Kmart’s affordable homewares have long been a favourite among savvy Australian shoppers, but recent complaints have cast a shadow over one of their most popular winter buys.
Some customers are urging the retailer to remove these products from the shelves, citing a ‘strong chemical smell’ that has left them concerned for their health and safety.
If you recently picked up a set of Kmart’s $30 Floral Butterfly or $40 Gingham Cotton Flannelette sheets, you might want to take a closer look.
A scented surprise: What’s going on?
Over the past few weeks, social media has been abuzz with posts from shoppers who say their new Kmart flannelette sheets reek of chemicals—some describing the odour as ‘almost like petrol but much stronger’.
One parent shared their experience in a popular Facebook group, saying the smell was so overpowering it lingered in their children’s room long after the sheets were unpacked.
‘I’m worried about potential health effects, and I’m sharing this to inform others who may have purchased or plan to purchase them,’ they wrote.
Another shopper recounted a near-miss: ‘I thought someone had been sick somewhere, but it was travelling with me, then I smelled the sheets.’ The odour was so strong, they abandoned their purchase before reaching the checkout.
Kmart responds—but is it enough?
Kmart has responded to the outcry, assuring customers that they take product quality and safety ‘very seriously’.
In a statement, a spokesperson encouraged anyone experiencing issues to contact their customer service team for a review and resolution. ‘We will also conduct our own review off the back of these social media posts,’ they added.
This isn’t the first time Kmart has faced such concerns. In December 2024, the retailer recalled a range of Christmas-themed Anko quilt cover and pillowcase sets after similar complaints.
At the time, Kmart admitted the products ’emitted a strong chemical odour that may cause reactions to consumers as it did not cure properly during the manufacturing process’.
Customers were urged to stop using the items immediately and return them for a refund, as ‘incidents have occurred resulting in serious injury.’
What’s causing the smell?
While the exact cause of the odour hasn’t been confirmed, some shoppers speculate it could be due to chemicals used in the manufacturing or packaging process.
It could be a result of insufficient curing or off-gassing from cardboard inserts. Others suggest it’s a one-off issue, with many reporting that a thorough wash removes the smell entirely.
‘I got my kids flannelette sheets from Kmart and they absolutely stunk!’ one parent wrote. Another added, ‘Yes! They smelled like rotten cheese!’
However, several users chimed in to say the odour disappeared after washing, and a few even claimed the smell was from the cardboard packaging, not the sheets themselves.
Not all bad news: Mixed experiences among shoppers
Despite the complaints, plenty of Kmart fans have come to the sheets’ defence. ‘I’ve never smelled anything like that and I buy all my bedding at Kmart,’ one shopper said.
Another added, ‘I love them, I have had mine for a few years and [they] are still like new.’ It seems the issue isn’t universal, but it’s widespread enough to warrant caution.
What should you do if you’re affected?
If you’ve purchased Kmart flannelette sheets and noticed a strong chemical smell, here’s what you can do:
1. Stop using the product: If the odour is overwhelming or causing discomfort, remove the sheets from your bed immediately.
2. Contact Kmart customer service: Report the issue and ask for advice. Kmart has previously advised customers to ‘immediately bag and return the sheets’ for a refund.
3. Wash thoroughly: Some shoppers report that washing the sheets (sometimes more than once) removes the smell. If you choose to try this, use a gentle, fragrance-free detergent and air dry outdoors if possible.
4. Monitor for reactions: If you or your family experience headaches, skin irritation, or respiratory symptoms, seek medical advice and discontinue use of the product.
A broader issue: Product recalls and consumer safety
Kmart isn’t alone in facing product safety concerns. In recent months, several major brands—including tech companies and car manufacturers—have issued recalls over risks ranging from burns to serious injury.
It’s a timely reminder to stay vigilant about the products we bring into our homes, especially those that come into close contact with our skin.
Your voice matters
Have you experienced a similar issue with Kmart’s flannelette sheets or other bedding? Did the smell wash out, or did you have to return the product? We’d love to hear your story—share your experiences and tips in the comments below. Your feedback could help other readers make informed choices and encourage retailers to maintain the highest safety standards.
Also read: Are you at risk? Kmart urgently recalls household item after burn injuries reported
