Exploding jars prompt recall of 516,000 aromatherapy kits

Parents who bought their kids aromatherapy kits to make so-called "bath bombs" likely never imagined that the jars of oils would actually explode. But that's what happened at least 88 times with some of the 516,000 Spa Factory Aromatherapy Fountain & Bath Benefits Kits recalled today. The explosions resulted in 13 injuries. The injuries to children aged 6 to 11 years old include three cases of irritated eyes, two eye injuries from flying caps, a cheek welt and a cheek cut. Injuries to adults include four reports of bruising, one swollen joint, and one face gash.

Sold as a toy by JAKKS Pacific, the aromatherapy kits were intended to be used to make "Bath Bombs/Balls and Bath Fizzies." But according to the recall notice issued by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, pressure from the buildup of carbon dioxide in the jars can cause the caps to blow off, posing explosion and projectile hazards. The mixtures also can contain citric acid, which can get into the eyes during an explosion, posing a risk of eye irritation.

Five different kits are being recalled. They were sold at Sam’s Club, Wal-Mart, Target and toy stores nationwide from August 2008 through January 2009 for about $13 for the Bath Benefits Kit and between $30 and $50 for the Aromatherapy Fountain.

Wisely, the CPSC is telling parents to immediately take the toy’s jars and caps away from children and contact JAKKS for free replacement jar caps with vent holes by calling the company's toll-free number between 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. PT Monday through Friday or by visiting the firm’s Web site at www.myspafactory.com, or emailing the firm at caps@jakks.net.