Major Cleaning Product Recall Issued Over Bacterial Contamination Fears
More than 1.5 million bottles of a popular cleaning solution have been urgently recalled across the United States and Canada following the discovery of potential bacterial contamination that could pose serious health risks to consumers. The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission announced the recall of Angry Orange Enzyme Stain Removers on Tuesday, citing concerns about the possible presence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a bacteria commonly found in water and soil environments that can cause significant infections in humans.
Extensive Distribution and Retail Presence
The recalled cleaning products enjoyed widespread distribution through major national retailers, with affected bottles sold both in physical stores and through online platforms. According to official documentation, approximately 1,500,000 units were distributed across the United States, with an additional 43,700 bottles reaching Canadian consumers through various retail channels.
Affected products include:
- Angry Orange Enzyme Stain Removers in Fresh Clean Scent
- Angry Orange Enzyme Stain Removers in Orange Twist Scent
- Products packaged in 24-ounce, 32-ounce, and one-gallon-sized containers
- Some units sold as bundled packages including a UV light accessory
The distinctive orange and white bottles feature clear labeling with "Angry Orange" and "Stain & Odor Remover" prominently displayed on the front packaging. These products were available for purchase from March 2019 through December 2025, representing a significant period of consumer exposure.
Retail Network and Consumer Guidance
The contaminated cleaning sprays reached consumers through an extensive network of major retailers, including:
- Walmart stores nationwide
- Target locations across the country
- Home Depot home improvement centers
- Meijer supermarket chains
- Staples office supply stores
- TJ Maxx discount retailers
- Amazon online marketplace
- AngryOrange official website
- Chewy pet supply platform
Despite the widespread distribution and potential contamination, authorities have confirmed that no illnesses have been reported in connection with the recalled products to date. However, the Consumer Product Safety Commission is strongly urging consumers to immediately cease using the stain remover and contact Thrasio, the parent company of the Angry Orange brand, to arrange for a complete refund of their purchase.
Health Implications and Bacterial Risks
The Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria identified in the recall notice can cause various types of infections affecting multiple bodily systems. According to medical experts at the Cleveland Clinic, potential infection sites include the ears, eyes, skin, and respiratory system, particularly the lungs.
Symptoms associated with these infections may include:
- Persistent fever and chills
- Unexplained fatigue and general malaise
- Joint pain and discomfort
- Severe headaches and migraines
- Digestive disturbances including diarrhea
While individuals with robust immune systems typically face lower risks when exposed to this bacteria, the CPSC has emphasized that vulnerable populations including those with compromised immune function, underlying health conditions, or existing medical vulnerabilities face substantially greater danger of developing serious infections requiring medical intervention.
Broader Context of Cleaning Product Recalls
This significant recall represents the latest in a series of cleaning product safety concerns that have emerged in recent months. In August of the previous year, DermaRite initiated a recall of four distinct soap products following the detection of Burkholderia cepacia bacterial contamination. This particular antibiotic-resistant bacteria poses particular risks in healthcare environments and can lead to severe, potentially life-threatening infections according to Centers for Disease Control guidelines.
The earlier recall affected multiple antiseptic products including DermaKleen, DermaSarra, KleenFoam, and PeriGiene formulations. Company officials noted that while healthy individuals might experience localized infections from contaminated products, immunocompromised patients faced significantly greater risks of systemic infections progressing to bloodstream contamination and potentially fatal sepsis conditions.
These consecutive recalls highlight growing concerns about manufacturing quality control and safety protocols within the household cleaning product industry, prompting renewed calls for enhanced regulatory oversight and more rigorous testing procedures before products reach consumer markets.
