ᐅ Are there child-safe locking mechanisms available for PAX doors?

Created on: 5 Apr 2024 08:12
R
reelron
R
reelron
5 Apr 2024 08:12
Good morning everyone,

I have a question that has been on my mind lately while setting up my apartment: Are there actually childproof locking mechanisms for the doors of the IKEA PAX wardrobe?

I have two young children aged 2 and 4 years and want to prevent them from opening the wardrobe doors unsupervised and possibly accessing dangerous or delicate items. I am aware that PAX doors do not come with built-in child safety locks by default, as they focus more on simple design and functionality.

Therefore, I am interested to know if there are special, reliable aftermarket solutions available that are safe and easy to install without significantly compromising the look or usability of the wardrobe. I would also appreciate experiences from people who have already tested practical systems – how secure are they? Are there any recommendations for particular products or techniques to make PAX doors childproof?

I look forward to your opinions and suggestions!
S
SONLIS
5 Apr 2024 09:27
Hello,

regarding this question: Yes, there are several solutions to make PAX wardrobe doors childproof. Most rely on magnetic locks or fastening systems that are installed inside and can be opened with a key or magnetic tool.

An advantage is that no visible elements are on the outside, so the design remains unaffected. However, it should be noted that not all systems are suitable for sliding doors, as they operate differently from regular hinged doors.

During installation, it is important that adhesive or screw connections are really strong, because small children can apply considerable force.
F
Franck
5 Apr 2024 10:03
Magnetic child safety locks are the best choice for PAX doors. They are easy to use, barely visible, and secure. Make sure they are suitable for the type of door.
J
Josefane
5 Apr 2024 11:59
Interesting, but why exactly is the magnetic approach considered better?

After all, small parts or keys can be lost, or children with sufficient access might be able to bypass such rods. Are there any proven studies showing that these systems are truly reliable?

In contrast, mechanical bolts may be less elegant but could potentially offer higher security. To me, the key question is how exactly "childproof" is defined.

Do we have any practical experience regarding how resistant these systems are to strong pulling or leverage forces?
J
Joshbe
5 Apr 2024 13:21
The effectiveness of magnetic child safety locks is confirmed by independent tests showing they withstand pull forces of up to 15 kg (33 lbs). For typical household use, especially with young children, they provide sufficient security.

Mechanical solutions, such as bolts, are more robust but often affect the appearance and can mechanically alter the doors.

A recommended approach is the combination of easy-to-install magnetic locks, which are specially made for PAX doors, and a control mechanism to prevent losing the keys.
R
reelron
5 Apr 2024 14:45
Josefane schrieb:
The question of how to exactly define 'childproof' seems central to me.

That’s a good point. To me, childproof in this case means that my children should not be able to open the doors by pulling, applying light force, or simply playing around with them. At the same time, I don’t want to make it unnecessarily difficult or complicated for adults to operate.
Joshbe schrieb:
The effectiveness of magnetic child safety locks is confirmed by independent tests

Thanks for the info, that’s somewhat reassuring. So I would initially focus on magnetic systems. Are there any experience reports on whether the adhesive bonds hold up over a long period? After all, PAX doors are often made from lightweight material.