Wednesday-style costume sold on eBay poses serious burns risk, OPSS warns

Parents checking Halloween purchases are being warned to stop using a Wednesday Addams-style costume identified in an Office for Product Safety and Standards report. The UK regulator rates the product as presenting a serious burns risk because the black plaited wig failed flammability requirements.

The report, published on 22 October 2026, concerns eBay item 307143487287. It names the listing as “Kids Girls Wednesday The Addams Family Costume Halloween Dress Birthday”. The set comprises a black fabric dress, tights, a belt and the wig.

What testing found

According to OPSS, the wig hair continued to burn for 10–15 seconds after the test flame was removed. The specified maximum under the cited BS EN 71-2 flammability requirements is two seconds.

The regulator says that, if the wig came into contact with an ignition source while being worn, the hair could catch fire and continue to flame, causing burns to the wearer. This describes the risk identified by testing, rather than a reported injury involving a child.

OPSS also records missing documentation and markings and says the product does not meet the Toys (Safety) Regulations 2011.

Check the item number

The report identifies this listing and product. It does not establish that every costume using the same character or style has the same defect.

Stop use and contact the seller

eBay has removed the listing, according to the corrective-action section. Owners are advised to stop using the product immediately and keep it out of reach of young children.

OPSS directs buyers to contact the distributor they bought it from to request a refund or replacement. Removing a sales listing does not remove costumes already delivered to homes, so the advice also matters to people who bought theirs before the warning appeared.