A Washington woman has launched a federal lawsuit against Target Corp. and Berkshire Blanket & Home Co. Inc., claiming a heated blanket she purchased from Target caused severe burns to her toes after allegedly overheating during normal use.

The plaintiff, Wendy West, filed her complaint Thursday, detailing a harrowing experience that left her with months of medical treatment, lasting pain, and impaired mobility.

A Cozy Blanket Turned Into a Painful Ordeal

According to court filings, West purchased the Threshold-brand heated throw—manufactured by Berkshire and marketed exclusively under Target’s home product line—in November 2022. For several days, it performed as expected. But on the morning of November 10, 2022, comfort turned to agony.

West claims she suddenly felt a sharp, burning pain in her right foot. When she pulled off the blanket, she discovered that all five toes were severely burned. Doctors later diagnosed her with partial thickness burns, requiring ongoing treatment.

West’s complaint alleges she continues to experience pain, reduced mobility, and hypersensitivity—symptoms she says have disrupted her daily life and may demand further medical intervention.

Allegations of Defective Design and Failure to Warn

West accuses Target and Berkshire Blanket & Home Co. of negligence, design and manufacturing defects, and failure to warn consumers about potential overheating dangers.

She argues that the blanket’s heating system either contained a defect in its wiring or temperature regulation mechanism, or was improperly assembled, creating a hazardous product that could inflict severe injury under ordinary use.

The lawsuit also includes claims of breach of express warranty, asserting that Target’s marketing and labeling falsely assured consumers of the product’s safety and reliability.

Damages and Legal Representation

West is seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering, demanding accountability from both companies for what she describes as a preventable product malfunction.

She is represented by J. Domenic Martini, Dan Fruchter, and Richard R. Barker of Singleton Schreiber LLP, along with Marie Docter of Briggs & Briggs.

Representatives for Target and Berkshire Blanket & Home Co. were unavailable for comment as of Friday.

Heated Products Under Fire

The case adds to a growing list of consumer safety concerns involving heated household products, as electric blankets and heating pads face scrutiny for potential fire and burn risks.

If proven, West’s allegations could underscore the risks of manufacturing shortcuts and highlight the importance of strict quality control in consumer electronics—especially those designed for warmth and comfort.

For now, Target faces a chilling courtroom battle over a product that was supposed to bring heat—but instead, brought harm.