How to Secure a Dresser to the Wall for Childproofing

Childproofing is a necessity in any home with young children. While most parents are quick to purchase outlet covers and install gates and drawer latches, many forget about securing heavy furniture to walls. According to Science Daily, furniture tip-over injuries are on the rise, and sent nearly 15,000 children under the age of 18 to the hospital between 1990 and 2007. A good place to start is in the baby̵7;s room, by securing the child̵7;s dresser to the wall.

Things You'll Need

  • Pencil
  • Stud finder
  • 2 L-brackets or 2 nylon safety straps
  • Anchors
  • 4 screws (if using a nylon strap)
  • 8 screws (if using L-brackets)
  • Electric drill

Instructions

    • 1

      Make a small mark with the pencil on the wall at the two top corners of the dresser to mark the spots for your anchors. Move the dresser away from the wall.

    • 2

      Use a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall behind the dresser.

    • 3

      Attach safety straps or L-brackets to the wall at the points you marked with the pencil by screwing them into the wall with the electric drill. Use longer screws when attaching an L-bracket to a wall. Nylon safety straps will require one screw on each end, while L-brackets typically have two holes on each side. Secure the straps or brackets to a stud in the wall to make the dresser more secure. Use anchors with the screws for additional security.

    • 4

      Move the dresser back against the wall and screw the other ends of the straps or L-brackets to the top of the dresser, using the electric drill and shorter screws. These shorter screws will not interfere with the opening and closing of the dresser, whereas longer screws may.

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