastic rolling "googly" eyes that are constructed from three separate parts: a white plastic base, a clear plastic dome, and a small black plastic disc inside the dome that serves as the pupil. It is these specific components that can detach and create a choking hazard. Because the eye design alone might not be sufficient to distinguish between recalled and non-recalled versions, you must locate the tracking code information. This code is printed on the sewn-in label attached to the base of the toy.
Please carefully examine that label on the bottom of Forky’s foot. The recall applies only if your toy bears one of the following specific tracking numbers: FAC-024868-18338, FAC-024868-19032, FAC-024868-19060, or FAC-024868-19091. If your toy has a different tracking number, it is not included in this specific recall action. If you cannot find the label, have lost the tag, or are unsure if the numbers match exactly, it is best to assume the toy may be part of the recall and proceed with caution.
To help you verify your item quickly, here is a checklist of what to look for:
- Character: Forky from Disney Pixar’s Toy Story 4.
- Size: Approximately 11 inches tall.
- Features: Poseable arms, a base, rainbow screen art on the foot, and plastic rolling eyes with three parts (white base, clear dome, black pupil disc).
- Label Location: Sewn into the base of the toy.
- Tracking Codes: FAC-024868-18338, FAC-024868-19032, FAC-024868-19060, or FAC-024868-19091.
If your toy matches all these descriptions and has one of the listed tracking numbers, it is part of this recall. If you are still uncertain after checking the label, do not hesitate to contact Disney directly for clarification before deciding what to do next.
What to do — step by step
If you own the Disney Pixar’s Toy Story 4 "Forky" plush toy, please take immediate action to ensure the safety of your children. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Disney have issued a clear directive: stop using the product right now. This is not a situation where you can wait until next weekend or put it on a shelf for later. Because the hazard involves small plastic eyes that can detach, leaving them within reach poses an unnecessary risk. Your first and most critical step is to physically remove the recalled 11-inch Forky plush toy from your home or wherever it is currently kept. Place it in a secure location where young children cannot access it, effectively taking it away from playtime until you have resolved the issue.
Once the toy is safely out of reach, your next step is to initiate the return process for a full refund. Disney has made this process straightforward by accepting returns at multiple physical locations, so you do not need to deal with complex shipping logistics if you prefer an in-person transaction. You can bring the recalled Forky plush toy directly to any Disney Store retail location. Alternatively, if you are visiting or live near one of the major theme parks, you may return it to any Walt Disney World Resort or Disneyland Resort theme park retail store location. When you go to return the item, simply explain that you have a recalled product and wish to process a refund. The company will handle the rest, ensuring you get your money back without hassle.
If you are unable to visit a physical store in person, you can contact Disney directly for further assistance or to arrange other options. You can reach their consumer support team by calling their toll-free number at 866-537-7649. It is helpful to know their hours of operation so you can reach a representative during available times: Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Central Time, Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. CT, and Sunday from 1:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. CT. If you prefer written communication, you may also email personal.shoppers@shopDisney.com for additional information or guidance on how to proceed with your specific situation.
When preparing to return the toy, it is helpful to have the tracking code information ready, as this confirms the item is part of the recalled lot. This code is located on the sewn-in label attached to the base of the plush toy. The specific tracking numbers associated with this recall are FAC-024868-18338, FAC-024868-19032, FAC-024868-19060, and FAC-024868-19091. Having this information on hand can streamline the return process at the retail counter or when speaking with customer support. Remember, the goal here is simple: remove the choking hazard from your child’s environment and secure a full refund for the product.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have been affected by this recall, the primary remedy offered by Disney is straightforward and consumer-friendly: a full refund. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has confirmed that Disney is not offering repairs or replacements for these specific items. Instead, they are asking consumers to return the product entirely in exchange for their money back. This approach makes sense given the nature of the defect; because the "googly" eyes are made of small plastic components that can detach, repairing them would likely compromise the structural integrity of the toy or fail to address the underlying manufacturing issue. A refund ensures that you do not have to keep a potentially unsafe item in your home while waiting for parts or labor.
To process this refund, you must take the recalled 11" Forky plush toy to one of three specific physical locations. You cannot mail it back, nor can you simply request a refund through standard online customer service channels without visiting a retail partner first. Your options for returning the item are limited to any Disney Store retail location, or the retail stores located within the Walt Disney World Resort or Disneyland Resort theme parks. This requirement ensures that the returned merchandise is properly logged and removed from circulation in a controlled environment. When you visit one of these locations, simply bring the toy with you. The staff at these specific Disney-affiliated outlets are authorized to process the return and issue your full refund immediately.
If you are unable to visit one of these physical locations yourself, or if you have questions about the process before heading out, Disney has established dedicated contact channels to assist you. You can reach Disney’s support team via their toll-free number at 866-537-7649. It is important to note the specific hours of operation for this line, as they vary by day of the week. From Monday through Friday, the line is open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Central Time. On Saturdays, the hours are slightly shorter, running from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Central Time. On Sundays, the support team is available from 1:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Central Time. Alternatively, if you prefer written communication or have non-urgent inquiries, you may email personal.shoppers@shopDisney.com.
When you contact Disney or visit a store, be prepared to provide the tracking code information found on the sewn-in label attached to the base of the toy. This step is crucial for verifying that your specific unit is part of this recall batch. The affected units include those with the following tracking numbers: FAC-024868-18338, FAC-024868-19032, FAC-024868-19060, and FAC-024868-19091. Having this information ready will help the customer service representative or store associate verify your eligibility for the refund quickly and efficiently. By following these steps, you ensure that the unsafe toy is removed from your home and that you are made whole financially.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable why you might hesitate to part with a beloved toy like Forky. These plush figures are often gifts, collectibles, or comforting companions for children who have formed an emotional attachment to the character. The impulse to keep playing with it, perhaps just under close supervision, is natural. However, ignoring this recall carries a specific and serious risk that goes beyond simple disappointment. The core issue here is not structural failure or toxic materials, but rather the mechanical integrity of the eyes. Because the "googly" eyes are constructed from three separate plastic components—a white base, a clear dome, and a black pupil disc—they create small, hard objects that can become loose over time.
If you continue to use this toy without removing it from your home, you are leaving a potential choking hazard within reach. The danger lies in the detachment of these eye components. Once an eye pops off or breaks away from the plush body, it becomes a small, rigid object that is easily accessible to young children. For toddlers and preschoolers, who naturally explore the world by putting things in their mouths, this small plastic piece can become a fatal obstruction if swallowed or inhaled into the airway. This is not a theoretical risk; it is a well-documented mechanism of injury associated with toys featuring detachable small parts.
The consequences of ignoring this warning can range from a minor scare to a life-threatening emergency. If a child manages to swallow one of these plastic eye pieces, it could block the esophagus, causing difficulty swallowing and requiring immediate medical intervention to remove. More severely, if the object is inhaled into the trachea or lungs, it can cause complete airway obstruction. This leads to suffocation, which can result in brain damage or death within minutes if not treated immediately. Even if the child does not swallow the piece, they could choke on it while laughing, crying, or eating, leading to a similar emergency situation.
While the CPSC reports no incidents for this specific recall batch, the absence of reported injuries does not mean the risk is absent. It simply means that, so far, no one has been hurt. Choking hazards are often silent until it is too late. By ignoring the recall, you are gambling with the safety of children who may not yet have the motor skills to recognize a choking hazard or the ability to spit out an object quickly. The peace of mind provided by this toy should never come at the cost of potential respiratory distress or hospitalization. Removing the toy is the only way to ensure that playtime remains safe and joyful for everyone involved.
Staying safe: broader tips
While this specific recall addresses a design flaw in a particular plush toy, the underlying principle applies to almost every soft toy and stuffed animal you bring into your home. The primary danger with these items is rarely the fabric itself, but rather the small components attached to them. Eyes, noses, buttons, and decorative elements are often the first points of failure because they endure constant squeezing, hugging, and washing. To mitigate this risk, always inspect new toys before handing them over to a child. Gently tug on any protruding parts, especially those that appear to be glued or loosely stitched. If an eye or accessory feels even slightly wobbly, it is not safe for a young child who may put objects in their mouth. It is far better to return the item immediately than to risk a medical emergency.
Regular maintenance is equally critical. Over time, the seams on stuffed animals can weaken due to friction from play or the agitation of washing machines. Make it a habit to check the integrity of stitches every few months. Pay close attention to the areas around eyes and noses, as these are high-stress points. If you notice any fraying thread, loose backing, or small plastic fragments beginning to separate, remove the toy from circulation right away. Do not attempt to repair it with household glue, which can be toxic if ingested, nor with standard sewing kits that may leave needle holes or uneven edges that could trap tiny particles. Instead, discard the damaged item responsibly.
Age appropriateness is another vital layer of protection. The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends against any toy containing small parts for children under three years old. Even if a toy is marketed as "safe," developmental stages vary. A child who still explores the world by mouthing objects is at significantly higher risk than one who has outgrown that phase. Always adhere to the age grading on the packaging, but use your own judgment about your child’s specific habits and tendencies.
Finally, stay proactive about product safety in general. Sign up for email alerts from the CPSC or follow their social media channels to receive immediate notifications about recalls. Many dangerous defects are caught early, but only if you are aware of them. By keeping an eye on official sources and practicing vigilant inspection of your child’s belongings, you create a safer environment that goes beyond any single product recall.