ᐅ How can I make Billy shelves child-safe without compromising their stability?

Created on: 29 Aug 2020 08:47
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nadjada
Hello everyone, I plan to use several IKEA Billy bookcases in our home, including in the children’s rooms. My question is how to make these shelves as child-safe as possible without compromising their stability.

By child-safe, I mainly mean preventing them from tipping over and ensuring that children cannot easily climb on them or hurt themselves. At the same time, I don’t want to lose the proven stability of the shelves; they should remain sturdy even after any safety measures are applied. Do you have any experience or good tips on anchoring, securing, or recommended additions?

Thanks in advance!
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Alina67
29 Aug 2020 13:02
nadjada schrieb:
our walls are actually drywall

For drywall, I recommend using metal cavity anchors, also known as toggle bolts or wing anchors. These provide excellent load distribution behind the wall and significantly increase load capacity compared to simple plastic anchors.

Brands like Fischer or Würth offer good products, such as the Fischer UX metal anchor or MH 10 metal anchor. It is important to choose the correct size for the screw diameter used in Billy mounting kits (usually 4-5 mm).

Before installation, be sure to drill to the correct depth with a drill, and install the anchors carefully.
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umberto
30 Aug 2020 08:22
I would also recommend fitting the shelves' side panels with special anti-climb strips. These prevent children from finding footholds or handholds. It is a simple but effective addition.
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Eleanor
30 Aug 2020 09:55
nadjada schrieb:
Is there something special that works particularly well without overcrowding the rooms?

Flexible safety gates made of mesh or lightweight plastic are convenient and can be quickly installed or removed when needed. They block access but appear less bulky than solid fences. Additionally, these gates can be hooked in at multiple points as required.
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kogudra
30 Aug 2020 10:03
Eleanor schrieb:
Flexible protective screens made of mesh or lightweight plastic

This is a good addition, especially when the shelf cannot be moved. Alternatively, you can use special corner protectors and edge cushions for the shelves to prevent injuries from bumping into them.