What was recalled
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a recall for specific OshKosh Baby B'gosh quilted jackets due to safety concerns that could put young children at risk. This recall, which was officially announced on November 8, 2017, targets two distinct color variations of the popular outerwear: pink and gray versions of the jacket. These items were marketed under the OshKosh brand and are designed for infants and toddlers, making them a common sight in many households during cooler months. The jackets feature a quilted design intended to provide warmth, but it is the fastening mechanism—specifically the snaps—that has triggered this safety alert.
It is crucial to identify exactly which items are affected, as not all OshKosh products are included in this recall. The recall applies only to jackets with specific style numbers and Universal Product Code (UPC) numbers. You can find these identifiers on the care tag sewn into the inside of the garment, as well as on the attached price tag. For the pink jackets, the affected style number is 13003910. For the gray jackets, the style number is 12691410. The recall covers a wide range of sizes for both colors, from newborn (0-3 months) up to size 5T. Because the UPC codes vary by size, you must check the specific code on your tag against the official list to confirm if your item is part of this batch.
While the provided recall facts do not specify the exact total number of units sold or the specific retail locations where they were distributed, these jackets were generally available at OshKosh and Carter's stores. The lack of specific sales volume data in the current record does not diminish the importance of checking your item. If you purchased a pink or gray quilted jacket with the style numbers 13003910 or 12691410, or if you have the corresponding UPC codes listed in the official CPSC documentation, it is highly likely that your jacket is part of this recall. The absence of detailed sales geography in the facts suggests that consumers should rely on the physical tags and style numbers rather than where or when the purchase was made to determine eligibility.
Understanding exactly what was recalled helps prevent unnecessary panic while ensuring that potentially dangerous items are removed from circulation. By focusing on the specific style and UPC codes, parents can quickly verify their inventory. This precise identification is the first step in protecting your child from the choking hazard associated with the detachable snaps. Once you have confirmed that your jacket matches these specifications, you can proceed to take appropriate action to ensure safety.
The hazard, explained
When we talk about a "choking hazard" in the context of baby clothing, it is easy to glance over the term and assume it refers primarily to small toys or loose buttons that might already be detached. However, the specific danger here lies in the structural integrity of the fasteners themselves. The OshKosh Baby B'gosh quilted jackets rely on snaps to keep them securely closed against the elements. These snaps are designed to hold together with significant tension, ensuring the jacket stays shut during normal wear. The problem identified by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is that these fasteners can unexpectedly detach under stress or even during routine use. This means a piece of hard plastic or metal, which is small enough to fit into a toddler’s mouth but large enough to block an airway, becomes a loose object in the child’s environment.
To understand why this is so dangerous, we have to look at how infant anatomy and behavior interact with small objects. Babies and toddlers explore the world orally; putting things in their mouths is a primary way they learn about textures, shapes, and tastes. When a snap detaches from the jacket, it often falls to the floor or into the crib where the child can easily pick it up. Because these snaps are hard and durable, they do not break apart when bitten or sucked on. If a child manages to fit the detached snap into their mouth, they may inadvertently inhale it or place it deep in the throat. Unlike soft foods that might be chewed or coughed up more easily, a solid, rigid snap can become lodged in the windpipe, completely blocking the flow of air.
The mechanism of injury is particularly insidious because it happens so quickly and silently. A child does not need to be struggling to choke; they simply need to take a breath while the object is positioned over the trachea. The CPSC noted that OshKosh received three reports of snaps detaching, including one specific incident where a child actually put a detached snap in her mouth. While the outcome in that reported case was not fatal, it serves as a stark warning of how close to disaster this hazard is. The risk is not theoretical; it is a physical reality that occurs when the connection between the garment and its fastener fails.
Furthermore, the nature of quilted jackets adds another layer of complexity. These garments are often worn in colder weather, requiring layers underneath. A loose snap might get tucked into the lining of the jacket or fall behind the child while they are playing, making it harder to notice until it is too late. The hazard is not just about the snap falling off; it is about the combination of a small, hard object becoming accessible to a child who lacks the cognitive awareness to avoid putting it in their mouth. This is why immediate removal of the product is critical. We cannot rely on the snap staying attached any longer than necessary, nor can we assume that parental supervision will always catch the moment of detachment. The physical failure of the component creates an immediate, tangible risk of airway obstruction that requires urgent attention.
Who is most at risk
The primary group facing immediate danger in this recall consists of infants and toddlers who wear the OshKosh Baby B'gosh quilted jackets. These garments are specifically designed for young children, typically ranging from newborn size (0-3 months) up to toddler sizes (5T). The vulnerability of this demographic is not merely a matter of age but of developmental stage. Infants and toddlers under the age of three are in a critical period of oral exploration. It is a natural, instinctive part of their cognitive and sensory development to put objects in their mouths to understand texture, shape, and taste. This behavior is so pervasive that it is often the primary way they learn about their environment. Consequently, any small object that can be detached from their clothing becomes a potential threat simply because it ends up within reach of their mouths.
The specific hazard here involves the metal or plastic snaps used to secure the jacket. For an adult, a loose snap might be an annoyance, easily ignored or fixed. For a baby or toddler, however, a detached snap is a perfect choking hazard. These small components are often round and hard, fitting easily into the narrow airway of a young child. Because infants have smaller tracheas (windpipes) than older children and adults, even tiny objects can completely block airflow. The risk is exacerbated by the fact that young children lack the fine motor skills to safely remove or spit out such items if they become lodged in their throat. Furthermore, toddlers are still developing their swallowing coordination and may inadvertently inhale an object rather than swallow it, leading to aspiration.
The urgency of this risk is underscored by the incident reports already received by OshKosh. There have been three documented cases where snaps detached from these jackets. Most concerning is the report of a child actively placing a detached snap in her mouth. This confirms that the design flaw is not just theoretical; it is actively occurring during normal use. While any child wearing the jacket is at risk, those who are teething or who have a strong habit of mouthing objects may be at even higher risk, as they are more likely to investigate the snaps closely or pull on them with their teeth.
Parents and caregivers must understand that this risk applies regardless of how carefully the jacket is worn. Snap mechanisms can fail due to wear and tear, repeated washing, or manufacturing defects that weaken the attachment points over time. Therefore, the entire group of children who fit within the recalled size ranges—whether they are 6-month-olds in pink jackets or 3-year-olds in gray ones—is considered at risk until the item is removed from their wardrobe. The safety of these vulnerable users depends entirely on the immediate intervention of the adults responsible for them.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
If you purchased a quilted jacket from OshKosh or Carter’s recently, it is important to verify whether your specific garment is part of this safety recall. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has identified particular models that require immediate attention due to potential hazards. To determine if your jacket is affected, you need to look for very specific details on the tags attached to the garment. Do not rely solely on the color or general style, as other jackets with similar appearances may be safe. Instead, focus on the unique identification numbers printed on the labels.
The primary location to find this information is the care tag sewn into the inside of the jacket. On the front side of this interior tag, you will find the style number. This number is crucial for identifying the specific model involved in the recall. Additionally, on the back of that same care tag, there is a UPC (Universal Product Code) number. You can also find both the style number and the UPC number printed on the external price tag attached to the jacket. It is essential to check all these locations because the tags provide the definitive proof needed to confirm whether your item is included in this recall.
The recalled items are specifically OshKosh Baby B'gosh quilted jackets available in two colors: pink and gray. The recall covers a wide range of sizes, from infant sizes (0-3 months) up to toddler sizes (5T). Because the style numbers and UPC codes vary by both color and size, you must cross-reference your tag information with the specific lists below.
Pink Jackets:
- Style Number: 13003910
- Sizes and corresponding UPC Codes:
- 0-3M: 190795946918
- 6M: 190795946956
- 9M: 190795946963
- 12M: 190795946925
- 18M: 190795946932
- 24M: 190795946949
- Style Number: 23003910
- Sizes and corresponding UPC Codes:
- 2T: 190795946062
- 3T: 190795946079
- 4T: 190795946086
- 5T: 190795946093
Gray Jackets:
- Style Number: 12691410
- Sizes and corresponding UPC Codes:
- 0-3M: 190795930399
- 6M: 190795930436
- 9M: 190795930443
- 12M: 190795930405
- 18M: 190795930412
- 24M: 190795930429
- Style Number: 22691410
- Sizes and corresponding UPC Codes:
- 2T: 190795919660
- 3T: 190795919677
- 4T: 190795919684
- 5T: 190795919691
If your jacket matches any of the style numbers and UPC codes listed above, it is part of the recall. Please do not wear the jacket until you have taken the necessary steps to resolve the issue.
What to do — step by step
If you own an OshKosh Baby B'gosh quilted jacket that matches the details below, your immediate priority is simple: remove the jacket from your child’s wardrobe right now. This is not a situation for "wait and see." The hazard involves snaps that can detach, creating a small object that poses a serious choking risk to infants and toddlers who explore the world by putting things in their mouths. Please take the recalled jackets away from children immediately. Do not donate them, give them away, or leave them in a closet where they might be retrieved later. Securely store them out of reach until you have processed the return.
Once the jacket is safe and secured, you have two clear options for resolving the issue: returning the item to a physical store or contacting OshKosh directly for a refund by mail. Both remedies are fully supported by the recall notice, so choose the method that best fits your schedule and convenience.
- Locate your proof of purchase and identify the item. Before you head out or make a call, find the jacket and check the care tag sewn on the inside. Look for the style number on the front of the tag and the UPC code on the back. You can also verify these numbers on the attached price tag. Ensure the style number and UPC code match one of the specific combinations listed in the recall details (such as Pink Style 13003910 or Gray Style 12691410 with their respective sizes and UPCs).
- Option A: Return to a store. You may take the jacket, along with your receipt if you have it (though often not strictly required for recall refunds), to any OshKosh or Carter’s retail location. The staff will process the return for you. This is often the fastest way to get your money back without dealing with shipping logistics.
- Option B: Contact OshKosh for a mail-in refund. If you prefer not to visit a store, you can contact OshKosh directly. Call them at 800-692-4674 between 9 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, visit www.oshkosh.com and click on "Product Recalls" at the bottom of the page for detailed instructions on how to proceed with a mail-in refund.
Understanding your refund value. When you process your return or contact OshKosh, the remedy provided is a full refund in the form of a gift card. The amount depends on the size of the jacket you are returning. For infant-sized jackets (such as 0-3M through 24M), you will receive a $34 gift card. For toddler-sized jackets (sizes 2T through 5T), you will receive a $36 gift card. Please note that this is issued specifically as a gift card, not a cash refund or credit back to your original payment method.
Keep records. It is wise to keep a copy of any confirmation emails, return receipts, or call logs from your interaction with OshKosh. This ensures you have proof that you participated in the recall remedy should any questions arise later.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have identified that your child is wearing one of the recalled OshKosh Baby B'gosh quilted jackets, the good news is that the company has established a straightforward and generous remedy to resolve the issue. Because the defect involves the snaps detaching—a part that poses a serious choking risk—there is no repair option available. You cannot simply send the jacket back to have it fixed or replaced with a new snap. Instead, OshKosh has opted for a full refund process, which is often the most convenient route for parents looking to move on from a potentially dangerous item without the hassle of shipping logistics.
The specific remedy provided by the recall notice involves receiving a gift card rather than cash back or store credit in the traditional sense. The value of this gift card depends entirely on the size of the jacket you purchased. If you have an infant-sized jacket, you are eligible for a $34 gift card. For those who purchased a toddler-sized jacket, the refund amount is slightly higher at $36. This approach ensures that the compensation roughly aligns with the original purchase price or current replacement cost, acknowledging that these high-quality quilted jackets are not inexpensive items.
You have two primary ways to initiate this refund process, and you can choose whichever method feels most comfortable for you. The first option is to take the jacket directly to a physical retail location. OshKosh has authorized returns at any of their stores or at Carter's locations. This can be particularly appealing if you want immediate confirmation that the item has been processed and perhaps even browse for a different style in person. Simply bring the recalled jacket with you; having the original receipt is helpful but not always strictly required for these types of safety recalls, though it never hurts to have it on hand.
If you prefer to handle this entirely online or over the phone, OshKosh offers direct customer support. You can contact them by calling 800-692-4674. Their team is available from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. This is a good option if you have questions about the process or need assistance with the refund details. Alternatively, you can visit their website at www.oshkosh.com. Navigate to the bottom of the homepage and click on "Product Recalls" to find more detailed information and likely an online form or additional instructions for processing your return remotely. This digital route is ideal if you do not have easy access to a nearby Carter's or OshKosh store.
It is important to note that the remedy is limited to the gift card refund as described. The recall does not mention sending a replacement jacket of the same model, nor does it offer a repair service. Therefore, your options are strictly to return the item for the specified gift card value or to contact them directly to see if any other accommodations can be made, though the gift card is the standard offering. Do not attempt to sew the snaps back on yourself, as this may compromise the fabric further and does not guarantee safety. The only safe course of action is to remove the jacket from your child’s wardrobe immediately and follow one of the steps above to secure your refund.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable why a parent might hesitate to part with a favorite jacket, especially one that is warm, stylish, and perhaps recently purchased. The snaps on the OshKosh Baby B'gosh quilted jackets may look secure at first glance, and the risk of them coming loose can feel abstract or unlikely until it happens. However, ignoring this recall is not merely an inconvenience; it is a direct gamble with your child’s physical safety. The core issue here is not just about the quality of the garment, but about the fundamental vulnerability of infants and toddlers who explore the world through their mouths.
The hazard described in this recall is specific: the snaps can detach from the jacket. For an adult, a loose snap is a minor annoyance that might result in a missing button or a slightly misaligned closure. For a young child, however, that same detached snap becomes a serious foreign object. Infants and toddlers have not yet developed the fine motor skills to handle small items with precision, nor do they have the instinctive awareness to avoid putting non-food items into their mouths. When a snap comes loose from the jacket, it is likely to land on the floor, in a crib, or in a stroller basket—places where a curious child will easily find it.
The consequences of ignoring this warning are grounded in the reality of how children interact with small objects. Once a detached snap is within reach, there is a significant risk that a child will pick it up and place it in their mouth. As reported by OshKosh, there have already been three incidents involving these jackets where snaps detached. In one of these instances, a child actually put the detached snap in her mouth. While this specific report did not result in a severe injury, it highlights the immediate danger. A small metal or plastic snap can easily become lodged in the airway, leading to choking. Choking is a rapid and terrifying emergency that can lead to brain damage or death if not addressed instantly.
Furthermore, even if the snap does not cause immediate choking, swallowing it poses other serious risks. The object could travel down the esophagus and cause internal obstruction or perforation, requiring invasive medical procedures to remove. There is also the risk of the sharp edges of a detached snap causing cuts or abrasions inside the mouth or throat. By continuing to use the recalled jacket, you are leaving your child exposed to these preventable dangers every time they move, crawl, or play in their clothing. The peace of mind that comes from knowing your child is safe is worth more than the convenience of keeping a garment that has been deemed unsafe by the manufacturer and the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
Ignoring the recall also means missing out on the remedy offered. OshKosh is providing full refunds in the form of gift cards, allowing you to replace the item with something safer without financial loss. Continuing to use the jacket not only endangers your child but also denies you and your family the opportunity to resolve the issue through the proper channels. The goal of this recall is to remove a known hazard from the marketplace, and by participating, you help ensure that no other families face the same anxiety. Do not wait for another incident to occur; the statistics show that choking is one of the leading causes of injury death in young children, and small detachable parts are a common culprit. Take the jacket away now, before it has the chance to cause harm.
Staying safe: broader tips
While specific product recalls are essential tools for keeping families safe, they only address individual items after a potential issue has been identified. True safety is built on daily habits and proactive awareness. One of the most effective ways to protect your children is to become familiar with how to read care tags and garment labels from the moment you bring an item into your home. Unlike food or electronics, clothing defects are often hidden within seams, snaps, or zippers. By taking a few seconds to inspect new purchases for loose threads, unstable fasteners, or thin fabric in high-wear areas, you can catch minor issues before they become major hazards. This simple habit of visual inspection empowers you to be the first line of defense against everyday accidents.
Another critical layer of protection is staying connected with official recall notifications without waiting for a crisis. Many parents do not realize that they can sign up for email alerts from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and other relevant agencies. These newsletters provide timely updates on new recalls, allowing you to check your home inventory regularly rather than reactively. You might also consider conducting a quarterly "safety sweep" of your child’s room and play areas. This is an excellent opportunity to verify that items are age-appropriate, that small parts are securely attached, and that older siblings' toys are not accessible to younger ones who might put them in their mouths.
Finally, remember that safety is about creating an environment where curiosity can be explored without risk. For products involving electrical components or batteries, always ensure compartments are secured with screws rather than simple snaps that can be easily opened by a determined child. For furniture and large items, regular checks for stability prevent tip-overs, which are a leading cause of injury in the home. By combining these general best practices with a willingness to act quickly when recalls do occur, you create a robust safety net around your family. Stay informed, stay curious about product details, and never hesitate to reach out to manufacturers if something feels off—your instinct is often your best guide.