ᐅ How can I childproof IKEA BESTA drawers?

Hello everyone,

I am currently looking into ways to childproof the drawers of the IKEA BESTA system. Our little explorers are already eagerly grabbing everything they shouldn’t, and unfortunately, the BESTA drawers contain several items that are not safe for toddlers.

I am searching for practical solutions that can be installed with minimal effort, are sturdy, and do not significantly affect usability for adults. I am especially interested in mechanical or magnetic locks that can be retrofitted since the furniture is already assembled.

Does anyone have experience with such mechanisms or maybe even a DIY idea? I’m curious to hear tips on whether there are specific drawer locks for IKEA BESTA or if other child safety products work well in this case.

Thanks in advance for your help!

Hey ridofo! This is a really important topic, thanks for explaining it so thoroughly! I had the same problem with my BESTA and ended up using magnetic child safety locks. They fit perfectly because of their minimalist design, and they work very reliably. Installation is simple—you just need to measure accurately, and then they hold firmly!

What I also like is that the drawers can be easily unlocked with a small magnetic key—this is convenient and keeps children away. I really appreciate your idea of going for solutions that aren’t too complicated.

If you want, I’d be happy to share which brands I used and where issues might arise. You’ve got this! 🙂

NUPIN schrieb:
I had the same problem with my BESTA and ultimately chose magnetic child safety locks.

Hello ridofo,
you are definitely on the right track focusing on magnetic safety locks. They are generally considered one of the best solutions because they are childproof yet still easy for adults to operate.

However, keep in mind that installing magnetic locks usually requires mounting them inside the drawer and on the BESTA frame – this needs tools and some precision to ensure everything fits properly.

Alternatively, you could consider clamp or latch locks that can be attached inside or outside. However, these might cause more wear on the drawers or affect the overall design.

If you want, I can share more details about common models and provide mounting tips.

Let's be honest, most of these child safety locks are more of a gimmick than truly effective. Children are natural problem solvers – they often bypass such safety devices faster than expected.

What if you just integrate the drawers into the shelving unit so they are hard to reach? Or even better – avoid storing valuable or dangerous items in the lower compartments?

Of course, safety is important, but sometimes I think we overcomplicate things. A bit of education and supervision might be a more sustainable solution. Sure, that might sound inconvenient, but it's an option, isn't it?

Connor schrieb:
Honestly, most of these child safety locks seem more like a gimmick than truly effective.

I can understand that, but my goal is to create an additional barrier, not rely solely on supervision. Kids are very creative, and I want to prevent them from getting hold of items that could cause injury. Unfortunately, we can't place the drawers any higher; the BESTA shelving unit is already fixed in place.

Peone schrieb:
However, you should keep in mind that installing magnetic locks usually requires mounting them inside the drawer and on the frame of the BESTA — this needs tools and some precision to ensure everything fits properly.

Could you please specify which tools and materials I will need exactly? Also, are there any special tips to make sure the installation is durable? My tool kit is quite basic.

Good morning ridofo,

For installing magnetic safety latches on IKEA BESTA drawers, I recommend the following:

- Screwdriver, preferably a Phillips head; sometimes a small socket wrench may also be needed
- Drill or cordless screwdriver for mounting the brackets (caution: precise drilling is important!)
- Spirit level or measuring tape for accurate measurements
- Suitable screws, which often come with the safety latches

My tip: When drilling, avoid working too close to the edge, as IKEA furniture is often made of MDF or particleboard and could split. Start by pre-drilling with a thinner drill bit.

Magnetic latches work best when they are perfectly aligned opposite each other—so check multiple times before fully tightening the screws. It also helps if you empty the drawer beforehand and test the mechanism in a visible spot.

If you’re unsure, feel free to ask again. Good luck!