Hand soap recalled over dangerous bacteria – how to stay safe
Walmart recalls hand soap nationwide over bacterial contamination risk. Picture Credit: Getty Images
Walmart has issued a nationwide recall of select hand soaps after tests revealed contamination with a bacteria that could cause severe infections, including life-threatening sepsis.
The recall affects Scent Theory Foaming Hand Soap products sold in Walmart stores and online. Customers are urged to stop using the affected bottles immediately and follow safety steps outlined by health authorities.
Why the Hand Soap Was Recalled
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced that the recalled hand soap tested positive for Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a bacteria that can cause serious illness in people with weakened immune systems, chronic lung conditions, or open wounds.
Health experts warn that the bacteria can lead to pneumonia, bloodstream infections, and sepsis, which can be fatal if not treated quickly. The contamination poses a particular risk to hospitalized patients, the elderly, and people with compromised immune systems.
While healthy individuals may experience only mild skin irritation, the CPSC advises that the soap should not be used by anyone.
Affected Walmart Hand Soap Products
The recall covers several varieties of Scent Theory Foaming Hand Soap, each in 11.25-ounce bottles. The affected scents include:
- Lemon Citrus
- Vanilla Coconut
- Fresh Lavender
- Eucalyptus Mint
- Sugar Sweet Pea
The recalled soaps were sold between November 2023 and July 2025 both in Walmart stores nationwide and via Walmart’s website.
Customers can identify affected products by lot numbers and expiration dates listed on the packaging. Walmart has published the full list of these details on its recall notice page.
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How Consumers Can Stay Safe
If you purchased one of the recalled hand soaps:
- Stop Using It Immediately: Do not pour it down the sink, as this could spread bacteria in water systems.
- Seal and Dispose Properly: Place the soap bottle in a sealed plastic bag before throwing it in the trash.
- Clean Surfaces: If the soap touched your counters, sinks, or storage areas, disinfect them thoroughly.
- Watch for Symptoms: Seek medical attention if you experience fever, rash, shortness of breath, or signs of infection after using the soap.
Walmart is offering full refunds to customers who return the affected products, even if they have been opened.
Official Statements
In a statement, Walmart said:
“The safety of our customers is our top priority. We are cooperating with the manufacturer and regulators to ensure affected products are removed from shelves and that our customers are informed on proper disposal.”
The manufacturer, Scent Theory Products LLC, has also launched its own investigation to determine how the contamination occurred.
The Bigger Picture on Bacterial Recalls
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about consumer product safety and bacterial contamination in household goods. Similar recalls have occurred in recent years involving cleaning products and sanitizers.
Public health officials emphasize that hand hygiene products must meet strict safety standards since they are often used multiple times a day. Even a small lapse in production quality can put millions of consumers at risk.