Walmart Recalls 850,000 Water Bottles After Reports of Serious Injuries

Walmart has issued an urgent recall of approximately 850,000 Ozark Trail stainless steel water bottles following alarming reports of the caps forcefully ejecting and causing injuries — including permanent vision loss in at least two individuals.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Walmart officially announced the recall on July 10, 2025, warning consumers to immediately stop using the product.

What’s the Issue?

The recall affects the Ozark Trail 64-ounce stainless steel insulated water bottles, known for their durability and insulation. The danger lies in the black screw-on lid, which can suddenly and forcefully pop off when the bottle has stored carbonated, perishable, or fermented liquids for a period of time.

According to reports, the internal pressure buildup can turn the lid into a projectile — powerful enough to cause impact injuries, including facial trauma and vision damage.

"Two users lost their vision after being struck in the eye. One other person was also injured," stated the CPSC.

Product Details

If you’ve purchased a large stainless steel Ozark Trail bottle from Walmart, here’s how to know if yours is part of the recall:

• Brand: Ozark Trail

• Size: 64 oz

• Material: Silver stainless steel

• Lid: Black, screw-on

• Model Number: 83-662 (found on the product's packaging)

• Sold: Exclusively at Walmart stores and on Walmart.com since 2017

• Retail Price: Around $15

  
  

What To Do If You Own One

If you own this bottle, stop using it immediately. Walmart is offering a full refund.

How to return it:

• Take it to any Walmart store for a refund

• Or call Walmart Customer Service at 1-800-925-6278 (7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Central Time, daily)

• Visit Walmart’s help page or the official CPSC recall site for more details

Why This Matters

This isn’t just a typical product defect. This is a serious safety hazard that has already resulted in life-altering injuries. With over 850,000 bottles sold, the risk is widespread.

For a company like Walmart — which prides itself on family-safe, affordable products — this recall is a major wake-up call around the importance of product safety, especially for everyday items like water bottles. Consumers deserve better.

I always keep a sharp eye on recalls like this. This one hits differently because water bottles are such a staple — whether you’re headed to the gym, the office, or your kid’s soccer game. Let this be your reminder: even everyday products can pose risks. Stay informed, check your household items often, and don’t hesitate to act when a recall is announced.

Stay safe out there. And yes — check that bottle.