Children's Stretchy Toys Recalled Over Asbestos Fears in Sand
A range of popular children's stretchy toys has been urgently recalled amid fears that the sand inside the figures may contain asbestos, according to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC). The recall affects Stretcherz Stretch Squad XXL and Slammerz stretchy toys, sold by HTI Toys HK Limited, with the ACCC issuing a safety notice on Friday.
Details of the Recall and Health Risks
The toys were available across Australia, overseas, and through online retailers between 26 August 2025 and 11 February 2026. Laboratory testing revealed that the sand inside these stretchy figures may include tremolite asbestos, a substance banned in Australia due to its serious health risks. Authorities warn that the sand could pose a danger if the toy becomes damaged and the material is released.
Asbestos fibres can be dangerous if inhaled, with exposure potentially leading to serious illnesses such as mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer. This recall highlights ongoing concerns about product safety in children's toys.
What Parents and Consumers Should Do
The ACCC has provided clear instructions for consumers to ensure safety:
- Stop using the toys immediately to prevent any risk of exposure.
- Seek safe disposal advice through the national product safety website for proper handling.
- Return the toy to the retailer where it was purchased to receive a full refund, as part of the recall process.
This proactive approach aims to mitigate health hazards and protect families from potential harm.
Broader Context and Regulatory Monitoring
The discovery comes as regulators continue to monitor toys sold by major retailers and discount chains that contain sand-like materials. This follows major recalls of children's play products in recent months, including mouldable sand and sand art kits, after testing found some products contained asbestos fibres.
These incidents underscore the importance of stringent safety checks and consumer vigilance in the toy industry to prevent health risks associated with hazardous materials.
