ᐅ How can I make Ikea BESTA doors and drawers childproof without damaging the construction?

Hello everyone,

I am looking for a gentle yet effective way to childproof the doors and drawers of my Ikea Besta cabinets. It is important to me that the structures are not damaged, so no drilling or adhesive that leaves marks or permanently alters their functionality.

Does anyone have experience or recommendations on how to equip this furniture with simple methods or special child safety devices that can be removed completely without residue if needed?

My main concern is that children cannot easily open the drawers or doors, but the operation should not be too complicated for adults. Perhaps there are special clips, magnetic locks, or similar solutions that can be installed without causing damage?

I look forward to your tips and advice!

Hello Jonathanna,

Regarding your issue with the Ikea BESTA doors and drawers, I recommend the following proven methods that won’t damage the furniture:

- Child safety locks or latches that can be attached using clamps or pressure mounts. These can be removed without using screws or adhesives.

- Magnetic child safety locks: a magnetic latch is installed inside, which can only be opened from the outside with a special magnetic key. Since these are usually glued on, it’s best to use high-quality removable adhesive strips (e.g., 3M Command Strips). They leave no marks and can be removed completely without residue.

- Swivel handles or screw-mounted locks should be avoided if you want the option to easily remove them later.

- Alternatively, there are clamp locks for drawers that fit between the frame and drawer without directly damaging the furniture.

Be sure to follow the installation instructions for the safety product carefully, and test the usability with adults several times before attaching everything.

A small warning: adhesive strips can lose their hold over time due to dust or moisture, so you should check these solutions regularly if needed.

I hope this helps you!

Magnetic fasteners with removable adhesive strips are my recommendation. No drilling required, residue-free removal, and relatively easy to install.

Alternatively, there are snap-on straps that only need to be clamped on, no tools necessary.

Hello Jonathanna,

I think your question is very relevant because it addresses exactly what many parents are concerned about: how to childproof your home without damaging the furniture. This is especially important with the Ikea BESTA system, as their surfaces can be quite delicate.

A practical solution is so-called "locking clips for drawers and doors," which are installed on the inside. These are usually made of plastic and can be attached using very thin double-sided adhesive tape.

Typically, they can be opened with some force or sliding motion—but small children usually can’t manage that. One advantage of these devices is that they can be removed much more easily and without residue compared to stubborn mounting adhesives.

LOGEMIN schrieb:
Magnetic child safety locks: These involve installing a magnetic latch inside that can only be released from the outside with a special magnetic key.

I can confirm this—I personally use such magnetic systems. They are also unobtrusive and do not damage the surface. When removing them, it is advisable to warm the adhesive strips with heat (for example, with a hairdryer), which makes removal easier.

Another tip: always ensure that the surface is clean and free of grease before installation so that the adhesive tapes stick well.

In summary:
- Magnetic systems with removable adhesive tapes
- Clamp locks that fit between the drawer and the cabinet frame
- Avoid drilling or using strong adhesives

This way, you can ensure safety without causing permanent damage or impairing the furniture’s function.

I hope this helps!