For parents of infants, the pacifier clip—or “soother clip”—is a minor miracle. It prevents the “pacifier toss” that inevitably leads to a frantic search for a clean replacement while out in public. However, convenience should never come at the cost of safety. Recently, Primark issued a significant recall for one of its popular soother clip sets after reports surfaced of a manufacturing defect that transforms a helpful tool into a serious danger.
Key Information Parents Need Right Now
The recall involves approximately 1,330 units of the Primark “Little Bear” 2-pack Soother Clips. The primary concern is structural: the wooden button on the clip can detach, exposing a sharp metal screw. This creates a two-fold hazard for an infant—the small wooden piece poses a choking risk, while the exposed screw can cause lacerations or puncture wounds.
To date, Primark has received five specific reports of these wooden buttons failing. The details are sobering: in one instance, a screw was discovered inside a baby’s mouth, and in another, a child suffered cuts to their arm. Because these items are intended for use by very young children who explore the world with their mouths, the risk level is considered high. If you have this product, the most important step is to take it away from your child immediately.
How to Identify the Recalled Soother Clips
Identifying these clips is straightforward if you know what to look for. The recalled items are sold as a two-pack and feature the following characteristics:
- A fabric strap used to tether the pacifier.
- A distinct “Little Bear” motif printed on the strap.
- A wooden button used to secure the clip to the child’s clothing.
The most definitive way to confirm the recall is by checking the product code: 991139699. This number is located on the back of the original packaging, specifically on the price tag. If you have already discarded the packaging, the visual description of the “Little Bear” design and the wooden clip mechanism should be enough to warrant stopping use as a precaution.
Where and When It Was Sold
These soother clips were distributed through Primark stores in specific regions of the United States. Sales were concentrated in the Northeast, Florida, Maryland, and Illinois.
The clips were available on shelves from June 2025 through August 2025. They were an affordable accessory, typically retailing for around $5, which often makes them a popular “add-on” purchase for new parents or gift-givers.
Next Steps: Stop Using + Return for Refund
If your soother clips match the description or product code, Primark advises an immediate “stop use” policy. You should return the product to any Primark location. You do not need a receipt to receive a full refund, and the money will be returned via your original payment method.
For those who cannot make it to a store immediately or have additional questions, you can contact Primark’s customer service line at 617-946-3236 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. Detailed information is also available on their website by navigating to the “Recalls” section at the bottom of the homepage.
A Quick Reminder About Soother Clip Safety
As an expert in the parenting space, I always remind families that even non-recalled pacifier clips require routine safety checks. Babies can be surprisingly strong, and the constant tugging on a clip can weaken the materials over time.
To keep your little one safe, keep these best practices in mind:
- The Tug Test: Before clipping it on, give the clip a firm tug to ensure no parts are loose or wobbly.
- Sleep Safety: Never let a baby sleep with a pacifier clip. It is a strangulation risk and should only be used while the child is awake and supervised.
- Material Check: Look for one-piece construction where possible. Avoid clips with small beads, glued-on decorations, or rigid wooden components that could splinter or shatter if dropped.
- No “DIY” Extensions: Never lengthen a pacifier clip with ribbons or strings, as this increases the risk of entanglement.
Reporting Issues
When a product fails, the best way to protect other families is to report the incident. If you have experienced a break, a “near miss,” or an injury with this Primark clip—or any other baby gear—you can file a report with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). These reports are the primary way safety experts identify manufacturing trends and get dangerous products off the market quickly.
FAQ
How can I tell if mine is recalled?
Confirm the product code 991139699 on the packaging. Visually, the recalled clips feature a fabric “Little Bear” strap and a wooden button clip.
Is it okay to give it away or donate it?
Absolutely not. It is illegal and dangerous to sell or donate recalled products. The best course of action is to return it to the retailer so it can be properly disposed of and off the market for good.
What alternatives can I use?
Look for clips made of medical-grade silicone or high-quality braided fabric that use a one-piece plastic or metal clasp. These designs eliminate the risk of small decorative parts (like wooden buttons) detaching and exposing screws.
While product recalls can be alarming, they serve as a vital reminder to remain vigilant about the items we bring into our nurseries. Regularly inspecting your baby’s gear—even the simplest items like a pacifier clip—is one of the most effective ways to ensure their safety as they grow. Stay informed, stay cautious, and always prioritize “safety first” over convenience.
