A product designed to help people stay hydrated has turned into a safety risk. Walmart recently announced the Ozark water bottle recall after reports revealed serious injuries. Two users suffered permanent vision loss when the bottle’s lid launched into their faces. A third person sustained a serious facial injury.
Walmart sold around 850,000 of these stainless steel bottles in stores and online since 2017. Consumers trusted the product for its durability and insulation, but a hidden flaw created a dangerous situation. When users filled the bottle with milk, juice, or carbonated drinks, pressure built up inside. Upon opening, the pressure released the lid with great force, turning it into a projectile.
The water bottle recall highlights how common household products can cause unexpected harm when manufacturers fail to anticipate real-world usage.
What You Need to Know About the Recall
The affected item is the Ozark Trail 64-ounce stainless steel vacuum-insulated water bottle. It features a silver body, a black screw-top lid, and the Ozark Trail logo engraved on the side. The bottle measures about 4.41 inches wide and 11.5 inches tall and carries model number 83-462.
The problem starts when users store beverages other than water. Liquids like soda or juice release gas as they sit. This gas creates internal pressure that builds up inside the tightly sealed container. When someone opens the lid, it can launch unexpectedly and strike the user in the face or eyes.
These incidents prompted Walmart to launch the Ozark water bottle recall in coordination with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) on July 10, 2025.
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Reports of Injury and Manufacturer Response
Three serious injuries triggered this urgent Walmart bottle recall. Two victims lost vision in one eye after the lids struck them directly. Another person suffered facial trauma during a similar incident. In all cases, the users opened the bottles under normal conditions.
Walmart acted quickly once these reports surfaced. The company pulled the bottles from its stores and issued public warnings. Meanwhile, the CPSC confirmed that the product posed an impact and laceration risk, especially when used with certain beverages.
Olympia Tools International, based in California, imported the bottles from China and distributed them through Walmart. The bottles sold for about $15 and appealed to outdoor enthusiasts, students, and fitness lovers alike. However, the lack of clear warnings about storage risks contributed to their misuse.
This water bottle recall serves as a wake-up call for manufacturers who may overlook how consumers actually use their products.
What to Do If You Own One
If you purchased one of these bottles, take action right away. First, stop using the bottle, especially if you’ve stored anything other than water inside. Do not attempt to open it if you suspect pressure has built up.
Next, return the bottle to any Walmart store. You do not need a receipt. Walmart will issue a full refund to all affected customers. You can also call their customer service line at 1-800-925-6278 between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. Central Time for more details.
In addition, check Walmart’s website or the CPSC recall page to stay updated. The Ozark water bottle recall affects a large number of households, so spreading awareness remains important.
Why It Happened and What It Means
The design of the bottle failed to account for pressure caused by fermenting or carbonated beverages. Many users assumed they could store any drink inside, not just water. When they opened the container, the stored gas released forcefully and sent the lid flying.
This flaw shows the importance of anticipating user behavior. It also raises concerns about proper labeling. Without clear instructions or warnings, consumers had no reason to expect danger from an ordinary water bottle.
The Ozark water bottle recall reveals a broader issue in product design. Manufacturers must consider not only how a product should work, but also how people are likely to use it.
Final Thoughts
The Ozark water bottle recall reminds us that even simple products can carry serious risks. In this case, what seemed like a sturdy, well-made bottle caused lasting injuries. While the number of reported cases remains small, the severity of harm makes this recall a high priority.
If you or someone you know owns this product, return it immediately. Don’t ignore the warning signs. Safety begins with awareness, and in this case, that awareness could prevent future injuries.
Walmart has taken responsibility by removing the product and offering refunds. Now, it’s up to consumers to follow through and stay alert. The Walmart bottle recall reinforces one simple truth: even everyday items deserve careful scrutiny.
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