Beware of the Dangerous Lafufu Dolls

The beloved Labubu dolls have exploded in popularity, so much so that counterfeit versions—dubbed Lafufus—are now flooding the market, posing serious risks to children's safety. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), these fake dolls can be deadly.

The Chilling Warning from Safety Regulators

On Monday, the CPSC issued an urgent safety warning highlighting the choking hazards associated with these imitation toys. These knockoffs, often sold as both dolls and keychains, are small enough for a child to fit in their mouth, potentially blocking their airway—an alarming risk for parents to consider.

Moreover, many of these human-made replicas are notoriously shoddy, with the potential to break into smaller parts that can be easily swallowed. CPSC officials are urging consumers to steer clear of these imitation products and to stop using any they might already own.

A Call to Action for Parents

Peter Feldman, the Acting Chairman of the CPSC, sternly stated, "These fake Labubu dolls are dangerous, illegal, and have no place in American homes. No parent should have to worry about whether a toy is a choking hazard. Protect your children by purchasing only from reputable sellers."

The Real Labubu: What You Need to Know

Labubus, inspired by the whimsical characters from the book "The Monsters Trilogy" by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung, typically retail for under $30 through renowned sellers like Pop Mart. However, some rare variants have been known to fetch thousands on online marketplaces.

How to Identify a Fake Lafufu

So how can you tell the real Labubu from a Lafufu? The CPSC advises keen-eyed consumers to look for deeply discounted prices, which are a red flag for inauthentic products. Authentic Labubus should come with a holographic Pop Mart sticker and a scannable QR code. Additionally, newer dolls feature a discreet UV stamp on one foot.

A simple examination of the doll’s teeth can also provide clues—a genuine Labubu has nine teeth, while fakes may have a different count. Plus, counterfeit dolls sometimes exhibit brighter colors than their authentic counterparts, making them easy to spot.

Protect Your Little Ones!

As a parent, it’s crucial to be vigilant when shopping for toys. The joy of a Labubu shouldn't come at the expense of your child’s safety. Always verify the authenticity of products and purchase from trusted retailers!