Remember those Baseus magnetic power banks you bought online? Turns out overheating, swelling, and setting things on fire wasn't a feature—132,000 units just got the boot from the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has pulled the plug on around 132,000 Baseus magnetic power banks following 171 reports of overheating batteries, 132 instances of swelling, and 39 cases where the gadgets turned into tiny flamethrowers. With $20,000 in property damage and 13 burn injuries already on the record, Baseus is urging consumers to stop using these hazards-on-the-go immediately. Full refunds are being offered, so you can finally put those firestarters behind you without burning a hole in your pocket.

The affected power banks were sold online between April 2022 and April 2024, retailing for prices ranging from $18 to $55. They could be found on popular e-commerce sites like AliExpress.com, Amazon.com, and Baseus.com. If you own one, it's time to track it down and check for the model numbers PPCXM06 and PPCXW06. You'll find these identifiers on the magnetic side of the product, while the conspicuous '20W' is visible on the non-magnetic side. And don’t worry, you’re not looking for mysterious hieroglyphics—just simple model numbers!

These problematic power banks were available in a range of conspicuous colors, so whether yours is in your preferred shade of white, black, light blue, or light pink, it’s time to part ways. Given the propensity of these units to go rogue and combust, not even a stylish façade can save them.

The transatlantic culprit behind these incendiary incidents is Shenzhen Baseus Technology Co, the Chinese company that manufactured these ticking time bombs. The recall and refund process is being coordinated through Baseus, with proactive measures being called for. Users are asked to provide proof of purchase for a full refund, or they can still obtain a $36 cash refund for their troubles sans proof. All you need to do is email a picture of the recalled product with the model number visible to get the ball rolling.

In extreme cases where the power banks have already shown signs of overheating or swelling, immediate disposal is recommended. Make sure to follow your local and state ordinances to safely dispose of these energy bricks. The last thing anyone needs is to turn trash day into a neighborhood bonfire.

For those seeking more information or needing assistance with the recall process, Baseus has set up a helpline at (855) 215-5824. You can call them Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern. Be prepared for some enlightening hold music... perhaps something more soothing than a fire alarm.

Let’s admit, nobody buys a power bank expecting it to bring your Kindle to life with literal flames instead of just extending its battery life. Baseus's magnetic power banks promised convenience but delivered more pyrotechnics than a Fourth of July celebration. Here’s hoping the replacements are more about charging your devices and less about turning off your smoke detectors.