Target is recalling approximately 49,000 Gigglescape Under the Sea Popping Toys after at least one child began to choke on small plastic balls that became accessible when a component of the toy broke apart.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) said in a July 2
notice that the clear plastic dome on the toy can detach from its blue plastic base—a whale-shaped bottom piece—releasing the colored balls contained inside. The agency said Target is aware of nine reports of the dome separating from the base, including the one choking incident.
The toy works by having a child push a plunger on top of the dome, causing the internal colored balls to pop upward. The recalled toys were manufactured in China, imported by Target of Minneapolis, Minnesota, and sold exclusively at Target stores nationwide from August 2025 through January 2026 for approximately $10.
The CPSC is urging consumers to immediately stop using the toy and return it to any Target retail location for a full refund. Those who prefer not to visit a store can contact Target to receive a prepaid return shipping label. Consumers can reach Target by calling 800-591-3869 toll-free between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. CT daily or by visiting Target.com and clicking "Recalls" at the bottom of the page. The recall is designated as number 26-598.
The Target recall is one of three children's toy safety recalls announced by federal regulators in recent weeks.
On June 25, the CPSC
announced a recall of about 1,013 Small Fish Montessori Busy Board Toys sold on Amazon.com, citing the risk of serious injury or death from magnet ingestion. The wooden activity boards contain magnets that can detach and be swallowed, and if multiple high-powered magnets are ingested, they can attract one another inside the digestive tract, potentially causing intestinal perforations, blockages, blood poisoning, and death. The boards sold for approximately $16 from March through May 2026. No injuries have been reported. Consumers should contact Small Fish at
[email protected] for refund instructions. The recall number is 26-579.
On June 18, the CPSC
announced a recall of roughly 2,200 Babeside Doll and Stroller toy sets sold through Amazon, citing violations of the federal small parts ban. The sets, intended for children under three, contain a small toy pacifier and a plush bear with detachable eyes—both posing choking hazards. The sets sold for approximately $40 from July 2025 through January 2026. No injuries have been reported. Consumers should remove both items from children's reach immediately and contact Hybdolls at
[email protected] for free replacement accessories. The recall number is 26-561.
