Parents are being urged to check their children’s wardrobes after popular high-street retailers Next and Matalan were affected by an urgent recall of several kids' summer outfits due to serious safety concerns. The affected clothing items sold under the Miss Summer brand feature decorative draw cords that are longer than legally permitted, posing a risk of strangulation or choking, according to the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS). Customers are being told to stop using the products immediately.

The danger lies in the cords potentially getting caught or wrapped around a child’s neck, prompting retailers to pull the items from sale and issue safety notices. The recall includes a number of items such as printed Boho summer dresses, knitted top and shorts sets with matching headbands, and printed patchwork-style summer dresses. 

The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) wrote about the Next and Matalan recall: "The product presents risks of strangulation and choking as they have decorative draw cords which exceed the maximum permissible length.

"While worn, the cord may become entangled and tighten across the child’s neck, leading to strangulation, entrapment or choking.

"The product does not meet the requirements of the General Product Safety Regulations 2005.

"The product have been recalled from end users by Next and Matalan. Owners of the product should cease use immediately and return the product for a full refund."

Next shoppers can return items in-store for a full refund while Matalan customers can request a return label via the Royal Mail returns portal.