Weber has recalled more than 3.2 million grill brushes with metal wire brushes due to safety hazards, according to the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission. The massive recall is due to the metal brushes detaching from the product, leading to potential ingestion. Similar products are offered in the branded merchandise industry.

  • The recall involves a product that comes in various forms, including having plastic and wood handles.
  • Currently, the following model numbers are recalled:  6277, 6278, 6463, 6464, 6493 and 6494.

The issue behind the recall is considered serious, and consumers should cease use of the grill brushes immediately. Weber has reported at least 38 incidents of small bits of wire bristles detaching from the product, which leaves the consumer’s grill or food as likely destinations for that metal debris. Four of those reports include consumers who swallowed metal bristles and needed to receive medical treatment to remove the metal from their throat or digestive tract.

At least four of the incident included consumers who needed to receive medical treatment to remove metal bristles from their throat or digestive tract.”

Weber is issuing a safe, nylon alternative brush to consumers who participate in the recall.

Is This Product Category Safe?

A review of SAGE’s online database at the time of publishing suggests that no PPAI member companies sell the specific Weber product that is being recalled. It is, however, similar to products in the branded merchandise space. Anytime a recall in the millions takes place with a popular product category, distributors would be wise to pay close attention.

In fact, the sheer volume of the recall prompted acting chair of the CPSC, Peter Feldman, to issue a statement about the Weber grill brush. For the most part, Feldman’s statement is simply reiterating the recall itself and urging consumers to take proper precautions. Beyond that, there was one subtle, but potentially very significant line mentioned in regard to the branded merchandise industry.

The Commission is reviewing this product category more broadly.”

Peter Feldman

Acting Chair, U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

“CPSC appreciates its cooperative relationship with Weber, which agreed voluntarily to recall these defective brushes and do right by its customers,” Feldman said. “At the same time, the Commission is reviewing this product category more broadly.”

That second sentence is a point worth monitoring. While this recall may not affect branded merch distributors, there is a hint that similar products could be affected, which would have an impact on the promotional space.