What was recalled
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a recall for specific portable power bank charging stations manufactured by Mizco International and sold under the brand name Re-fuel by Digipower. Specifically, this action targets the "Grab and Go Family Pack" model. These devices are designed as self-contained energy sources, intended to charge cell phones and other small electronic gadgets when you are away from a traditional electrical outlet. The product is marketed toward consumers who need portable power on the go, offering a convenient solution for keeping devices charged during travel or outdoor activities.
The recalled item is not a single battery but a comprehensive charging kit. Each unit consists of three distinct rechargeable lithium-ion battery chargers, available in black, gray, and green colors. These individual batteries are oval-shaped and measure approximately 3.75 inches long by 1.25 inches high by 0.75 inches wide. The text "re-fuel by DIGIPOWER" is printed on each power bank for identification. These three batteries are designed to sit on a specific recharging docking station, which serves as the hub for charging all three units simultaneously. The bottom of this charging station bears the item number RF-TRIP, which is a critical detail for identifying the specific model included in this recall.
These products were sold exclusively at The Container Store. While the exact date of sale is not specified in the public record, the recall announcement was issued on April 5, 2018. Consumers who purchased these items from The Container Store, either in physical locations or online during that period, are the primary group affected by this notice. It is important to note that the recall applies specifically to the Re-fuel by Digipower Grab and Go Family Pack with item number RF-TRIP. Other power banks sold by Mizco International or other brands under different model numbers are not part of this specific safety action unless explicitly stated, which they are not in this case.
The scope of this recall is defined strictly by the product description and sales channel. It does not extend to other Digipower products, nor does it cover power banks sold through different retailers. If you purchased a similar-looking device from a different store or under a different brand name, it is likely not subject to this specific recall, though general safety practices should always be observed with any lithium-ion battery product. The focus here remains entirely on the Re-fuel by Digipower Grab and Go Family Pack sold at The Container Store.
Understanding exactly what was recalled is the first step in ensuring your safety. By identifying the specific brand, model, and retailer, you can determine whether your device is part of this group. The recall highlights a potential defect in the charging station component, which may overheat when the unit is being charged. This underscores the importance of verifying the item number RF-TRIP on the bottom of your docking station to confirm if your device is included in the recall.
The hazard, explained
At the heart of this recall is a specific failure mode: the Re-fuel charging station can overheat while it is actively receiving power from an electrical outlet. This isn’t just a minor inconvenience like a warm phone; it is a significant thermal event that has already resulted in physical damage to the product itself. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Mizco International has received five separate reports of these units overheating to the point where the plastic components began to melt. When a device melts, it indicates that internal temperatures have far exceeded safe operating limits, compromising the structural integrity of the casing and potentially exposing live electrical components.
To understand why this is dangerous, it helps to look at what is happening inside these portable power banks. The Re-fuel units contain 2600 mAh lithium-ion batteries. Lithium-ion chemistry is highly efficient and powerful, which is why these batteries are so popular in everything from smartphones to electric cars. However, lithium-ion cells are also sensitive to heat. When a battery or its associated charging circuitry malfunctions—due to a defect in the manufacturing process, a short circuit, or a failure in the thermal management system—the temperature can rise rapidly. This is known as "thermal runaway." In this state, the heat generated by the chemical reaction inside the battery creates even more heat, creating a self-sustaining cycle that the device cannot stop on its own.
The danger to consumers comes from two primary avenues: fire and direct contact burns. First, the melting plastic you saw in the reports is a warning sign of potential ignition. The materials used in the docking station and the battery casings are often flammable polymers. If the internal temperature continues to climb unchecked, these plastics can catch fire, especially if they are left on combustible surfaces like wooden nightstands or upholstered furniture. While no fires have been reported in this specific batch yet, the risk escalates quickly once melting begins.
Second, there is the immediate risk of burn injuries. The recalled units were designed to be portable and handled frequently. If the exterior casing becomes hot enough to melt, it is undoubtedly hot enough to cause serious thermal burns to human skin upon contact. A burn from an electrical device can be particularly painful and slow-healing because the heat source is often embedded within the device itself. Even if a fire does not start, touching a unit that has exceeded its safe temperature threshold can result in second-degree burns, blistering, and lasting tissue damage. This is why the remedy is immediate cessation of use: you cannot know how hot the interior components are just by looking at the outside, but if it is melting, it is dangerous to touch.
It is also important to note that this hazard occurs specifically "when the unit is being charged." This means the danger is present while the power bank is plugged into a wall outlet to replenish its own energy reserves. During this phase, multiple electrical conversions are happening simultaneously—AC current from your wall is being converted to DC current to charge the internal lithium cells. Any fault in the rectifier, voltage regulator, or battery management system within the docking station can lead to excessive heat buildup. Because these failures can happen without warning, the CPSC has determined that no amount of user caution can mitigate the risk once the defect is present.
Who is most at risk
The primary group affected by this recall includes anyone who purchased the Re-fuel by Digipower Grab and Go Family Pack from The Container Store. This product was designed for modern consumers who need portable power on the go, particularly those who travel frequently, commute long distances, or simply find themselves away from electrical outlets throughout their day. Because these charging stations were sold as a "Family Pack," they are likely in households with multiple devices and multiple users. If you bought this specific item to keep your smartphones, tablets, or other small electronics charged while you are out of the house, you are part of the affected population. The risk is not limited to professional travelers; it extends to students, parents managing family schedules, and anyone who relies on having their devices powered up outside of their home.
While the recall notice does not specify that any particular age group has been injured so far, certain groups may be more vulnerable to the consequences of this specific hazard. The Re-fuel power banks contain lithium-ion batteries, which can become extremely hot when they malfunction. For children, who may handle these devices less carefully or leave them plugged in unattended while playing, the risk is twofold: accidental contact with a hot surface and the potential for the device to cause a fire that spreads quickly in a home environment. Children are often curious about electronic devices and might touch the unit while it is charging, putting their hands at risk of burns from overheating components.
Elderly individuals or those with reduced sensitivity to temperature changes may also face heightened risks. If a device begins to overheat gradually, someone with diminished tactile sensation might not notice the warmth until significant damage has occurred. Furthermore, if a fire does start, the ability to react quickly and safely evacuate can be compromised by mobility issues or slower reaction times associated with aging. Since these units are small and oval-shaped, they are easily placed on nightstands, desks, or bedside tables—common locations where people might sleep or rest nearby. This proximity increases the likelihood of exposure to heat or smoke if the unit fails.
Additionally, individuals who use these charging stations in confined spaces, such as inside bags, purses, or car cup holders, are at greater risk. If the unit overheats while enclosed, heat can build up rapidly without dissipating, increasing the chance of melting plastic components igniting or causing severe burns to anyone handling the bag shortly after unplugging it. The fact that five reports of overheating and melting have already been received suggests that this is not a rare occurrence, making it crucial for all owners, regardless of their age or lifestyle, to take immediate action.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
If you purchased a portable charging solution from The Container Store, particularly around the time this recall was announced in April 2018, it is important to verify whether your device is part of this specific safety notice. Because these items are often stored in drawers, bags, or office supplies, identifying them requires looking at several distinct physical and labeling details. The recall specifically targets the "Re-fuel by Digipower" brand of Grab and Go Family Pack portable power bank charging stations. If your device does not bear this specific branding, it is likely not part of this particular hazard, but if it does, you need to check the following identifiers carefully.
First, examine the contents of the unit. The recalled product is a "Family Pack" that includes three separate portable chargers. These are not single units but a set designed to sit together. You should look for three distinct battery chargers in black, gray, and green colors. Each individual power bank within this pack is oval-shaped, which gives it a distinctive profile compared to standard rectangular phone batteries. The dimensions are quite specific: each unit measures approximately 3.75 inches long by 1.25 inches high by 0.75 inches wide. If your device matches these size and color specifications, it warrants closer inspection.
Next, look closely at the text printed on the devices themselves. On the surface of each power bank, you should see the words "re-fuel by DIGIPOWER" clearly printed. This branding is a primary indicator that the item falls under this recall scope. Additionally, turn your attention to the base of the system. The charging station itself, which acts as the docking area for the three batteries, will have an item number printed on its bottom surface. You are looking specifically for the item number RF-TRIP. If you find this combination of branding and item code, you have confirmed that your device is part of the recall.
To be absolutely certain, consider where and when you bought the unit. These charging stations were sold exclusively at The Container Store. While other retailers may sell similar power banks, the specific "Grab and Go Family Pack" associated with this fire hazard was distributed through The Container Store’s inventory. If you cannot find the item number or are unsure of your purchase history, the safest course of action is to contact the retailer directly using the information provided in the remedy section below, as they can help verify your specific unit against their recall records.
What to do — step by step
If you own a Re-fuel by Digipower Grab and Go Family Pack portable power bank charging station, your immediate priority is safety. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has identified a serious risk where the unit can overheat while it is being charged, creating both fire and burn hazards. Because this issue involves lithium-ion batteries—which are powerful energy sources but can become unstable if they malfunction—you must act quickly to remove the danger from your home. Please follow these specific steps to protect yourself and resolve the issue. First, stop using the recalled charging station immediately. Do not wait for it to fully drain or try to use it one more time. If you are currently charging other devices (such as cell phones) via this dock, disconnect them carefully. The hazard occurs when the unit itself is being charged, so leaving it plugged in or attached to the dock increases the risk of overheating. Simply unplug the docking station from the wall outlet if it is connected. This step is critical because the problem is not with how you charge your phone, but with the internal mechanism of the power bank when it receives power. Next, do not attempt to repair the device yourself or try to test it again to see if it still works. Lithium-ion battery failures can be unpredictable and may worsen over time or if the unit is jostled. Instead, you need to initiate a return process through The Container Store, which was the retailer for these items. You have three convenient ways to contact them for instructions on how to receive a full refund: 1. Call their toll-free number at 888-266-8246. They are available from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Central Time, any day of the week. 2. Send an email to contain@containerstore.com. Be sure to mention that you have a Re-fuel power bank charging station and that you are contacting them regarding the product recall. 3. Visit their website at www.containerstore.com and click on the "Product Recall" link for detailed online instructions. When you contact The Container Store, be prepared to provide details about your purchase if possible, such as the item number RF-TRIP printed on the bottom of the charging station. This will help them verify that your unit is part of this specific recall batch. They will guide you through the process of returning the product or disposing of it safely, ensuring you get a full refund without any hassle. Finally, dispose of the recalled unit properly once you have received instructions from The Container Store. Do not throw it in your regular household trash if they advise against it, as damaged lithium-ion batteries can pose a fire risk to sanitation workers and facilities. Follow their specific disposal guidelines carefully. By taking these steps, you eliminate the risk of a fire or burn incident while securing your money back. Remember, no injuries have been reported so far with this model, but prevention is always better than dealing with the consequences of a battery failure. Your safety is worth the few minutes it takes to make that call or send that email.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you own a Re-fuel by Digipower Grab and Go Family Pack portable power bank charging station, the good news is that there is a clear, straightforward path to resolving this issue without any cost to you. Because the product presents a serious fire and burn hazard due to overheating while charging, the manufacturer, Mizco International, has not opted for a repair or a replacement unit. Instead, they are offering a full refund to all affected consumers. This approach makes sense from a safety perspective: since the defect involves the internal lithium-ion batteries potentially melting, sending you another identical unit would simply replace one risky product with another. A complete refund allows you to remove the dangerous item from your home entirely and choose a different power solution that meets your needs.
To process your refund, you will need to contact The Container Store directly, as they were the retailer where these items were sold. The recall notice specifies that consumers should reach out to them for detailed instructions on how to receive their money back. You have three convenient ways to get in touch. First, you can call their dedicated toll-free number at 888-266-8246. They are available to take your call at any time, which is helpful if you need to resolve this quickly after work or on weekends. Their customer service representatives operate from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Central Time, so keep that window in mind if you prefer speaking with someone during standard business hours.
If you prefer written communication, you can send an email to contain@containerstore.com. This is often a good option if you want to document your request or if you have specific questions about the return process that you’d like to reference later. Alternatively, you can visit their website at www.containerstore.com and navigate to the dedicated Product Recall section for more information. Using the online portal may provide you with automated forms or FAQs that streamline the refund process.
When you contact The Container Store, be prepared to provide proof of purchase if you have it, such as a receipt or order confirmation email. However, even without physical documentation, reaching out to their customer support team is the critical first step. They will guide you through the necessary steps to return the unit and initiate the refund. Do not attempt to dispose of the overheating device in your regular trash before contacting them, as it remains a potential fire hazard until handled properly. By following these instructions, you ensure that you are refunded fully while also helping authorities track the recall’s effectiveness.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable why you might hesitate to stop using a convenient gadget like the Re-fuel by Digipower Grab and Go Family Pack. These portable power banks are designed to be reliable companions for busy lives, offering freedom from wall outlets while you are on the go. The temptation to simply keep charging your phone as usual, or to assume that because nothing has happened yet, the risk is minimal, is a very human reaction. However, in the case of this specific recall by Mizco International, ignoring the hazard notification carries significant and escalating risks that go far beyond mere inconvenience.
The core issue lies in the internal chemistry of the lithium-ion batteries housed within these units. When a battery cell begins to fail or overheat during the charging process, it enters a state known as thermal runaway. This is not a gentle warming; it is a self-perpetuating cycle where heat generates more heat. If you continue to use the unit while it is plugged in and charging, you are essentially feeding this cycle. The recall notice indicates that the firm has already received five reports of these power banks overheating and melting. While no injuries have been reported to date, the physical evidence of failure—melting plastic casings—is a clear warning sign that the safety barriers inside the device are compromised.
If you ignore this warning and continue to use or charge the device, you risk turning a malfunctioning gadget into a serious fire hazard. Lithium-ion batteries contain flammable electrolytes. When the internal temperature rises too high due to overheating, these materials can ignite. This can lead to spontaneous combustion, where the unit bursts into flames without any external spark. Furthermore, the plastic casing of the power bank is designed to insulate heat, but once it begins to melt, as reported in the incidents, that insulation fails. This exposes hot internal components and creates a burn risk for anyone holding or touching the device. The heat generated can be intense enough to cause second-degree burns on skin contact within seconds.
Beyond the immediate danger to your hands, the consequences extend to your personal property and home safety. A fire started by a small electronic device can spread rapidly, especially if it ignites nearby fabrics, papers, or furniture. The smoke from burning lithium-ion batteries can also be toxic, releasing harmful chemicals into the air of your home. By choosing to ignore the recall, you are gambling with the safety of your family and your property against a known, documented risk. The five reported incidents are not just statistics; they are early warnings of a potentially catastrophic failure mode that has not yet resulted in severe harm only by chance. Do not wait for the next report to become a reality. The safest path is to remove the hazard from your environment immediately.