Imagine reaching for the handle of your trusty cooler, ready for a day of fun, only to have it turn into a dangerous trap. That chilling scenario has become a reality for many consumers, prompting a significant recall of Igloo coolers. The culprit? A seemingly innocuous tow handle that has allegedly caused numerous fingertip injuries, including some resulting in amputations and fractures.
Igloo Issues Second Recall for Popular Rolling Cooler After More Reports of Harm
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Igloo has expanded its recall of the 90-quart Flip & Tow Rolling Coolers after a surge in injury reports tied to a hazardous tow handle design. On Thursday, the company announced the recall of approximately 130,000 additional coolers in the United States, following 78 reported fingertip injuries—26 of which resulted in amputations, bone fractures, or serious lacerations.
This latest recall builds on an initial action taken in February, when more than one million units were pulled from the market due to similar safety concerns. At that time, the CPSC had received 12 reports of fingertip injuries caused by the cooler’s tow handle. Since then, the total number of reported injuries has increased by 78 new cases that triggered the expanded recall.
“The tow handle can pinch consumers’ fingertips against the cooler, posing fingertip amputation and crushing hazard,” the recall stated.
Identifying the Igloo Coolers Affected by the Recall
The 90-quart Igloo Flip & Tow Rolling Cooler affected by the recall is a large-capacity, wheeled cooler designed for convenience and mobility during outdoor activities such as camping, tailgating, beach trips, and sporting events. Built with durable plastic, the cooler features a hard-sided body and insulated interior capable of holding up to 137 standard 12-ounce cans.
It includes oversized, all-terrain wheels for easy transportation across various surfaces, a locking telescoping tow handle for pulling the cooler with ease, and molded side handles for lifting. The hinged lid opens fully and stays in place for easy access to contents, while integrated cup holders add extra functionality.
The recalled coolers, each prominently displaying the word “IGLOO” on the side, were manufactured before January 2024 and are available in a variety of colors. To determine if a cooler is part of the recall, consumers can check the molded manufacture date located on the bottom of the unit.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, the expanded recall also includes approximately 20,000 units sold in Canada and about 5,900 sold in Mexico. These figures are in addition to the tens of thousands of coolers that were recalled from both countries in February during the initial recall effort.
In the US, the recalled coolers were widely available at major retailers including Academy, Costco, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Target, and various online platforms. They were typically sold at prices ranging from $80 to $140.
Steps to Take If You Have the Recalled Cooler
If you purchased a 90-quart Igloo Flip & Tow Rolling Cooler between January 2019 and January 2025, Igloo advises you to stop using it immediately due to the risk of serious finger injuries. Affected consumers are encouraged to contact the company to receive a free replacement handle as part of the recall remedy.
Despite the recall, Igloo reaffirmed its commitment to product integrity, stating in a public statement that consumer “safety and satisfaction” remain its highest priorities.
Source: The New York Times