Safety warning Serious risk 3 February 2026

10g Water Ball Beads sold via eBay

Yes – there is an official safety warning for this
Affected
Multi-coloured water beads sold in a clear plastic bag.
The problem
The product presents a serious risk of asphyxiation because if the product is swallowed in its hydrated form, it can block a young child’s airway.
What to do
Owners are advised to stop using the product immediately and keep it out of the reach of children. Contact the distributor you purchased from to request redress.
Source: Office for Product Safety and Standards Official notice ↗

Product information

Type Decorative articles/Homeware/Gardenware – Ornament Accessories
eBay Item Number 221801205449
Country of Origin Unknown
Product Description Multi-coloured water beads sold in a clear plastic bag.
Product Report and Image Link to Product Image and PDF

Hazard

The product presents a serious risk of asphyxiation because if the product is swallowed in its hydrated form, it can block a young child’s airway. Improvements are also required to product labelling and marking.

OPSS has published a Product Safety Alert for water beads, which can be accessed at: https://www.gov.uk/product-safety-alerts-reports-recalls/product-safety-alert-water-beads-psa7.

The product does not meet the requirements of the General Product Safety Regulations 2005.

Corrective action

The product is no longer available for sale.

Owners are advised to stop using the product immediately and keep it out of the reach of children. Contact the distributor you purchased from to request redress.

Additional information

PSD notification number: 2510-0041

Notified by: Office of Product Safety and Standards

Can I get a refund?

In most cases, yes – recalled items can usually be returned for a full refund, repair or replacement, often without a receipt. Follow the instructions in the notice above, or contact the shop you bought it from. More on your rights after a recall.

Updated 3 February 2026. This page summarises an official notice. Details can change – always follow the official notice.

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