Samsung officially recalls millions of their washing machines

On Friday, over a month since the CPSC issued its warning, Samsung announced a recall of 2.8 million top-loading washing machines. According to the CPSC, this is the largest recall of a washing machine in history, by number of units and reported incidents.

“Before you do another load of laundry, contact Samsung and respond to this recall.  These top-loading washers present a risk of injury when used on a high speed spin cycle,” said CPSC Chairman Elliot Kaye in a statement to The Washington Post.

The recall effects 34 Samsung models sold between March 2011 and November 2016. The washers can be particularly dangerous when washing bedding, water-resistant fabrics and bulky items. Washers have been known to vibrate violently or burst apart.

Samsung has received 733 reports of washing machine malfunction, primarily due to “excessive vibration or the top detaching from the washing machine chassis.” Nine of these incidents resulted in injury, including a broken jaw, shoulder injury and other injuries resulting from impact of debris or a fall.

The CPSC recall notice includes a full list of affected models as well as remedy options provided by Samsung. Those with affected washers should contact Samsung right away to discuss these options, and to receive a “Home Label Kit” which will provide instructions for washing bulky items on delicate or waterproof cycles.