Dangerous counterfeit Labubu toys inundate UK market, causing immediate concern
In the world of collectible toys, the Labubu doll has gained significant popularity, thanks in part to social media buzz [Kerry Nicol, CTSI]. However, this surge in demand has also led to an increase in counterfeit Labubu dolls flooding the market, posing potential safety risks for children.
Last week, thieves in the Los Angeles area made off with thousands of dollars worth of Labubu stock from a store, highlighting the value and demand for these collectibles [Unnamed source]. But it's not just the monetary value at stake; counterfeit Labubu dolls may contain toxic substances like lead, harmful dyes, or banned plasticisers, and they could also have small detachable parts, posing a choking hazard for young children [CTSI].
To ensure the safety of children and help consumers identify genuine Labubu dolls, here are some key authenticity checks and safety precautions:
- Packaging and QR Code: Genuine Labubu dolls come with a holographic Pop Mart sticker and a scannable QR code that links directly to Pop Mart’s official verification system. The QR code should be sharply printed and functional, not blurry or poorly printed.
- Identity Card and Labels: Each authentic Labubu includes an identity card in pastel tones with a clear, dark logo and a tag with distinct typography features (such as spacing between English words). Fake products often have rough or blurred fonts and missing or fake tags.
- Teeth Count and Appearance: Authentic Labubus have exactly nine pointed teeth of varying shapes spaced clearly along a blue line, a pale peach or peach-complexioned face with smooth matte finish, sharp paint lines, glossy eyes, and airbrushed blush. Counterfeits have the wrong number of teeth, poorly painted teeth, or different colored faces (reddish or overly bright).
- Material and Fur Quality: Genuine dolls have soft, fluffy fur with intricate stitching seamlessly attached to the vinyl, whereas fakes frequently show rough, cheap materials and low-quality fur.
- Additional Markings: Newer authentic Labubus also feature a subtle UV stamp on one foot visible under black light, while fake paints do not react under UV light.
- Footprint and Size: Authentic versions have clear footprint lines and correct fonts; fakes have rough lines. Also, fakes can differ in size, sometimes smaller than authentic dolls.
- Packaging Details: Authentic sets may include an official gift bag and embossed lettering on the box with a holographic QR code. Fakes often lack these.
- Purchase Precautions: Buy only from official Pop Mart websites, authorized retailers, or verified stores. Be cautious of deep discounts or sellers on social media platforms known for scams. Use secure payment methods offering fraud protection.
- Safety Considerations: Counterfeit dolls may break apart easily, containing small pieces that pose choking hazards for children. The dolls’ small size also poses a risk if put in the mouth. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) advises immediate discontinuation of fake Labubu use and reports any incidents to safety authorities.
By applying these verification methods—primarily focused on packaging authenticity, the doll’s teeth and face, material quality, and official verification markers—you can confidently distinguish genuine Labubu dolls from counterfeit ones and protect children from potential safety risks associated with fakes.
The Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI) has warned about the unsafe nature of counterfeit Labubu dolls, stating that they bypass rigorous safety checks and compliance requirements [CTSI]. The institute also highlighted that legitimate Labubu toys are created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung and sold by Chinese toymaker Pop Mart.
Recently, Chinese customs officials have seized many thousands of fake Labubu dolls (Lafufus) intended for export since June [Unnamed source]. Despite the high demand, finding legitimate Labubu dolls can be challenging due to their scarcity. However, following the guidelines outlined above can help consumers make informed decisions and ensure the safety of their children.
[1] Pop Mart contacted for comment. [2] Fake Labubu dolls have flooded the UK market. [3] The CTSI warned about the unsafe nature of counterfeit Labubu dolls. [4] Loose stitching and exposed stuffing in counterfeit Labubu dolls increase the risk of suffocation. [5] Overly vibrant colors and poor stitching can indicate a Labubu doll is not the real deal.
- In light of the safety concerns surrounding counterfeit Labubu dolls, making informed home-and-garden purchases is crucial for the well-being of children.
- To ensure a safe and authentic lifestyle, consumers should be vigilant about the quality and origin of their collectible toys, such as the Labubu dolls, and follow the provided authenticity checks and safety precautions.
