Batman-style capes recalled as children '˜strangled'

The household superstore chain issued a warning to customers urging them to immediately stop children from playing with the Lattjo capes.

It comes after three Batman wannabes were left with “marks and scratches” when “the cape got stuck and didn’t detach easily enough from the children’s necks”, it said.

None of the victims needed medical treatment but IKEA said it was taking “precautionary measures” due to the risk of strangulation and neck injuries.

It said an investigation found the fastening on the cape does not detach easily enough from children’s necks, and new safety requirements were necessary.

A statement read: “At IKEA, we have zero tolerance regarding child safety and we cannot accept that there is a risk of injury while playing.”

It added: “As an immediate and precautionary action we recall the product.

“IKEA will also improve future products and thereby children’s safety by putting new requirements in place.”

Stores around the world had been selling the black LATTJO bat cape at around €14 - just over £11 - since November 2015.

The product was marketed as something which “encourages role play” and “helps children to develop social skills by imitating grown-ups and inventing their own roles”.

Customers who return the bat capes will be issued a full refund. Proof of purchase is not required.