Fake Labubu plush dolls, sometimes referred to as “Lafufu,” pose a serious risk of choking and death to young children, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, or CPSC, said in issuing an urgent warning to consumers.
The fakes, sold as plush dolls and small keychains, are small enough for a child to fit the doll in their mouth and block their airway.
The CPSC has also received reports of fake Labubu dolls that break apart easily, creating small pieces that can become choking hazards.
The agency is warning consumers not to buy these knockoff dolls and to stop using them immediately.
CPSC investigators have identified many shipments of these lookalikes attempting U.S. entry from China and requested seizure of thousands of the dolls after confirming violation of federal regulations for toys with small parts.
“These fake Labubu dolls are dangerous, illegal, and have no place in American homes,” CPSC Acting Chairman Peter A. Feldman said in a statement. “No parent should have to wonder if a toy will stop their child from breathing. Protect your children and buy only from reputable sellers.”
Federal law prohibits the importation and sale of consumer products that don’t meet CPSC safety standards.
The CPSC offers the following tips on how to spot fake Labubu dolls:
- Beware of bargains. Deep discounts can signal fake products.
- Look for authentic Pop Mart Labubu dolls. They have a holographic Pop Mart sticker, a scannable QR code linking to the official Pop Mart site, and, on newer editions, a UV stamp on one foot.
- Be aware fakes often have overly bright colors or the wrong number of teeth. Authentic dolls have nine teeth.
- Know your seller. Purchase only from trusted stores or online marketplaces.
- Check safety labeling. For toys with small parts, look for choking hazard warnings and independent safety certification marks.
Report any incidents involving injury or product defect to the CPSC at www.SaferProducts.gov.
