Michigan Warns: Orb Funkee Toys Recalled Over Asbestos Risk

Seems like every week there’s a hot new toy that the kids just GOTTA have. You know how it goes, they’re begging for it in every checkout line, every birthday party conversation, and every trip through Walmart.

Have your kids been asking for this one? It's worth taking a look in the toy bin.

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The State of Michigan, through the Department of Health and Human Services, is warning families about recalled Orb Funkee squeeze toys. They say to stop using the toys immediately and dispose of them. Why? The concern is the sand inside may contain asbestos.

Yes, the same asbestos you hear about causing serious, long-term health risks if inhaled.

What Toys Are Being Recalled

The recall involves Orb Funkee squeeze toys sold nationwide between February 2025 and April 2026. Officials say about 121,340 units are impacted.

The toys are soft, stretchy squeeze monkey figures filled with sand.

Two models are included in the recall:

Model 17451: a large golden “monkee”
Model 41929: smaller “monkees” in assorted colors including orange, purple, and green

If you’re checking your home, the key identifier is the date code 3102491A. You’ll find it printed on the hand of the golden version or on the back of the smaller toys.

Why MDHHS Says To Stop Using Them Immediately

Officials say the sand inside may contain asbestos, specifically fibrous tremolite asbestos.

Asbestos is dangerous because it doesn’t break down in the body. If fibers are inhaled, they can lodge deep in the lungs and remain there for years. Over time, that exposure can lead to scarring and serious diseases including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.

There is no known safe level of asbestos exposure. Even small amounts of airborne fibers can be harmful, which is why health officials are urging families to stop using the toys immediately.

Children are considered especially vulnerable because their lungs are still developing.

Where The Recalled Toys Were Sold

The recalled toys were sold at two major national retailers:

Walmart stores nationwide
Ollie’s Bargain Outlet locations nationwide

If your child picked one up as a gift, stocking stuffer, party favor, or checkout aisle impulse buy, it’s something you'll want to take a closer look at.

What To Do If You Have One At Home

Stop using it immediately and make sure it's out of reach of children.

From there, what you do depends on the condition of the toy.

How To Safely Dispose Of The Toy

If the toy is intact, officials say to double-bag it in heavy-duty plastic bags, seal it securely with tape, and dispose of it at a Type II licensed landfill following local guidelines.

Refunds are available through The Orb Factory, but you’ll need to verify the date code and send a photo of the bagged toy.

What To Do If The Toy Is Damaged Or Leaking Sand

If the toy is ripped or the sand has escaped, officials say do not vacuum or sweep it. That can spread particles into the air and make exposure more likely.

Instead, wear a mask and gloves, use damp cloths to carefully collect any spilled material, and place everything involved — the toy, cloths, gloves, and mask — into a sealed plastic bag. That bag should then be double-bagged and disposed of according to asbestos handling rules. In some cases, officials recommend contacting a licensed asbestos cleanup contractor.

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Refund Information And Contact Details

Consumers can contact The Orb Factory for refunds or questions:

Phone: 800-741-0089 (Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–4 p.m. ET)
Email: customerservice@orbtoys.com

No illnesses have been reported so far, but health officials are making it clear this is not something to ignore or put off.

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Gallery Credit: Stephen Lenz