ᐅ How can I childproof Ikea BESTA doors without complicated installation?

Hello everyone,

I’m looking for an effective way to childproof the doors of my IKEA Besta cabinet without complicated or time-consuming installation. Ideally, I want a solution that is easy to attach and just as easy to remove when needed. It’s important that the doors stay securely locked to prevent small children from getting access, but I don’t want to undertake major modifications or lengthy installations.

Does anyone have practical tips or experience with child safety locks specifically for IKEA Besta doors? Which methods work well, and which ones are better to avoid? Thanks in advance for your ideas!

The challenge with IKEA BESTA doors is that their simple hinge and latch system is not inherently childproof. Without complex installation, I recommend using flexible magnetic or self-adhesive child safety locks applied to the inside of the doors.

Important points:
- The attachment should be removable without residue, for example, adhesive pads with low tack.
- The locking mechanism must be difficult for children to access, meaning it should be located inside or only releasable with finger strength.
- Alternatively, there are clamp or tension locks that do not require drilling.

A simple solution is tall plastic latches mounted at the bottom of the door. These are relatively straightforward and can be slid open and closed as needed.

Hey Sepega,

I used to have similar problems—my little whirlwinds really opened every cabinet! 😅 What worked well for me were these small plastic drawer and cabinet locks with adhesive pads.

They are super easy to stick on, keep the doors closed, and you can still open them easily yourself (with a bit of finesse). And all without screws or drilling.

I prefer simple solutions—maybe this could work for you too. 🙂

I think it’s great that you’re addressing the topic of child-proof doors with BESTA so thoroughly! 😄 I have two kids myself and faced exactly the same issue. It’s really important that the solution is sturdy but not annoying to use every day.

What helped me were clamp locks that you simply attach to the edge of the door. No tools are needed, but the kids still can’t get to them.

My recommendation:
- Easy to install without drilling
- Kids can’t easily access it
- Can be quickly removed when the child is older

This has significantly reduced the mess in our living room!

Hello,

I would like to add that some adhesive models, especially those intended for permanent use, can leave residues when removed, which can be unpleasant on painted IKEA BESTA doors.

So, if appearance is important to you, I recommend testing them first on an inconspicuous spot.

Also, some magnetic locks only work if the door is thin enough and the magnet is strong enough. This is often not the case with thicker doors.

For BESTA doors, simple clamp mechanisms or flexible straps attached on the inside—without the need for tools—are the most practical options if you want to avoid drilling.

I would also pay attention to the durability of the fasteners. Some cheaper models lose their grip over time, especially if children use them frequently.

Therefore, it’s better to invest in a higher-quality product that can be opened and closed multiple times without getting damaged.

Also, if you really want to avoid any marks, flexible silicone straps with suction cups that attach from the inside can help. These are suitable for lighter use but are very easy to install without any issues.