What was recalled
In September of 2017, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant recall involving infant accessories that had found their way into many nurseries across the country. The specific items at the center of this safety alert are the "Story Time" bib and bootie sets produced by DEMDACO under their popular Nat & Jules brand line. These products were designed with a gentle, soothing aesthetic intended for very young babies, specifically targeting infants between the ages of three and six months. At that time, these multi-colored pastel sets were widely available in retail stores and online, marketed as charming gift options or essential daily wear for newborns and young toddlers.
The recall covers six distinct variations of these bib and bootie sets, each themed to appeal to different interests and tastes. Despite the colorful variety, all affected units share the same fundamental construction flaw that led to the safety warning. The specific models included in this recall are identified by their unique serial numbers, which consumers can find printed on the side of the bib. The affected inventory includes the Dragon Bib & Bootie Set (serial number 5004700491), the Sea Creatures Bib & Bootie Set (serial number 5004700492), the Unicorn Bib & Bootie Set (serial number 5004700493), the Princess Bib & Bootie Set (serial number 5004700494), the Pirate Bib & Bootie Set (serial number 5004700495), and the Rocketship Bib & Bootie Set (serial number 5004700496). It is important to note that while the CPSC report details these specific serial number ranges, it does not provide an exact total count of how many individual units were sold or distributed nationwide.
These sets were notable for their coordinated designs, where the rattle attachments sewn into the booties matched the theme of the bib. For example, the dragon-themed set would feature dragon-related rattles on the feet, while the unicorn set featured corresponding magical motifs. This attention to detail made them appealing to parents looking for cohesive, gift-ready baby items. However, this decorative element is precisely what became the source of concern. The CPSC action was taken after it was determined that these rattle attachments could potentially detach from the booties during normal use. If you purchased any of these Nat & Jules Story Time bib and bootie sets with serial numbers falling within the 5004700491 to 5004700496 range around the time of this 2017 recall, your specific product is part of this safety notice. The manufacturer, DEMDACO, has been actively working to identify and contact consumers who may have these items in their homes to ensure they are removed from use.
The hazard, explained
When we talk about a "choking hazard" in the context of infant products, it is easy to gloss over the term because it sounds so common. However, understanding the specific physical mechanism at play here is crucial for parents and caregivers who want to make informed decisions about their baby’s safety. In this particular recall involving the Nat & Jules Story Time bib and bootie sets, the danger does not come from a loose button or a small detachable charm that might be glued on. Instead, the risk stems from how the rattles are constructed and attached directly into the fabric of the booties.
The core issue lies in the method of attachment. The recalled bib and bootie sets feature rattles that are sewn directly into the material of the booties to coordinate with the theme—whether that is dragons, unicorns, or rocketships. While sewing might seem like a secure way to attach an object, it relies entirely on the integrity of the stitching threads and the strength of the fabric weave over time. For infants who are three to six months old, their movements are becoming more vigorous and less coordinated. They kick their legs, wiggle their toes, and often put their feet directly into their mouths as part of their natural exploration of the world. This constant tugging, pulling, and chewing puts significant stress on the seams holding the rattles in place.
If those stitches fail—due to wear and tear from washing, the force of a baby’s kicks, or simply a manufacturing defect where the thread was not strong enough—the rattle can detach completely. Once detached, the rattle becomes a small, hard object that is easily accessible to a curious infant. The size and shape of these rattles are designed to fit in a hand, which unfortunately also means they can fit into an airway. For a baby whose windpipe is still very narrow, even a small plastic or wooden component can become lodged, blocking the flow of air entirely.
This specific type of hazard is particularly insidious because it often happens without warning. There may be no visible sign that the attachment is about to fail until it actually breaks free. Unlike a loose screw that might rattle around before falling out, a seam can hold firm for weeks and then give way in an instant during play. Once the rattle is loose, the infant is likely to grasp it and place it in their mouth, leading to a sudden obstruction. This is why the CPSC emphasizes immediate removal of these items; the potential for harm is not theoretical but physical and immediate, relying on the size of the object relative to the infant's developing anatomy.
It is also important to note that while no incidents have been reported in this specific recall, the nature of choking hazards means that serious injury or death can occur rapidly. Unlike a burn or a cut, which often have visible signs and cause immediate pain that alerts the caregiver, a choking incident can happen silently and quickly. This underscores why proactive removal is the only safe course of action, rather than waiting to see if a defect appears. The risk is inherent in the design's reliance on sewing small, potentially hard objects into flexible fabric that undergoes repeated mechanical stress.
Who is most at risk
The primary group at risk in this specific recall consists of infants between the ages of three and six months. This age range is particularly critical because babies in this developmental stage are naturally curious and actively exploring their environment through touch and taste. It is a normal, healthy part of infant development to put objects into their mouths. For a baby wearing these DEMDACO bib and bootie sets, the hazard is not just theoretical; it is an immediate physical possibility that arises from the product’s design. The rattles are sewn directly into the booties, which means they are in constant contact with the infant’s feet. As the baby kicks, moves, or wriggles, the stress on the stitching can cause these small, detachable parts to come loose.
Infants in this age group are uniquely vulnerable to choking hazards for several physiological reasons. First, their airways are significantly smaller than those of older children or adults, meaning that even a small object like a detached rattle can completely block the passage of air. Second, babies have not yet developed the motor skills to effectively cough up an object if it becomes lodged in their throat. Their cough reflex is still maturing, and they may not be able to generate enough force to clear an obstruction. Furthermore, infants lack the cognitive ability to recognize danger or understand that a small object in their mouth could be harmful. They do not have the instinct to spit out items that are difficult to swallow or uncomfortable, which increases the likelihood of aspiration.
The risk is amplified by the nature of the product itself. These bib and bootie sets are designed for comfort and aesthetic appeal, featuring multi-colored pastel themes and coordinating rattles. The very features that make them appealing to parents—cute designs and sensory toys attached to the feet—become the source of danger if the construction fails. Because the rattles are intended to entertain the baby, they may be more likely to be mouthed or manipulated by the infant than a standard bootie would be. This increases the frequency of exposure to the potential hazard. While no incidents have been reported at this time, the potential for serious injury or death exists because the mechanism of failure (detachment) directly interacts with the baby’s natural behavior (putting things in their mouth).
It is also important to note that while the recall targets infants aged three to six months, any child who can fit the product and has the ability to pull parts off could be at risk. However, the combination of the specific age range, the developmental stage of oral exploration, and the physical vulnerability of their airways makes babies in this narrow window the most critical demographic to protect. Parents and caregivers must understand that the safety of these products depends entirely on the integrity of the sewing. Once that integrity is compromised, the product transforms from a harmless accessory into a dangerous object for the specific user it was designed for.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Identifying whether your infant bib and bootie set is part of this specific recall requires a careful look at several key details. Because DEMDACO produced these items under the "Nat & Jules" brand name, the first thing you should check is the packaging or any tags attached to the product. Look closely for the Nat & Jules logo. If you have the original box, it should clearly display this branding along with the specific theme of the set. However, if the packaging has been discarded, you can still identify the item by examining the product itself, particularly the bib portion.
The most reliable way to confirm if your set is included in this recall is by locating the serial number. This number is not on the booties or the rattle attachments; instead, it is printed directly on the side of the bib. The recalled sets have serial numbers ranging specifically from 5004700491 to 5004700496. Each number in this range corresponds to a unique theme, so you need to check which number is present on your bib to determine if it is one of the six affected models.
Here is a breakdown of the specific serial numbers and their corresponding themes to help you verify your set:
- 5004700491: Dragon Bib & Bootie Set
- 5004700492: Sea Creatures Bib & Bootie Set
- 5004700493: Unicorn Bib & Bootie Set
- 5004700494: Princess Bib & Bootie Set
- 5004700495: Pirate Bib & Bootie Set
- 5004700496: Rocketship Bib & Bootie Set
In addition to the serial number, you can look for visual cues that match the description provided in the recall notice. These sets are designed for infants aged 3 through 6 months and feature multi-colored pastel tones. The booties in each set have rattle attachments sewn into them that coordinate with the specific theme of the bib. For example, if you have a Princess set, the rattle on the bootie will likely feature princess-themed colors or shapes. While the visual style can help you recognize the product line, always rely on the serial number for definitive confirmation.
If you find that your bib has one of the serial numbers listed above, it is part of the recall, regardless of when or where you purchased it. These sets were sold under the Nat & Jules brand name, so if you have any doubt about the manufacturer, checking for that brand label alongside the serial number will give you clarity. Once you have confirmed the serial number matches one of the six recalled items, you should treat the product as unsafe and follow the return instructions immediately.
What to do — step by step
If you have purchased a Nat & Jules Story Time bib and bootie set for your infant, the most important thing you can do right now is prioritize immediate safety over convenience. The CPSC has identified a specific mechanical failure in these products where the rattles sewn into the booties can detach, creating a serious choking hazard for babies who explore the world by putting objects in their mouths. Because this risk is inherent to the product's construction, there is no way to fix the defect yourself. Therefore, your first and most critical step is to immediately stop using these bib sets entirely. Do not wait for the rattles to fall out; remove them from your home or keep them securely out of reach of any child under seven years old. This is not a minor inconvenience but a necessary precaution to prevent potential injury or worse. Once you have secured the product away from children, you need to initiate the return process to get your money back. The remedy provided by DEMDACO is straightforward: they are offering a full refund for these items. You do not need to mail the product back to a warehouse or wait for a shipping label in the mail. Instead, take the recalled bib and bootie sets directly to any store that currently sells DEMDACO products. This could be a large retail chain, a baby specialty shop, or a department store. When you arrive at the store, explain that you have a recalled Nat & Jules product and wish to return it for a full refund. The store staff should be able to process this return regardless of whether you still have your original receipt, as the recall is handled by the manufacturer. This step ensures that the hazardous item leaves your possession and compensates you for the purchase. If you are unable to visit a physical store or if you simply prefer to handle the logistics online, you can contact DEMDACO directly for further assistance. You may call their toll-free number at 888-336-3226 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, visit their website at www.demdaco.com and click on the "Product Recall" section for more detailed information. While the primary remedy is a return to a store for a refund, having this contact information is valuable if you encounter any issues with the retail partner or have specific questions about the serial numbers on your product. Remember, taking these steps promptly removes the danger from your baby’s environment and resolves the issue efficiently.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have determined that you possess one of the recalled Nat & Jules Story Time bib and bootie sets, the primary remedy offered by the manufacturer is a full refund. It is important to understand that this recall does not involve a repair option or a direct replacement with a modified, safer product. Instead, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and DEMDACO have structured the resolution around removing the hazardous items from circulation entirely and returning your money. This approach prioritizes safety over convenience, ensuring that no child continues to be exposed to the choking risk posed by the detachable rattles.
The process for obtaining your refund is designed to be straightforward and consumer-friendly. You do not need to contact DEMDACO directly to initiate the return if you prefer a more immediate resolution at a physical location. The recall notice explicitly states that you can return the recalled bib sets to any store that sells DEMDACO’s products. This means that whether you purchased the item from a large national retailer, a specialty baby boutique, or an online marketplace that carries the brand, you can likely visit their customer service desk. Present the product there, and they should process your full refund according to their standard return policies for recalled items. This method is often the fastest way to resolve the issue, as it allows you to get your money back immediately without waiting for mail processing.
If you are unable to return the item to a physical store, or if you prefer to handle the communication directly with the manufacturer, DEMDACO has established specific channels for consumer assistance. You can reach their dedicated recall support team by calling their toll-free number at 888-336-3226. When you call, please be prepared to do so during their business hours, which are from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Time, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you can find detailed instructions and additional information by visiting their website at www.demdaco.com. Once on the site, navigate to the "Product Recall" section, which serves as the central hub for all recall-related inquiries and documentation.
While completing this process, it is helpful to know why a refund is the chosen remedy rather than a repair. The hazard involves rattles that are sewn into the booties of the bib set. Because these attachments can detach during normal use, creating a choking hazard for infants, the only way to guarantee safety is to ensure the specific defective components are no longer in your home. Therefore, DEMDACO cannot simply send you new bolts or adhesive to fix the existing set. The full refund allows you to replace the recalled item with a different brand or model that meets current safety standards, giving you peace of mind that your child’s next accessory is secure. Remember to stop using the recalled bib and bootie sets immediately and keep them away from children while you arrange for this return.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable why a parent might hesitate to return a seemingly innocuous item like a bib and bootie set. Perhaps the colors are adorable, the fabric feels soft, or you simply cannot find the time to trek back to the store. You might look at the rattle sewn into the heel of the bootie and think it is securely attached, especially if you have not yet noticed any loose stitching or heard a faint rattling sound that suggests detachment. However, ignoring a recall notice for this specific DEMDACO product carries risks that extend far beyond mere inconvenience. The core issue here is not about the quality of the fabric or the comfort of the fit; it is about a fundamental mechanical failure point that poses a direct threat to an infant’s airway.
The hazard identified by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is that the rattles sewn into the booties can detach. For an adult, a detached plastic or metal rattle from a shoe might be a nuisance to clean up. For an infant aged 3 through 6 months, it is a potentially fatal choking hazard. At this developmental stage, babies are in a critical phase of oral exploration. They do not yet have the cognitive ability to distinguish between a toy meant for shaking and a small object that belongs in their mouth. If the rattle detaches while the baby is wearing the booties, it can easily fall into the crib, onto the floor, or directly into the infant’s hands. Within seconds, an infant may bring this small, hard object to their mouth. Because these rattles are designed to be small enough to fit inside the toy compartment of the bootie, they are also small enough to obstruct an infant’s narrow airway completely.
While the recall facts state that no incidents or injuries have been reported at the time of this notice, the absence of reported cases does not mean the risk is theoretical. It simply means that, thus far, the manufacturers and regulators have not received data on actual harm. This silence is a statistic, not a guarantee of safety. Choking is a leading cause of accidental death in infants under one year old, and it often happens quickly and without warning. Once an object blocks the airway, there are only minutes before brain damage or death occurs from lack of oxygen. By continuing to use these recalled items, you are gambling with that narrow window of safety. You are relying on the stitching holding firm every single time your baby moves, kicks, or rolls, despite evidence that it may not.
Beyond the immediate physical danger, ignoring a recall can also leave you unprotected in other ways. If an injury were to occur because you continued using a known defective product, it could complicate any potential legal or insurance claims, as using a product after a safety warning is often viewed as assuming the risk. More practically, by keeping the item, you are delaying the simple act of removing the danger from your home. The sooner you return these sets, the sooner your baby is safe from this specific mechanical failure. Do not wait for a rattle to fall out to realize the danger; the recall exists precisely because that failure is possible, and the consequence is far too severe to risk."
Staying safe: broader tips
While this specific recall addresses a manufacturing defect in infant bibs and booties, the underlying safety principle applies to countless products in your home: regular, intentional inspection is one of the most effective tools for preventing accidents. Small detachable parts, whether they are rattles sewn into clothing, buttons on pajamas, or beads on toys, pose a significant risk because infants explore the world primarily through their mouths. Unlike older children who understand boundaries and consequences, babies under six months lack the cognitive development to recognize that an object should not go inside their mouth. Therefore, relying solely on the product’s original design is not enough; you must act as a secondary layer of defense by checking items before every use.
To stay proactive about safety beyond this specific recall, consider adopting a routine "tug test" for any item that involves small attachments. Gently pull on rattles, eyes, or decorative elements on clothing and toys to ensure they are securely fastened. If you feel any looseness, resistance, or hear a faint crinkling sound indicating internal components are shifting, remove the item from circulation immediately. This simple habit can catch wear-and-tear issues that occur over time, even in products that were originally safe. Additionally, keep a mental or physical list of age-appropriate toys and clothing, as developmental milestones change rapidly. What is safe for a three-month-old may become hazardous by six months once they begin grasping objects with precision.
Another critical step in broader safety education is staying informed about recalls without waiting for a crisis. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) maintains a comprehensive database of recalls that covers everything from cribs and strollers to electronics and pet supplies. Subscribing to their email alerts or checking their website weekly can help you identify potential hazards in other products you own before they cause harm. Furthermore, always register your products after purchase; this ensures that if a manufacturer discovers a defect in a batch you own, you will be notified directly with instructions on how to remedy the situation.
Finally, create a safe environment by constantly evaluating your home for choking hazards at your child’s eye level and hand reach. This includes not just clothing accessories, but also coins, batteries, small magnets, and broken toy parts. By combining regular physical inspections of products with broader awareness of recall news and environmental risks, you build a robust safety net that protects your child even when individual products fail. Remember that safety is an active practice, not a passive state, and your consistent attention is the best guarantee against preventable injuries.