The Hidden Dangers Of The Labubu Dolls

The grinning troll doll is the IT this summer

Labubu dolls — mischievous, sharp-toothed plush characters — have become the fashion accessory of the summer. Often clipped to high-end handbags, they’re flying off shelves worldwide, with long queues spotted outside Pop Mart stores. Their quirky appeal has even sparked a wave of imitations, nicknamed “Lafufus,” offering a tempting bargain for style-conscious shoppers.

Counterfeits Flood the Market

Trading Standards officers have issued a stark warning after seizing dangerous fake Labubu dolls in North East Lincolnshire. These counterfeits may look like the real thing, but they’re poorly made and can pose serious safety risks, especially to children. The surge in imitations shows just how far the craze has spread — and why buyers need to stay vigilant.

Hidden Dangers for Children

Tests revealed that some fake dolls contain small, detachable parts that could cause choking if swallowed. Many also lack essential safety markings, including the CE or UKCA labels, or the name and address of a UK-based supplier. For parents, this means the toy’s origin and safety standards are impossible to verify.

Shoddy Craftsmanship Exposed

The seized imitations showed alarming quality issues, including loose stitching and limbs that could break away with minimal force. These flaws not only reduce the toy’s lifespan but also increase the risk of injury during play. In contrast, genuine Labubus are designed and tested to meet strict safety requirements.

Official Warning from Authorities

Councillor Ron Shepherd, Portfolio Holder for Safer and Stronger Communities, urged shoppers to “remain vigilant” and report any unsafe toys they come across. He warned that cheaper prices might seem attractive but often come with hidden risks when products aren’t made to legal safety standards.

How to Spot a Fake Labubu

Bionic, a business insurance comparison site, has outlined four key checks for buyers:

1. Packaging Quality – Authentic Labubus have sturdy boxes with sharp printing, embossed logos, and secure seals.
2. Finish and Detail – Genuine versions feature clean paintwork, precise details, and accurate proportions.
3. Branding and Stamps – Look for official Pop Mart and Kasing Lung markings, plus serial numbers or authenticity stamps.
4. Pricing – A price far lower than the going rate is a major red flag.

Protecting the Marketplace

Trading Standards officers are working to remove unsafe counterfeits from shops, but consumer awareness is key. By knowing what to look for — and resisting too-good-to-be-true deals — buyers can help keep these dangerous imitations off the shelves and out of children’s hands.

Source: The Mirror