EU and Irish Consumer Watchdogs Take Action on Unsafe Baby Products
In a significant move to protect consumers, especially parents and caregivers, the European Union (EU) and Irish consumer watchdogs have taken decisive action against unsafe baby products available on online marketplaces. This effort involved a coordinated examination of 1,741 listings for baby products across various online platforms. As a result, 252 listings were removed due to non-compliance with safety and compliance standards.
This initiative follows the introduction of new product safety legislation in December 2024, which aims to enhance consumer protection and ensure that all products sold online meet strict safety requirements. The recent actions were part of a broader effort carried out in April and May 2025, during which takedown notices were issued to online marketplaces for listings that either lacked proper safety information or featured recalled products.
Focus on Safety and Compliance
The Ireland’s Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) played a central role in this operation. Its safety officers issued 72 of the 252 takedown orders, focusing on items such as baby carriers, slings, and walkers. These products are particularly important as they directly impact the safety and well-being of infants and young children.
Following the CCPC’s intervention, all 72 listings were successfully removed from major online marketplaces including Amazon, Shein, Etsy, eBay, Fruugo, and Joom. This demonstrates the effectiveness of collaboration between national and EU authorities in ensuring that unsafe products do not reach consumers.
Ensuring Transparency and Accountability
The CCPC’s efforts included checking listings for adherence to minimum product safety information rules. These rules require manufacturers to clearly display essential details, such as the manufacturer’s information and the EU responsible person. This level of transparency is crucial for safeguarding infants and children from hazardous or defective items.
Brian McHugh, chair of the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, highlighted the importance of safety in online purchases. He stated, “Many parents turn to online marketplaces for convenience when buying baby products, and they deserve to know that the item is safe.” He further emphasized that product safety officers issue recalls for tens of thousands of items every year, underscoring the critical need for traceability in product safety.
McHugh also pointed out that online marketplaces have a duty to be transparent about what they’re selling and provide contact details in the event a product is unsafe. “We’re pleased that the online marketplaces co-operated when we contacted them, and the listings were taken down promptly,” he said.
A Collaborative Effort for Consumer Protection
The success of this initiative highlights the importance of collaboration between national and EU authorities. The work of the CCPC’s officers, in partnership with colleagues across the EU, has prevented hundreds of potentially unsafe products from being offered for sale to Irish consumers.
This action serves as a reminder to both consumers and online sellers of the importance of adhering to product safety regulations. As more people turn to online shopping for convenience, it is vital that platforms and sellers prioritize the safety and well-being of their customers, particularly when it comes to products used by vulnerable groups such as infants and young children.
