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Consumer Daily Reports

Baby and kids clothes are at the top of this week's recall roundup

By News Desk of ConsumerAffairs
March 6, 2026

HALO Magic Sleepsuits recalled over zipper

HALO Dream is recalling certain HALO Magic Sleepsuits after reports that a zipper head can detach and create a choking hazard for infants.

  • Specific hazard: A zipper head can detach from certain sleepsuits, creating a choking hazard.
  • Scope/stats: About 45,000 units sold online at Halosleep.com, Amazon.com, Walmart.com and Target.com (about $50) from September 2025 through February 2026; 15 detachment reports, no injuries reported.
  • Immediate action: Stop using the sleepsuit and contact HALO Dream for a refund or replacement.

Product

HALO Dream, Inc., of New York City, is recalling certain HALO Magic Sleepsuit infant sleepsuits because the zipper head can detach. The recalled products have double zippers running down each side of the front and are labeled HALO Magic Sleepsuit. Only specific batch codes are included in the recall.

The hazard

According to the notice, the zipper head can detach from certain sleepsuits, posing a choking hazard to infants. The firm has received 15 reports of the zipper head detaching from the garment; no injuries have been reported.

What to do

Consumers should stop using the recalled sleepsuits immediately. Check the sewn-in label and hang tag for batch codes PO30592, PO30641 and PO30685 (also marked Made in India). Contact HALO Dream to receive a refund or replacement.

Company contact

HALO Dream toll-free at 833-791-0420 (9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. ET Monday through Friday), email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or online at www.sleepsuitrecall.com. Consumers can also visit www.halosleep.com and click on Recalls at the bottom of the page.

Source


Forever 21 kids pajama pants fail test

Unique Brands Com is recalling a small number of Forever 21 Kids Disney Mickey Mouse pajama pants because they violate federal flammability standards for childrens sleepwear.

  • Specific hazard: The pajama pants violate mandatory flammability standards, posing a burn hazard and a risk of serious injury or death.
  • Scope/stats: About 230 units sold on Forever21.com from September 2025 through November 2025 for about $25; no incidents reported.
  • Immediate action: Stop using the pajama pants and contact Unique Brands Com to get a full refund with a prepaid return label.

Product

Unique Brands Com, Inc. has recalled Forever 21 Kids Disney Mickey Mouse pajama pants with black stripes after the product was found to violate mandatory flammability standards for childrens sleepwear. The pants were sold in childrens sizes 5/6 through 13/14 and include item number 01334347 on a sewn-in side-seam label below the barcode.

The hazard

The recalled childrens pajama pants do not meet required flammability standards, which increases the risk the sleepwear can ignite and burn quickly. CPSC said this creates a burn hazard and a risk of serious injury or death to children. No incidents or injuries have been reported.

What to do

Consumers should stop using the recalled pajama pants immediately and contact Unique Brands Com for a full refund. The company will provide a prepaid shipping label so consumers can return the pajama pants.

Company contact

Unique Brands Com toll-free at 888-684-5375 (9 a.m. to 3 p.m. ET Tuesday through Thursday), email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or online at Forever21.com/pages/product-recalls or Forever21.com (click Recall at the top of the page).

Source


Tomum minoxidil bottles lack child-resistant caps

Belleka is recalling Tomum Minoxidil Hair Growth Treatment spray bottles because they are not child-resistant as required, raising a poisoning risk for young children.

  • Specific hazard: The minoxidil-containing serum is packaged in non-child-resistant bottles, creating a poisoning risk if swallowed by children.
  • Scope/stats: About 27,400 units sold on Amazon.com from March 2025 through September 2025 for about $20; no incidents reported.
  • Immediate action: Secure the product out of childrens reach and contact Belleka for a free replacement with child-resistant bottles.

Product

Belleka Inc., doing business as TOMUM, is recalling spray bottles for Tomum Minoxidil Hair Growth Treatment (100 mL) sold on Amazon because the packaging is not child-resistant. The recalled bottles are silver with a blue wraparound label and a black cap, and they come packaged in a blue box labeled TOMUM and Hair Growth Treatment.

The hazard

The hair serum contains minoxidil, which must be sold in child-resistant packaging under the Poison Prevention Packaging Act. CPSC said the bottles are not child-resistant, creating a risk of serious injury or death from poisoning if the contents are swallowed by young children. No incidents or injuries have been reported.

What to do

Consumers should immediately place the recalled serum bottles out of sight and reach of children. Contact Belleka for a free replacement product that includes two child-resistant bottles of serum (60 mL per unit). Consumers will be asked to dispose of the recalled product bottle and email a photo of the bottle in the trash to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Company contact

Belleka at 862 244-1785 (9 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET Monday through Friday), email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or online at https://itomum.com/contact-us/ or https://itomum.com.

Source


Building set recalled over accessible button batteries

RBS Toys is recalling Cubimana Island Storm 3 In 1 Building Sets because children can access button cell batteries in an LED component, creating a potentially deadly ingestion hazard.

  • Specific hazard: Button cell batteries in the LED light piece can be easily accessed, creating a serious ingestion hazard.
  • Scope/stats: About 3,950 sets sold on Amazon.com from October 2025 through January 2026 for about $30; no incidents reported.
  • Immediate action: Take the toy away from children, remove and dispose of batteries, and contact the seller for a refund after disposing of the product.

Product

Shenzhen Ruibosi Technology Co., Ltd., doing business as RBS Toys, is recalling Cubimana Island Storm 3 In 1 Building Sets (model HG1004) sold on Amazon. The 781-piece set comes in a black box with images of a pirate base and pirate ship. CPSC said the toy violates mandatory toy safety requirements because button cell batteries in the LED light piece are accessible.

The hazard

The battery compartment within the LED light piece contains button cell batteries that can be easily accessed by children. If swallowed, button cell or coin batteries can cause severe internal chemical burns, serious injuries, and death. No incidents or injuries have been reported.

What to do

Consumers should immediately take the building sets away from children, stop using the recalled toys, and remove and properly dispose of the batteries. To receive a full refund, consumers will be asked to throw the product away and email a photo of the disposed product to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Company contact

RBS Toys by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Source


CPSC flags CCCEI power strips for fire risk

The CPSC is warning consumers to stop using CCCEI power strips sold on Amazon because they lack supplementary overcurrent protection and can pose a serious fire risk if overloaded.

  • Specific hazard: The power strips lack supplementary overcurrent protection, increasing the risk of fire if overloaded.
  • Scope/stats: CCCEI power strips with 6-foot, 10-foot, or 15-foot cords were distributed via Amazon.com; the notice is a CPSC warning, not a standard recall.
  • Immediate action: Stop using the power strips immediately and consult the CPSC notice for safety guidance.

Product

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is urging consumers to stop using CCCEI brand power strips immediately due to a fire risk. The power strips have a black metal enclosure with six receptacles and individual on/off switches and were sold with 6-foot, 10-foot, or 15-foot cords.

The hazard

CPSC said the power strips do not contain supplementary overcurrent protection, which creates a risk of fire if the power strips are overloaded. A resulting fire can cause serious injury or death from smoke inhalation and burns.

What to do

Consumers should stop using CCCEI power strips with 6-foot, 10-foot, or 15-foot power cords immediately. If you believe you have experienced a problem related to overheating, melting, or fire, report it to the CPSC and keep the product away from use until you have reviewed the official guidance in the notice.

Company contact

The CPSC notice did not list a company contact for this warning. Consumers should use the source link below for the full CPSC notice and any updates.

Source


Heated insoles warning cites battery fire danger

The CPSC is warning consumers to immediately dispose of Junsyoung heated insoles sold on Amazon because an internal lithium-ion battery can overheat and ignite.

  • Specific hazard: The lithium-ion battery can overheat and ignite, creating a fire hazard and risk of serious burns.
  • Scope/stats: Junsyoung heated insoles (also associated with seller name JAMRIC on receipts) were sold on Amazon from July 2023 through March 2024.
  • Immediate action: Dispose of the heated insoles immediately following local hazardous-waste procedures.

Product

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is warning consumers to stop using Junsyoung heated insoles immediately due to a fire hazard. The insoles are black and red, contain a lithium-ion battery in the heel, and are operated by remote control; Junsyoung or seller name JAMRIC may appear on the purchase receipt.

The hazard

CPSC said the internal lithium-ion battery can overheat and ignite while in use. That can lead to a fire and serious burn injuries, particularly because the product is worn close to the body.

What to do

CPSC urges consumers to dispose of the defective heated insoles immediately and follow local hazardous-waste disposal procedures for products containing lithium-ion batteries. Do not continue using, charging, or storing the insoles indoors if you suspect overheating or damage.

Company contact

The CPSC notice did not provide a company contact for this warning. Consumers should review the full CPSC notice at the source link below for additional details and updates.

Source


UHOMEPRO dressers flagged for tip-over hazard

The CPSC is warning consumers to stop using UHOMEPRO 5-drawer dressers because they are unstable when not anchored and violate a mandatory clothing storage standard.

  • Specific hazard: The dressers can tip over if not anchored, creating tip-over and entrapment hazards for children.
  • Scope/stats: UHOMEPRO 5-drawer dressers (15.7 by 26 by 38.6 inches; about 66 pounds) were sold online at Walmart.com for about $100 and may have been sold elsewhere.
  • Immediate action: Stop using the dresser and either anchor it securely to the wall or dispose of it; do not resell or give it away.

Product

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is warning consumers to stop using UHOMEPRO 5-Drawer Dressers immediately due to a tip-over and entrapment risk. The dressers are not labeled and were sold in white, black, and brown with five drawers.

The hazard

CPSC said the dressers are unstable if they are not anchored to the wall, which can lead to tip-over and entrapment incidents that cause severe injuries or death to children. The agency said the dressers violate the mandatory standard for clothing storage units required by the STURDY Act.

What to do

CPSC urges consumers to stop using the UHOMEPRO 5-Drawer Dresser immediately. Consumers should either dispose of it in accordance with local disposal requirements or anchor it securely to the wall. Do not sell or give away these hazardous clothing storage units.

Company contact

CPSC asks consumers to report any incidents involving injury or product defect at www.SaferProducts.gov.

Source


Full-face snorkel masks warning cites drowning risk

The CPSC is warning consumers to stop using OUSPT full-face snorkel masks because breathing problems and elevated carbon dioxide levels can lead to loss of consciousness and drowning.

  • Specific hazard: The mask can cause labored breathing and increased carbon dioxide, which can lead to loss of consciousness and drowning.
  • Scope/stats: OUSPT full-face snorkel masks were sold on Amazon.com from March 2019 through February 2026.
  • Immediate action: Stop using the mask immediately and dispose of it; do not resell or give it away.

Product

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is warning consumers to stop using OUSPT full-face snorkel masks immediately due to a drowning hazard. The full-face masks have a snorkel tube at the top center and OUSPT printed on the snorkel tube; they were sold in various colors.

The hazard

CPSC said the mask can cause consumers to experience labored breathing that may lead to loss of consciousness or excess fluid in the lungs, increasing drowning risk. The agency also warned the mask can cause increased levels of carbon dioxide, which can worsen breathing difficulty while in the mask.

What to do

CPSC urges consumers to stop using the OUSPT full-face snorkel masks and immediately dispose of them. Do not sell or give away these masks. If you experience breathing difficulties or symptoms after use, seek medical attention.

Company contact

CPSC asks consumers to report any incidents involving injury or product defect at www.SaferProducts.gov.

Source


Flameless candles warning highlights coin battery access

The CPSC is warning consumers to stop using Jolnyus LED flameless candle sets because a coin battery in the remote can be easily accessed by children, creating a potentially fatal ingestion hazard.

  • Specific hazard: A lithium coin battery in the remote control can be accessed by children, and required Reeses Law warnings are missing.
  • Scope/stats: Two-candle sets (about 6 inches tall) sold on Amazon.com from March 2024 through September 2025 for about $20.
  • Immediate action: Stop using the candles and dispose of the set; dispose of or recycle the coin battery following local hazardous-waste guidance.

Product

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is warning consumers to stop using Jolnyus LED flameless candle sets immediately due to a coin-battery ingestion hazard. The LED candles were sold in sets of two in ivory, and the packaging is marked volnyus, according to the notice.

The hazard

CPSC said the lithium coin battery in the remote control can be accessed easily by children, creating a serious ingestion hazard. The agency also said the candle sets and remote control do not include required warnings under Reeses Law. Swallowed button cell or coin batteries can cause severe internal chemical burns and death.

What to do

CPSC urges consumers to stop using the LED flameless candle sets immediately and dispose of them. Do not sell or give away these hazardous products. The coin battery in the remote controls should be disposed of or recycled in accordance with local hazardous-waste procedures.

Company contact

CPSC asks consumers to report any incidents involving injury or product defect at www.SaferProducts.gov.

Source


Magnetic stick figure toys pose ingestion hazard

The CPSC is warning consumers to stop using TOP MAGNETS Magnetic Men sets because detachable high-powered magnets can be swallowed and cause severe internal injuries.

  • Specific hazard: Detachable magnets are stronger than permitted and small enough to be swallowed, risking intestinal perforation and death.
  • Scope/stats: Sets of 12 flexible stick figures sold online at Amazon.com from June 2024 through October 2025 for about $9, and possibly by third-party sellers elsewhere.
  • Immediate action: Stop using the toys immediately and dispose of them; do not resell or give them away.

Product

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is warning consumers to stop using TOP MAGNETS Magnetic Men stick figure toy sets immediately. The sets include 12 flexible silicone stick figures in various colors, each with four small magnets in the hands and feet.

The hazard

CPSC said the figures arms and legs with magnets can detach when pulled. The toy sets contain stronger-than-permitted magnets that fit within CPSCs small parts cylinder and violate mandatory toy safety standards. If high-powered magnets are swallowed, they can attract inside the body, causing intestinal perforations, twisting, blockage, blood poisoning, and death.

What to do

CPSC urges consumers to stop using the magnetic stick figure toy sets immediately and dispose of them. Do not sell or give away these hazardous magnetic toy sets. If you suspect a magnet has been swallowed, seek emergency medical care immediately.

Company contact

CPSC asks consumers to report any incidents involving injury or product defect at www.SaferProducts.gov.

Source


Miss Vickies chips alert for undeclared milk

Frito-Lay issued a voluntary allergy alert for certain Miss Vickies Spicy Dill Pickle Potato Chips because the product may contain undeclared milk.

  • Specific hazard: Undeclared milk allergen can trigger serious or life-threatening allergic reactions in sensitive consumers.
  • Scope/stats: Affected product distributed in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas; identified by UPC 0 28400 761772 and a Guaranteed Fresh date of 21 APR 2026 (manufacturing codes 38U3014144, 8U101514).
  • Immediate action: Do not eat the chips if you have a milk allergy; discard the product and contact the company for assistance.

Product

Frito-Lay is alerting consumers to a voluntary allergy issue involving Miss Vickies Spicy Dill Pickle Potato Chips due to undeclared milk. The FDA notice says people with an allergy or severe sensitivity to milk could face a serious or life-threatening reaction if they eat the product.

The hazard

Milk is a major food allergen, and undeclared milk in packaged foods can cause reactions ranging from hives and swelling to anaphylaxis in highly sensitive individuals. The notice specifically warns that those with a milk allergy or severe sensitivity are at risk if they consume the affected chips.

What to do

Consumers with a milk allergy or sensitivity should not consume the product. Discard the chips immediately and contact Frito-Lay through the Miss Vickies Contact Us page or by phone for next steps.

Company contact

Call 1-877-984-2543.

Source


Rhino Choco VIP 10X recalled for drug ingredient

USA LESS Co. is recalling Rhino Choco VIP 10X because it contains undeclared tadalafil, which can dangerously interact with certain prescription medications.

  • Specific hazard: Undeclared tadalafil may interact with nitrates (such as nitroglycerin) and lower blood pressure to dangerous levels.
  • Scope/stats: Product sold in retail stores and through online sites; identified by UPC 724087947668 and expiration date 10/2027.
  • Immediate action: Stop using the product and return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.

Product

USA LESS Co. is recalling Rhino Choco VIP 10X after testing found an undeclared drug ingredient, tadalafil. The FDA warning notes the ingredient can create serious health risks, especially for consumers taking nitrate medications often prescribed for heart-related conditions.

The hazard

Tadalafil can interact with nitrates found in some prescription drugs, including nitroglycerin, and may cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure. The FDA also notes that people with diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or heart disease often take nitrates, which increases the risk of a harmful interaction if they use the recalled product.

What to do

Consumers should stop using Rhino Choco VIP 10X. Those who purchased the product from usaless.com are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. If you have health concerns or think you experienced an adverse reaction, contact a health care provider.

Company contact

Call 1-800-872-5377 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Source


Savannah Bee sauce recalled for undeclared allergens

Savannah Bee Company is recalling Honey BBQ Sauce-Mustard because it may contain undeclared wheat and soy, posing a serious allergy risk.

  • Specific hazard: Undeclared wheat and soy can trigger serious or life-threatening allergic reactions.
  • Scope/stats: Distributed nationwide to distribution centers, retail stores, and consumers; identified by batch code B1L1360525, Best Before 05/16/27, UPC 8 50033 93758 9.
  • Immediate action: Do not consume the product if you have wheat or soy allergies; dispose of it and request a refund.

Product

Savannah Bee Company is recalling its Honey BBQ Sauce-Mustard because the product contains undeclared wheat and soy. The FDA notice warns that consumers with wheat or soy allergies or severe sensitivities could face serious or life-threatening reactions if they eat the sauce.

The hazard

Wheat and soy are common allergens, and undeclared ingredients can cause reactions that range from mild symptoms to anaphylaxis. The recall is aimed at preventing exposure for consumers who rely on ingredient labels to avoid these allergens.

What to do

Consumers who have purchased the recalled Honey BBQ Sauce-Mustard should not consume it if they have a wheat or soy allergy or sensitivity. Dispose of the product and request a full refund, using the identifying codes on the label to confirm it matches the recalled batch.

Company contact

Customer Service at 800-955-5080.

Source


Ajinomoto expands recall after possible glass contamination

Ajinomoto Foods North America expanded a nationwide recall of chicken and pork fried rice, ramen, and shu mai products due to possible glass contamination linked to a vegetable ingredient.

  • Specific hazard: Possible foreign matter contamination (glass) that could cause mouth injuries or internal harm if consumed.
  • Scope/stats: Products with establishment numbers P-18356, P-18356B, or P-47971 produced Oct. 21, 2024, to Feb. 26, 2026, with best-by dates Feb. 28, 2026, through Aug. 19, 2027; sold nationwide and exported to Canada and Mexico.
  • Immediate action: Do not eat the affected products; throw them away or return them to the place of purchase.

Ajinomoto Foods North America, Inc. has expanded a recall covering chicken and pork fried rice, ramen, and shu mai products due to possible foreign matter contamination, specifically glass. FSIS said the establishment determined that a vegetable source ingredient, carrots, was the likely source of the contamination.

The hazard

Foreign matter such as glass in prepared foods can cause injuries to the mouth, throat, and digestive tract, and may require medical treatment if swallowed. FSIS categorized the event as Class I (high or medium risk), reflecting the potential severity of harm if contaminated product is consumed.

What to do

Consumers should check their freezers for the affected products and confirm establishment numbers and date ranges. FSIS urges consumers not to consume the recalled items; instead, throw them away or return them to the place of purchase. If you believe you were injured after eating the product, seek medical attention.

Company contact

Consumer Affairs, Ajinomoto Foods North America, at (855) 742-5011 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Source


Beef jerky alert for undeclared soy allergen

FSIS issued a public health alert for certain ready-to-eat beef jerky products due to misbranding and a possible undeclared soy lecithin allergen.

  • Specific hazard: Products may contain soy lecithin (a known allergen) that is not declared on the label.
  • Scope/stats: Punahele Jerky Company products with establishment number EST. 2625 and best-by dates Feb. 17, 2027 or prior; distributed to retail stores in Hawaii and sold online nationwide.
  • Immediate action: Do not eat the products if you have a soy allergy; throw them away or return them to the place of purchase.

FSIS issued a public health alert for ready-to-eat beef jerky products from Punahele Jerky Company, Inc., including Dried Hawaiian Style Beef Crisps (Original Salt & Pepper), Uncle K's Beef Crisps, and Kilauea Fire Spicy Beef Crisps. The alert cites misbranding because the products may contain soy lecithin that is not listed on the label.

The hazard

Soy is a major food allergen, and undeclared soy ingredients can cause allergic reactions that may become severe or life-threatening in sensitive individuals. FSIS said there have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions related to consumption of these products, but the agency issued the alert to warn consumers who may still have the items.

What to do

Consumers should not consume the affected ready-to-eat beef jerky products, particularly anyone with a soy allergy or sensitivity. FSIS recommends throwing the products away or returning them to the place of purchase. If you believe you had an allergic reaction, seek medical attention and report the issue to appropriate authorities.

Company contact

Sabrina Vaughn, Food Safety and QA Compliance Officer, at 808-961-0877; or contact the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 888-674-6854.

Source





Posted: 2026-03-06 18:04:56

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Consumer News: Beauty budgets are getting a reality check — but self-care still comes first
Tue, 21 Apr 2026 22:07:06 +0000

New data shows Americans are cutting back elsewhere, not on wellness and what that shift means for your routine (and your wallet)

By Kristen Dalli of ConsumerAffairs
April 21, 2026

  • Self-care isnt optional anymore: Many Americans are prioritizing beauty and wellness routines even if it means cutting back on essentials like groceries or delaying other expenses.

  • Spending habits are shifting, not disappearing: Instead of giving up treatments, consumers are spacing out appointments, choosing more affordable options, and turning to DIY alternatives.

  • Its about more than looks: For a growing number of people, beauty and wellness are tied to stress relief, confidence, and overall well-being making them feel worth the cost, even in a tight economy.


For many Americans, beauty and wellness routines are no longer a nice-to-have theyre part of how people cope, stay confident, and manage everyday stress. Even as costs rise and financial pressure builds, consumers arent walking away from self-care. Instead, theyre reshuffling their budgets to make it work.

New data from Zenoti reveals just how far people are willing to go: some are cutting back on groceries, delaying vacations, or even taking on debt to keep up with their routines.

But the bigger trend isnt about overspending its about adaptation. From spacing out appointments to opting for DIY treatments at home, consumers are finding ways to maintain their routines without completely breaking the bank.

ConsumerAffairs spoke with Sudheer Koneru, CEO and Co-founder, at Zenoti to learn more about how this trend is reshaping not just how people spend, but how the entire beauty and wellness industry operates signaling a future where flexibility, affordability, and personalization matter more than ever.

Making sacrifices for a beauty routine

Koneru broke down some of the biggest data points that surprised even the research team. Heres a look at where consumers are making sacrifices for their beauty routines:

  • 22% of respondents scaled back on groceries

  • 21% delayed medical or dental care

  • 28% said theyd cut beauty spending before making major life expenses like home repairs, skipping savings contributions, and putting off vehicle maintenance for the same reason.

That's not reckless behavior, Koneru said. That's a signal. When people protect something this fiercely, it means it's doing something essential for them managing stress, restoring confidence, maintaining a sense of self during uncertain times.

Beauty and wellness have always been about feeling good. Our data just confirms that people know it, even when their budgets don't make it easy.

Impacting credit

Koneru also explained that these trends are affecting how shoppers are using their credit.

Our research found that 41% of consumers used credit cards for beauty and wellness in the past year, and nearly half said they'd be willing to take on debt to maintain their routines if they lost their primary income, Koneru said. That's not impulse spending. That's a considered decision; the same kind people make about rent or health care, and points to a mindset shift where these services are seen as ongoing commitments vs. the occasional treat yourself splurge.

Can you save money?

The short answer: yes.

Zenotis research shows that many consumers (45%) are spacing out their appointments further in an effort to stretch their budgets. Additionally, about 33% are opting for more affordable treatments or options instead of ditching them entirely. Another option: DIY beauty treatments.

Koneru said that there are plenty of ways for consumers to maintain their beauty routines while also being cost-effective.

  • Switching from impulse buying to intentional spending

  • Switching to more affordable product alternatives going from premium to drugstore brands

  • Subscription boxes and at-home tools

The smartest savings often come from better guidance, not just cheaper products, Koneru said. We've seen that consumers who work closely with their provider and use the right retail products to extend the benefits of their services at home actually spend less over time. They stop cycling through products that don't work and start investing in what does. That's a conversation providers should be having at every appointment.

Feeling good isnt a luxury

Koneru says that these findings express something deeper about human perception: feeling good isn't a luxury.

More than three in five people told us that cutting back on beauty and wellness would make them more stressed, less confident, or worse off emotionally, Koneru said. That's not a small thing; it's infrastructure for daily life.

Consumers are now behaving more like long-term planners, adjusting their frequency and spending, but staying committed to maintaining these routines. The broader takeaway for me is that in uncertain times, people don't give up the things that make them feel like themselves. They find creative ways to hold onto them.


Read More ...


Consumer News: Home insurance costs are climbing — and first-time buyers are feeling the squeeze
Tue, 21 Apr 2026 22:07:06 +0000

New data shows rising premiums are putting pressure on budgets

By Kristen Dalli of ConsumerAffairs
April 21, 2026
  • Home insurance is getting more expensive: The average premium is now nearly $3,000 a year and much higher in high-risk states adding new pressure to already tight home-buying budgets.
  • First-time buyers are feeling it most: Nearly half say theyd struggle to afford their mortgage if insurance costs rise, and the typical first-time buyer is now 40 years old.

  • There are ways to manage costs: Shopping around, adjusting coverage, and investing in home upgrades can help but experts say its important not to sacrifice essential protection just to save money.


Buying a home has never been cheap but for many Americans, the real sticker shock is hitting after they get the keys. Homeowners insurance premiums are on the rise nationwide, adding a growing layer of financial stress for both new and longtime homeowners.

According to new data from The Zebras 2026 State of Insurance report, the average homeowner now pays nearly $3,000 a year for coverage and in some states, its dramatically higher. Thats making it harder for first-time buyers to enter the market and even harder to stay afloat once they do. In fact, nearly half say theyd struggle to afford their mortgage if insurance costs go up.

ConsumerAffairs spoke with David Seider, chief commercial officer at The Zebra, to learn how extreme weather risks, rebuilding costs, and market shifts continue to drive prices higher.

The factors driving premiums up

Seider explained that there are a combination of factors at play that increase homeowners insurance premiums:

  • An increased risk of natural disasters

  • Larger economic factors like tariffs and inflation driving up construction costs

  • Less competition due to insurers leaving more high-risk insurance markets

Each state has their own unique challenges, though, Seider said. With Florida as an example, the state has an increased vulnerability to hurricanes and tropical storms and each large-scale event can cause billions of dollars in claims. This forces insurers to have reinsurance policies (essentially insurance policies for insurance companies) to limit their own risk. The cost of reinsurance policies has skyrocketed in recent years and those costs get passed down to homeowners.

The impact on first-time homebuyers

The report found that the median age of first-time homebuyers is reaching 40, and increasing insurance premiums is impacting that.

First-time buyers should know they still have options when rising insurance costs put pressure on their monthly mortgage payment, Seider said. It is worth shopping around for coverage, even when insurance is paid through escrow, because homeowners can still usually choose their insurer and update the mortgage servicer if they switch. Buyers should compare coverage details, deductibles, and exclusions, not just price, since the cheapest policy is not always the best value.

Some other tips include:

  • Use an independent agent, broker, or comparison platform to review several quotes at once.

  • Keep an open mind about smaller or regional insurers that may better understand local risks.

  • Ask about available discounts and look into grants or mitigation programs that could help pay for upgrades that make the home more resilient.

  • Budget for the full cost of homeownership, including taxes, insurance, and upkeep, rather than focusing only on the base mortgage payment.

Managing the costs

Seider said that some homeowners are adjusting their insurance to try to keep monthly mortgage payments more manageable especially when premiums are paid through escrow.

He explained that raising deductibles to lower premiums is a common strategy. However, that also means taking on more out-of-pocket risk after a claim.

Here are some tips from Seider on how to manage the costs:

  • Shop around, bundle policies, or scale back coverage to cut costs (even though those options do not always produce major savings and can leave people more exposed financially).

  • Make home upgrades that may help reduce premiums over time (such as adding a FORTIFIED roof, improving fire mitigation, or investing in other resilience upgrades).

  • Stay on top of general home maintenance. Routine upkeep matters, especially as insurers pay closer attention to roof condition, plumbing, electrical systems, and other signs of risk. Keeping the home in good shape can help prevent losses and may also make it easier to keep coverage affordable over time.

  • Understand what your policy does and does not cover. A lower premium is not always a better deal if it comes with important coverage gaps. First-time buyers should make sure they understand exclusions and whether they may need separate coverage for risks like flood damage, depending on where they live.

  • Be thoughtful about filing smaller claims. Homeowners should talk to their insurer or agent before filing a minor claim, since frequent small claims can sometimes lead to higher premiums or make coverage harder to find later. Insurance is often most valuable for larger losses, not every repair.


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Consumer News: The bank withdrawal scam that’s costing elderly victims thousands
Tue, 21 Apr 2026 19:07:06 +0000

The urgent 'bank call' thats draining accounts

By Kyle James of ConsumerAffairs
April 21, 2026
  • Scammers pose as trusted bank officials and pressure victims to withdraw cash and send it through untraceable methods like Bitcoin.

  • They create urgency and coach victims, making it hard for banks to intervene even when it looks suspicious.

  • Protect yourself by slowing down, verifying calls directly with your bank, and never moving money based on someone elses instructions.


The scam often starts with a phone call. A scammer pretends to be from your banks fraud department and claims theres suspicious activity on your account. Then they create fake urgency and tell you not to talk to anyone else about it, including bank employees.

The InvestigationsTeam at CBS-13 in Portland, Maine, recently did a fantastic report on this scam. They reported that victims are instructed to go to their bank, withdraw large amounts of cash, and move the money. Theyll often insist on you depositing it into a Bitcoin ATM, or sending it in ways that are nearly impossible to trace.

In some cases, victims have withdrawn $20,000 or more without being stopped.

Whos behind these ?

The people running these are often part of a larger organized fraud operation.

But what really matters isnt who they are, its more about how they present themselves.

Scammers are trained to sound convincing. They often pose as:

  • Your banks fraud department
  • Law enforcement or government agencies
  • Tech support or financial security teams

Why this scam is so effective

This scam works so well because it flips your instincts against you.

  • You think youre simply protecting your account.
  • Youre told to act quickly, which causes confusion.
  • Youre discouraged from asking questions.

Scammers often coach elderly victims on exactly what to say if a bank employee asks about the withdrawal, making it harder for staff to step in.

And because the transaction is technically authorized by you, banks have limited ability to stop it if you insist everything is fine.

Many banks are stepping in to help

The state of Maine introduced legislation in 2025 that allows banks to delay certain transactions made by elderly customers if they suspect they might be part of a scam.

Its a step in the right direction as many financial institutions in the past didnt prevent, or question, a customer from withdrawing large amounts of cash.

Its a fine line between respecting the customers privacy, but still trying to protect them from a scam. Now, many banks are training tellers to spot red flags and build trust with customers, so they can have a private conversation when they feel it might be warranted.

How to protect yourself (and stop this before it starts)

This scam is very preventable, but only if you slow down and take control of the situation.

1. Break the urgency immediately. If someone is pressuring you to act fast, thats your first red flag. Pause. Even waiting 1015 minutes can help you think clearly and break their control.

2. Hang up and verify independently. Never trust a phone call, even if the caller ID looks like its from your bank. Call your bank directly using the number on your debit card or their official website. Do NOT call back the number that contacted you.

3. Be completely honest with your bank. If you go into a branch and something feels off, tell the teller exactly whats happening. If you simply repeat what a scammer told you to say, it limits their ability to intervene.

4. Never move money based on instructions from a caller. This is the biggest rule. No legitimate bank, government agency, or company will ever ask you to:

  • Withdraw large amounts of cash
  • Deposit money into a Bitcoin ATM
  • Buy gift cards to secure your account

If youre asked to do any of these, its 100% a scam.

5. Use built-in protections from your bank.Many banks now offer extra safeguards:

  • Set up a trusted contact who can be alerted if something looks suspicious.
  • Enable transaction alerts for large withdrawals.
  • Ask about fraud flags or temporary holds on unusual activity.

These tools create an extra layer of protection when you might not catch it yourself.


Read More ...


Consumer News: Red Lobster revives ‘Endless Shrimp’ promotion in cautious comeback
Tue, 21 Apr 2026 16:07:07 +0000

Some analysts say the previous promotion turned out to be costly

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs
April 21, 2026
  • Red Lobster is bringing back its popular Endless Shrimp promotion for a limited time starting April 20, after strong customer demand.

  • The revived deal includes five shrimp dishes four classics plus a new Marry Me Shrimp option and is available for dine-in only.

  • The return comes after the promotion previously contributed to major financial losses and the chains 2024 bankruptcy, prompting a more limited, controlled rollout.


Its baaaack!

Red Lobster is once again offering its signature Endless Shrimp promotion, bringing back the fan-favorite deal for a limited time beginning this week as part of its broader turnaround strategy.

The seafood chain said the promotions return follows sustained demand from customers who have continued to ask for the offering, which has been a staple of the brand for more than two decades.

The promotion was discontinued after the chains 2024 bankruptcy, when some business analysts partly blamed the promotion for the restaurants financial problems.

This latest version features five shrimp options, including longtime menu items such as Garlic Shrimp Scampi, Walts Favorite Shrimp, Shrimp Linguine Alfredo, and Parrot Isle Coconut Shrimp, along with a new addition called Marry Me Shrimp, described as shrimp in a tomato cream sauce with a garlic-and-herb topping.

More cautious approach

Unlike previous iterations, the deal is being offered for a limited time and is restricted to dine-in customers only, reflecting a more cautious approach by the company, as it works to balance popularity with profitability.

The promotions return is notable given its role in Red Lobsters recent financial troubles. When Endless Shrimp was made a permanent menu item in 2023, the company underestimated demand and incurred heavy costs, reportedly losing about $11 million in a single quarter.

That misstep may have contributed to Red Lobsters Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in 2024 and the closure of numerous locations.

Under CEO Damola Adamolekun, the company is now attempting a more disciplined revival of the promotion, positioning it as a limited-time offering designed to drive traffic without repeating past mistakes.

Executives say the move reflects a broader effort to reconnect with customers while stabilizing operations after restructuring. By reintroducing Endless Shrimp in a controlled format, Red Lobster said it is trying to capitalize on nostalgia and demand, while avoiding the financial strain that previously accompanied the deal.


Read More ...


Consumer News: Another airline close call over the weekend
Tue, 21 Apr 2026 16:07:07 +0000

Two Southwest jets came within 500 feet of each other over Nashville

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs
April 21, 2026
  • Two Southwest Airlines jets came within about 500 feet of each other over Nashville, forcing pilots to take evasive action after a controllers instruction put them on converging paths.

  • Both crews received automated collision warnings, with one aircraft climbing and the other descending to avoid disaster.

  • The incident is the latest in a string of near-misses and aviation safety scares that have heightened scrutiny of U.S. air traffic control.


A routine weekend over Nashville turned tense in seconds.

Two Southwest Airlines jets one climbing out after takeoff, the other circling for a second landing attempt found themselves converging in the same patch of sky. According to early reports, an air traffic controller had inadvertently directed one aircraft into the flight path of the other. What followed was a textbook demonstration of why modern aviation relies heavily on onboard safety systems.

Cockpit alarms blared. The Traffic Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) issued split-second instructions: one plane climb, the other descend. Pilots reacted immediately. Data later suggested the aircraft passed within roughly 500 feet close enough to qualify as a near midair collision, but far enough to avoid catastrophe.

Passengers likely never grasped just how narrow the margin was. But for aviation regulators, the episode adds to a troubling pattern.

A pattern of close calls

In isolation, the Nashville incident might be dismissed as a rare lapse. But recent months tell a different story.

In July 2025, a Southwest flight departing Burbank made a sudden, dramatic plunge to avoid another aircraft. The maneuver injured two flight attendants and left passengers describing the moment as a free fall, underscoring how violently evasive actions can unfold even when disaster is avoided.

Earlier that year, a Southwest jet approaching Chicago Midway was forced into a last-second go-around when a private jet crossed the runway without authorization, another case where quick pilot response prevented a collision.

And the list goes on: runway incursions, aborted takeoffs, and near misses at major airports have become frequent enough to prompt federal safety summits and renewed calls for better technology and staffing in control towers.

Safety systems and human limits

Aviation experts point out that commercial flying remains extraordinarily safe, in part because of layered safeguards like TCAS. In Nashville, those systems worked exactly as designed, turning a potentially catastrophic error into a close call.

But the underlying issue human error in an increasingly complex airspace remains unresolved. Controllers are managing dense traffic with aging infrastructure, while airlines operate at near-record volumes.

Late last week, the Federal Aviation Administration took proactive action, announcing it would reduce the number of flights in and out of Chicago OHare Airport over the summer, when air travel is expected to surge. The agency said it acted to promote safety and reduce the number of delayed flights.


Read More ...


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