What was recalled
In May of 2018, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant recall involving women’s scarves manufactured by the brand Wrapables. This action was taken because these specific textiles failed to meet the federal flammability standards required for clothing items. If you own one of these scarves, it is important to understand exactly which products are affected so you can determine if your item is part of this safety alert. The recall specifically targets 100% silk Wrapables women’s scarves that were sold in various colors and through specific online retailers.
The recalled scarves are defined by their precise physical characteristics. Each scarf measures approximately 65 inches in length and 21 inches in width, offering a generous size for styling. To help identify the product, you should look for a small side seam label sewn into the fabric that clearly reads "100% silk." The scarves were available in thirteen distinct colors: Azure Blue, Bright Fuchsia, Brown Corn Silk Cream, Dark Blue, Floral White, Lime Green, Midnight Black, Orchid Purple, Peony Pink, Rose Red, Sky Blue, and Tangerine Orange. On Amazon.com, the product was listed under the specific name "Wrapables Lightweight 100% Silk Butterfly Print Long Scarf."
These scarves were sold exclusively through two major online platforms: Walmart.com and Amazon.com. The recall date for this action is May 9, 2018. While the CPSC did not report a specific number of units involved in this recall, it is important to note that no incidents or injuries have been reported to date. However, because the scarves do not meet federal flammability standards, they pose a potential risk of burn injuries if exposed to open flames or high heat sources. Consumers who purchased these scarves from Walmart.com or Amazon.com should be aware that Wrapables is directly contacting those customers to inform them of the recall and provide instructions for obtaining a full refund.
If you are unsure whether your scarf is part of this recall, check the label on the side seam for the "100% silk" marking. Additionally, consider where and when you purchased the item. If you bought it from Walmart.com or Amazon.com around the time this recall was announced, it is highly likely that your scarf is included in this safety notice. For more information, you can contact Wrapables toll-free at 888-651-1638 between 8:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. PT, Monday through Friday, or via email at service@wrapables.com with "Product Recall" as the subject line. You can also visit www.wrapables.com and click on the Important Notice tab at the bottom of the webpage.
The hazard, explained
When we talk about a violation of the federal flammability standard for clothing textiles, we are essentially discussing how quickly and intensely a material catches fire and continues to burn after the initial ignition source is removed. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) enforces strict regulations under 16 CFR Part 1610 to ensure that fabrics used in apparel meet a minimum threshold of resistance to burning. This standard is not arbitrary; it is designed around the critical window of time needed for a person to react to, escape from, or extinguish a small fire on their clothing. The Wrapables scarves have been recalled because testing determined that this specific 100% silk fabric fails to meet those required resistance levels.
To understand why this is dangerous, it helps to look at the physics of textile combustion. Fabrics are rated based on how long it takes for a flame to spread across them. Compliant clothing textiles are designed to self-extinguish or burn very slowly, giving the wearer precious seconds to remove the garment or douse the flames. The scarves in question, however, ignite more readily and sustain combustion at a rate that exceeds the safety limits set by federal law. While silk is often perceived as a premium, natural fiber that might behave predictably when exposed to heat, this particular batch did not possess the necessary inherent or treated characteristics to slow down the fire’s progress.
The mechanism of injury in these types of incidents is direct thermal contact. Because scarves are worn close to the face and neck—areas with thin skin and high concentrations of blood vessels—the consequences of a failure are particularly severe. If a scarf catches fire from a nearby candle, stove, or even a static spark, the material can flare up rapidly rather than smoldering slowly. This rapid propagation means that the heat transfer to the skin happens almost instantly, significantly increasing the risk of second- and third-degree burns. Unlike a heavy wool coat which might shield the wearer, a lightweight scarf offers little insulation against the initial shock of ignition.
Furthermore, the hazard is compounded by the nature of how scarves are used. They are often draped loosely around the neck, creating layers of fabric that can easily catch air and feed oxygen to a flame. If a consumer is unaware that their scarf is flammable until it is already burning, they may not react quickly enough to pull it away from their face. The absence of reported incidents to date is fortunate, but it does not negate the physical reality that the material’s chemical structure allowed it to burn faster than federal law permits for safe apparel. This violation means the product did not perform as consumers reasonably expect when exposed to common household fire sources.
Who is most at risk
The primary group facing potential harm in this recall consists of individuals who own or regularly use the specific Wrapables women’s scarves described below. Because these items are fashion accessories designed to be worn close to the body, particularly around the neck and face, anyone wearing them is theoretically exposed to the fire hazard if ignition occurs. The risk is not limited to a single demographic but affects all consumers who purchased one of the 13 specific color variations of this 100% silk product between the relevant sales periods. However, vulnerability to burn injuries can vary significantly depending on individual physical characteristics and environmental factors.
While the recall does not specify that any particular age group has been harmed, general safety principles indicate that certain populations may face heightened risks due to how quickly burns develop or how severely they impact the body. Young children, for instance, are often at greater risk in textile-related fires because their skin is thinner than that of adults. Thinner skin means that heat penetrates more rapidly, potentially causing deeper tissue damage in a shorter amount of time. Additionally, children may have slower reaction times to sudden danger or may be less able to remove a burning garment quickly, increasing the duration of exposure to flames.
Elderly individuals are another group that requires careful consideration regarding burn severity. As people age, their skin also becomes thinner and more fragile, reducing its natural resistance to heat damage. Furthermore, older adults may have slower reflexes or mobility issues that make it difficult to step away from a fire source or to untangle themselves from a scarf if it catches fire. This delay in response can turn a minor incident into a serious injury. For this reason, caregivers and family members should ensure that any elderly relatives who own these scarves stop using them immediately.
It is also important to note that the risk is exacerbated by the nature of silk as a material. While silk is often praised for its luxury and drape, it is a protein fiber that can burn readily if it does not meet flammability standards. The recalled scarves failed to meet the federal flammability standard for clothing textiles, meaning they likely ignite easily and continue to burn once lit. Individuals who wear these scarves in environments with potential ignition sources—such as open flames from candles, fireplaces, or cooking stoves—are at a compounded risk. Although no incidents have been reported to date, the potential for severe burn injuries exists for anyone wearing these specific items near heat or flame. Therefore, the safest approach is for all owners, regardless of age or health status, to cease use immediately and seek a refund.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Identifying whether your scarf is part of this specific recall requires a careful physical inspection of the item itself. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has outlined precise details about the product’s construction, materials, and labeling that distinguish these scarves from others on the market. To determine if you own a recalled unit, you must look for several key characteristics simultaneously. First, verify the brand name. These scarves are manufactured by Wrapables. If your scarf bears a different brand label, it is not part of this specific recall action, even if it shares similar materials or styles.
The most definitive way to confirm you have a recalled item is to check the fabric composition and the attached labeling. The recalled products are made entirely of 100% silk. Crucially, you need to locate the small side seam label sewn into the scarf. This tag must explicitly state "100% silk." If your scarf has a different fiber content listed, such as polyester blends or rayon, it is not included in this recall. The physical dimensions of the scarves are also specific: they measure approximately 65 inches in length by 21 inches in width. While size alone cannot confirm a recall, these measurements align with the "Long Scarf" description often used in retail listings for this brand.
Next, examine the color palette. The recall covers scarves sold in 13 specific colors: Azure Blue, Bright Fuchsia, Brown Corn Silk Cream, Dark Blue, Floral White, Lime Green, Midnight Black, Orchid Purple, Peony Pink, Rose Red, Sky Blue, and Tangerine Orange. If your scarf is one of these solid or floral patterns in the listed hues, it falls within the scope of the recall. However, color alone is not sufficient proof; it must be combined with the brand and material verification.
Finally, consider where and how you purchased the item. These scarves were sold online through Walmart.com and Amazon.com. On Amazon, the product was specifically listed under the name "Wrapables Lightweight 100% Silk Butterfly Print Long Scarf." If you bought the scarf from a physical retail store or a different website, it is likely not part of this recall. The recall date for this alert is May 9, 2018. Therefore, if you purchased the item before this date from the specified online retailers, and it matches the brand, material, and labeling described above, you should treat it as recalled immediately.
What to do — step by step
If you own one of the recalled Wrapables women’s scarves, your immediate priority is to ensure your personal safety by removing the hazard from your daily life. Because these items fail to meet federal flammability standards, they can ignite and burn more quickly than standard clothing textiles, which significantly increases the risk of serious burn injuries. Please do not wait for a notification letter if you are unsure whether you have one of these specific scarves; take action now by following these concrete steps. First, stop using the recalled scarves immediately. Do not wear them, gift them to friends or family, or leave them lying around where children or pets might encounter them. Even though no incidents have been reported to date, the potential danger remains real because the material behaves unpredictably when exposed to flame sources like candles, stoves, or space heaters. By taking them out of circulation right away, you eliminate the possibility of an accident occurring in your home or while you are traveling. Next, contact Wrapables to initiate your refund process. The company has committed to providing a full refund for all affected units. You have three convenient ways to reach their customer service team. You can call their toll-free number at 888-651-1638. When you call, be prepared to speak with a representative between 8:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you may send an email to service@wrapables.com. It is crucial that you use "Product Recall" as the subject line of your email so their system correctly categorizes your inquiry and routes it to the appropriate team for faster processing. If you prefer digital communication, you can also visit www.wrapables.com and click on the "Important Notice" tab located at the bottom of the webpage for additional details and direct links. Finally, understand that Wrapables is actively contacting consumers who purchased these scarves online directly from Walmart.com and Amazon.com. If you bought the item through one of these platforms, keep an eye on your email inbox for instructions from the company. However, if you do not receive a message, or if you purchased the scarf elsewhere, you must proactively reach out using the contact methods listed above to ensure you receive your refund. Do not assume silence means no action is needed; proactive communication ensures your safety and financial reimbursement are handled correctly. By following these steps, you protect yourself from potential harm and secure your money back for a product that was never safe to use in the first place.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you own one of the recalled Wrapables scarves, it is important to understand exactly how the remedy works and what your rights are in this situation. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has determined that these items do not meet federal safety standards, specifically regarding flammability. Consequently, the primary remedy offered by the manufacturer is a full refund. There is no option for repair or replacement with a safer model at this time because the issue is inherent to the material's compliance with safety regulations. This means your financial loss will be entirely covered, and you should not have to pay any shipping fees to return the item. The goal here is to remove the hazard from your home without costing you anything.
In most cases, consumers who purchased these scarves online directly from Walmart.com or Amazon.com may not need to take any action at all. Wrapables has proactively identified these buyers and is contacting them directly to arrange the refund process. If you bought the item through one of these major retailers, check your email inbox for a message from Wrapables or the retailer. This automated outreach is designed to make the process as seamless as possible for you. However, if you purchased the scarf from a different location, such as a physical store or a third-party seller, you will need to initiate the contact yourself.
To claim your refund, you must reach out to Wrapables directly. You have three convenient ways to do this. First, you can call their toll-free number at 888-651-1638. This line is available from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday. When you call, have your purchase receipt or order confirmation ready to verify your purchase. Second, you can send an email to service@wrapables.com. It is crucial that you use "Product Recall" as the subject line of your email so that their customer service team can quickly categorize and process your request without delay. Third, you can visit their website at www.wrapables.com and click on the "Important Notice" tab located at the bottom of the webpage for additional details and instructions.
When you contact them, be prepared to provide specific details about your scarf to help them verify it is part of this recall batch. The recalled items are 100% silk scarves measuring approximately 65 inches long by 21 inches wide. They feature a small side seam label printed with "100% silk." If you bought the item on Amazon.com, it was listed under the specific title "Wrapables Lightweight 100% Silk Butterfly Print Long Scarf." Providing this information will help expedite your refund. Remember, do not attempt to sell or donate these scarves to others. The only safe and financially sound option is to return them for a full refund and dispose of them safely.
What can happen if you ignore it
When a recall notice states that a product fails to meet federal safety standards, it is not merely a bureaucratic formality; it represents a tangible shift in the risk profile of an everyday item. In the case of these 100% silk Wrapables scarves, the core issue is flammability. Silk is a natural protein fiber that, while often perceived as luxurious and durable, can behave unpredictably when exposed to open flames or high heat sources if it has not been treated with appropriate flame-retardant chemicals or woven in a way that meets specific regulatory thresholds. The federal flammability standard for clothing textiles exists to ensure that garments do not ignite easily, do not burn rapidly, and do not continue to glow or smolder after the ignition source is removed.
If you choose to ignore this recall and continue wearing these scarves in environments where heat or fire is present, you are inadvertently increasing your vulnerability to severe burn injuries. The danger lies in the speed of combustion. A scarf that does not meet the standard may ignite with less resistance than a compliant garment. Once ignited, it can spread flame across its surface much faster than expected. Because scarves are worn close to the face and neck—areas with sensitive skin and vital arteries—the consequences of a fire taking hold are particularly devastating. Rapid burning can lead to deep tissue damage, scarring, and in worst-case scenarios, life-threatening injuries before the wearer has time to react or remove the item.
You might wonder if this is just theoretical risk. While the CPSC report notes that no incidents have been reported as of the recall date, the absence of reported injuries does not mean the hazard is non-existent. It simply means that, so far, bad luck has prevented a tragedy. Flammability hazards are often silent until they become catastrophic. A single spark from a candle, a birthday cake, a kitchen stove, or even a static discharge in dry winter air could potentially trigger ignition if the fabric’s flammability resistance is insufficient. Ignoring the recall means you are gambling with your safety based on the hope that such an event will never occur to you.
Beyond the immediate physical danger of burns, there is also the psychological burden of carrying an unknown risk. Every time you put on a recalled item, you are bypassing the consumer protection mechanisms designed to keep you safe. The remedy offered—a full refund—is straightforward and accessible. By refusing it, you are not saving money; you are retaining a defective product that has been deemed unsafe by federal regulators. The potential cost of a burn injury, both in terms of physical suffering and medical expense, far outweighs the value of the scarf. Staying safe means respecting the warning: stop using the item immediately and remove it from your home to prevent accidental use by family members or guests.