Amazon Recalls 1,300 Mermaid Costumes Over Banned Phthalate

Amazon has issued a recall for a popular children’s mermaid costume after discovering a banned phthalate in the fabric, prompting parents to immediately remove the garment from their kids.

Recall Announcement

The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission released the recall on Dec. 11, targeting SKCAIHT-branded costumes that resemble mermaids or princesses. The announcement urges consumers to “immediately” stop using the recalled costumes and take them away from children.

What the Costume Looks Like

The recalled dress is a knit, purple, strap‑less top adorned with white starfish and other sea‑themed embellishments. The skirt is glittery, featuring blue, purple and pink fabric. The set also includes a headband with white ears, blue seashells, pink starfish, and a mermaid tail.

Production and Pricing

Manufactured in China, the costumes were sold on Amazon for roughly $30 and were available in a children’s size XL. The items were marketed as a fun, fantasy‑inspired outfit for young fans of mermaids and princesses.

The Dangerous Chemical

Officials identified a prohibited phthalate in the costumes, a chemical that is banned under federal law. Phthalates are commonly used to soften plastics, but they become toxic if ingested by young children and “can cause adverse side effects,” the commission said.

Commission Guidance

“Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled costumes and take them away from children,” the recall statement read. The commission’s message emphasizes the urgency of removing the product from any child’s environment.

How to Dispose of the Costume

Customers are instructed to cut the dress and submit a photo of the destroyed product to the company at [email protected]. Once the photo is verified, a refund will be issued. The recall specifically requests that the garment be destroyed rather than stored or repurposed.

Sales Figures

Between March 2022 and July 2025, about 1,300 of these costumes were sold on Amazon, according to the announcement. The recall covers all units sold during that period.

What Parents Should Do

Parents should first verify that the costume they own matches the description in the recall. If it does, they should follow the disposal instructions promptly to avoid any risk of exposure to the banned chemical.

Refund Process

After sending a photo of the destroyed costume to [email protected], customers will receive a refund for the purchase price. The commission does not specify a time frame for the refund, but the email address is provided for direct communication.

Key Takeaways

• Amazon is recalling SKCAIHT mermaid costumes due to a banned phthalate.
• The recall covers 1,300 units sold from 2022 to 2025.
• Parents must destroy the costume and submit a photo for a refund.

The recall highlights the importance of vigilance when purchasing children’s apparel online. By following the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s instructions, parents can protect their children from potential chemical exposure and receive reimbursement for the affected product.