Mother Alerts Parents to Dangerous Needoh Cube TikTok Trend Causing Severe Burns
A mother from Plainfield is raising awareness among parents and children about the hazards associated with the Needoh cube, a trendy sensory toy. Recently, her son suffered severe burns on his face due to a dangerous TikTok challenge that encourages kids to microwave the toy.
Incidents Linked to Needoh Cube Trend
According to Loyola Medicine, four patients have presented with burns from Needoh cubes in recent months. The trendy gel-filled toys are not inherently dangerous. However, a viral TikTok challenge has prompted children to microwave the toys, making them explode and cause significant injuries.
Caleb’s Accident
Whitney Grubb, the mother of 9-year-old Caleb Chabolla, recounted how her son was injured. After discussing the trend at school, Caleb decided to try it at home. As he opened the microwave, the toy exploded, splattering gel all over his face and hands.
“I heard him scream and saw him running to the bathroom,” Grubb recalled. “By the time we reached the hospital, his eye was swollen shut.” Thankfully, his vision remained unaffected, but he suffered second-degree burns.
Expert Warnings
Kelly McElligott from Loyola Medicine’s burn center emphasized the serious risks associated with heating the Needoh cube. “Because it’s so viscous, it sticks, and it stays hot longer, it can cause more severe burns,” she noted.
- Caleb was hospitalized for two days.
- No skin grafts were necessary, but scarring may occur.
- Another child was injured after microwaving the toy and pushing her finger into it.
Safety Recommendations for Parents
Both McElligott and Grubb urge parents to educate their children about toy safety. They stress the importance of avoiding heating the Needoh cube in any form, including microwaves and hot water.
“Talk with your kids about the dangers,” Grubb advised. Warning labels on Needoh products explicitly state not to heat them. Despite attempts to contact the toy manufacturer, Schylling, no response was received.
Caleb is scheduled for a follow-up appointment at the burn clinic, and he plans to return to school later this week.
