Product Liability: Dangers of Washers and Dryers

It's hard to imagine our homes without household appliances to help us wash, cook, clean, or stay warm or cool. Many household appliances present dangers in our homes, from fire or electrical hazards to carbon monoxide poisoning. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates an annual 430 injuries and 30 deaths from problems with washing machines and dryers.

Thousands of New Yorkers are injured by defective or faulty products annually. Unfortunately, most people don't find out about product liability issues until after people have become injured or killed.

Washers and dryers present a number of potential safety concerns, including:

Fire Hazards

Dryers can cause fires from starting if the lint collector isn't changed frequently enough. They can also cause fires or burns if the exhaust ducts are defective.

Pets and Children Become Trapped

Curiosity isn't limited to cats! Small dogs and even children may climb inside a washer or dryer, particular those that are front loading, and become trapped inside. Always check inside your washer and dryer before turning them on!

Electrical Hazards

Faulty electrical cords or plugs can cause both washers and dryers to catch fire. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that over 16,000 house fires are started each year from washing machines and dryers.

Mold and Bacteria

Washing machines are also known for growing mold and other forms of bacteria which can cause illness. Studies by an environmental microbiologist have found that nearly 60% of washing machines have coliform bacteria and about 10% had E-coli in them. When sterile cloths are watched in non-bleach laundry, 40% contained bacteria and enough of the bacteria remained to contaminate the load of laundry done immediately after the clothes containing the bacteria.




Lever & Stolzenberg, LLP is located in White Plains, New York and serves clients throughout the state, including New York City's five boroughs (The Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan and Staten Island) as well as Westchester County, Rockland County and Long Island. 

Additional Cities: Yonkers, Port Chester, Scarsdale, New Rochelle, Peekskill, Rye, Mount Kisco, Bedford, Eastchester, Mount Vernon, Mount Pleasant, Pelham, Ossining, Greenburgh, New City, Spring Valley, Pearl River.

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