Sunbeam Heating Pad Recall: What You Need to Know

If you own a Sunbeam electric blanket purchased between late 2022 and early 2023, you may be sitting on a serious fire hazard. While most people search for a “Sunbeam heating pad recall,” the actual recall involves queen-sized Sunbeam electric blankets, including the popular Ultralush model sold at Costco. These defective units can overheat unexpectedly, even when turned off, creating risks of fire and burns. With 13 overheating incidents already confirmed, taking action now could prevent a dangerous situation in your home.

This guide covers everything you need to know about the Sunbeam heating pad recall, including which model numbers are affected, how to get your refund, and what safety steps to take immediately. Whether you bought your blanket on Amazon or received a Costco Ultralush as a gift, the steps below will walk you through the process.

Confirm Whether Your Blanket Is Part of the Recall

Before doing anything else, you need to verify that your specific blanket matches a recalled model. Appearance alone cannot confirm eligibility, so checking the wash label is essential.

Check for Model Number 32810027

If you purchased a queen-sized Sunbeam electric blanket from Amazon or a small online retailer, locate the wash label sewn into the blanket. Look for model number 32810027. This is the only model included in the general recall affecting approximately 43,000 units sold between September 2022 and January 2023. Every unit with this model number is considered defective, regardless of whether it has shown any problems.

Identify Costco Ultralush Models by Item Number

If you bought a Sunbeam Ultralush Queen Heated Blanket from Costco.ca, your blanket may fall under a separate recall managed by Star Elite, Inc. The affected models include:

• Item 9931015 (Charcoal) – Model 11778
• Item 9931016 (Stone Grey) – Model 11779
• Item 9931017 (Blue Sea) – Model 11780
• Item 9931018 (Shell) – Model 11781

These were sold from September 2022 through February 2023. Even if your blanket looks and works fine, stop using it immediately if it matches any of these identifiers.

Locate the Wash Label Properly

The wash label is typically sewn into a corner of the blanket and displays the Sunbeam logo along with the model number. Use a flashlight if the label is in a hard-to-read spot. If the label is missing, damaged, or illegible, treat the blanket as potentially unsafe and discontinue use. Never attempt to repair or modify a recalled heating product.

Understand the Overheating Hazard

The defect in these Sunbeam blankets causes internal failures that lead to dangerous temperature spikes, sometimes even when the controls are set low or switched off.

Fire and Burn Risks Explained

Overheating creates two primary dangers. First, the blanket can smolder or ignite, setting fire to bedding, furniture, or nearby flammable materials. Second, surface temperatures can climb high enough to cause serious skin burns on contact. These risks increase when the blanket is left plugged in unattended or used beneath heavy comforters. While no injuries have been reported, 13 confirmed overheating events demonstrate that this defect is real and active.

Warning Signs Your Blanket May Be Malfunctioning

Pay close attention to these red flags:

• Sections of the blanket feeling noticeably hotter than other areas
• A burning or unusual smell during use
• Visible bubbling, melting, or discoloration on the fabric or controller
• The blanket continuing to heat up after being turned off

If you notice any of these signs, unplug the unit immediately and begin the return or destruction process.

Stop Using Your Blanket Right Now

This step is not optional. If your blanket matches any recalled model, unplug it immediately and keep it disconnected until you complete the proper return or destruction steps.

Unplug and Store Safely

Disconnect the power cord from the wall outlet right away. Do not fold the blanket or store it near flammable items like curtains, paper, or cleaning supplies. Keep it out of reach of children and pets while you arrange for its return or disposal.

Never Leave a Recalled Blanket Plugged In

Even if you plan to return the blanket later, never plug it back in, not even briefly. The defect can trigger overheating at any moment, creating a fire risk while you sleep or leave the house. Treat every recalled unit as an active hazard until it is returned or destroyed.

Alert Anyone Who Received One as a Gift

If you gave one of these blankets as a gift, contact the recipient immediately. The recall notice specifically asks current owners to pass along the warning. Many gift recipients may still be using these blankets without knowing they are dangerous.

Return Costco Ultralush Blankets for a Full Refund

If you own a Costco-exclusive Ultralush model, the return process is straightforward and does not require you to destroy the product.

Bring the Blanket to Any Costco Warehouse

Take the blanket, unplugged and intact, to any Costco location in the United States or Canada. Present it at the customer service desk for a full refund. No receipt is required. This is the fastest and most reliable way to get your money back. Costco first issued “Stop Use” notices on February 9, 2023, followed by a formal recall notice on March 16, 2023.

No Need to Cut the Cord or Mark the Label

Unlike the general recall, Costco buyers do not need to physically destroy the blanket. Simply return it as-is. This policy applies only to blankets purchased from Costco.ca with the item numbers listed above.

Contact Star Elite, Inc. If You Cannot Visit a Warehouse

If traveling to a Costco warehouse is not possible, call Star Elite, Inc. at 1-877-383-6399 between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. They may be able to arrange a mail-in option, though in-store returns remain the preferred method.

Destroy General Recall Blankets to Qualify for a Refund

If your blanket has model number 32810027 and was purchased from Amazon or another online retailer, you must complete a specific destruction process before receiving a refund.

Cut the Power Cord Near the Plug

Using scissors or wire cutters, cut the power cord close to the plug end. This step ensures the blanket cannot accidentally be used again. Simply unplugging the unit is not enough; physical destruction is required.

Mark the Wash Label with a Clear “X”

Find the wash label on the blanket and draw a visible “X” across it using a permanent marker. This shows that you have identified and disabled the correct unit.

Take a Photo Showing All Required Elements

Snap a clear photograph that includes:

• The cut power cord
• The “X” marked on the wash label
• The Sunbeam logo and model number (32810027)

Blur out any personal information that may be visible. This photo serves as your proof of compliance.

Submit Your Photo Online for a Refund

Visit Sunbeam’s official recall website at www.sunbeamhome.com and complete the online registration form. Upload your destruction photo for verification. Once approved, you will receive a full refund. Do not return the blanket to Amazon or the original seller; this process is managed directly through Sunbeam.

Contact the Right Support Team for Help

If you have questions or run into issues during the recall process, use the contact information below based on where you purchased your blanket.

Costco Buyers Should Call Star Elite, Inc.

• Phone: 1-877-383-6399
• Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday
• Website: www.sunbeamhome.com

This number handles all Ultralush recall inquiries. Have your Costco item number or model number ready when you call.

General Retail Buyers Should Use the Online Form

Sunbeam does not provide a dedicated phone line for the general recall. All support is handled through the online submission form on the Sunbeam recall website. Make sure your uploaded photo is clear and contains all required elements to avoid processing delays.

Review the Recall Timeline

Understanding when these products were sold and when the recall was announced can help confirm whether your blanket is affected.

Sales Windows by Retailer

• Amazon and Independent Retailers: September 2022 through January 2023
• Costco.ca: September 2022 through February 2023

Blankets purchased outside these date ranges are not part of the current recall. However, if you bought a secondhand blanket or received one as a gift, the original sale date still determines eligibility.

Important Recall Dates to Know

• February 9, 2023: First “Stop Use” notice issued to Costco members
• March 16, 2023: Official recall notice published
• September 10, 2025: Recall document reissued as Version 2.0 for long-term tracking

Even years after purchase, affected units remain hazardous and are still eligible for refunds.

Protect Yourself from Future Heating Product Risks

Once you have returned or destroyed your recalled blanket, take these steps to reduce the risk of similar problems with future purchases.

Choose Certified Heating Products Only

Look for safety certifications from recognized testing organizations:

• UL (Underwriters Laboratories)
• ETL (Intertek)
• CSA (Canadian Standards Association)

These certifications indicate the product has passed rigorous electrical and thermal safety tests.

Inspect New Electric Blankets Regularly

Check your heating products periodically for:

• Frayed wires or damaged control units
• Uneven heating across the surface
• Unusual smells during operation

Stop using any blanket at the first sign of trouble.

Avoid Buying Recalled Models from Secondhand Sources

Many recalled electric blankets still appear on online marketplaces and secondhand listings. Never purchase a used electric blanket unless you can verify the model number and confirm it is not part of an active recall.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Sunbeam Heating Pad Recall

Is there actually a recall on Sunbeam heating pads?

The recall technically covers Sunbeam queen-sized electric blankets, not traditional heating pads. However, many people search for “Sunbeam heating pad recall” when looking for information about these products. The affected items include model 32810027 sold online and the Ultralush models sold at Costco.

How do I know if my Sunbeam blanket is recalled?

Check the wash label sewn into your blanket for the model number. If you see 32810027, your blanket is part of the general recall. If you bought a Costco Ultralush blanket, match your item number (9931015 through 9931018) to the affected models listed in this guide.

Do I have to destroy my blanket to get a refund?

Only blankets with model number 32810027 require physical destruction. You must cut the power cord, mark the wash label with an “X,” and submit a photo for verification. Costco Ultralush blankets can be returned intact to any Costco warehouse for a full refund.

How many incidents have been reported?

There have been 13 confirmed incidents of overheating across the recalled products. No injuries have been reported as of the latest recall updates, but the fire and burn risks remain serious.

Can I still get a refund if I lost my receipt?

Yes. Costco does not require a receipt for returns of recalled products. For the general recall, the online registration process focuses on verifying the destruction photo rather than proof of purchase.

Key Takeaways for Handling the Sunbeam Heating Pad Recall

The Sunbeam heating pad recall actually involves electric blankets, not heating pads, but the safety risks are very real. If your queen-sized Sunbeam blanket has model number 32810027 or matches one of the Costco Ultralush item numbers, stop using it immediately. Amazon buyers must destroy the blanket and submit a photo through Sunbeam’s recall website. Costco buyers can return the blanket intact to any warehouse for a full refund.

With 13 overheating incidents already on record, acting quickly is the best way to protect your home and family. Check your wash label today, unplug the unit if it matches a recalled model, and follow the appropriate return path based on where you made your purchase.