ᐅ How can I make Malm furniture child-safe?

Created on: 27 Nov 2022 08:37
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DAN-DUDLEY
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DAN-DUDLEY
27 Nov 2022 08:37
Hello everyone,

I have a specific question regarding child safety with furniture, especially the "Malm" type from IKEA. These drawers and dressers are quite popular, but I am concerned about how to make them child-safe. I’m less interested in general safety advice and more in precise, practical solutions to prevent tipping and to protect little fingers from getting pinched or caught.

Additionally, I’m interested in measures that can prevent toddlers from opening them on their own, without having to lock each cabinet separately all the time.

Has anyone had experience with this type of furniture? Are there specific child safety devices, locks, or recommended tools or fittings that can be easily implemented? I would appreciate concrete tips on practical solutions, possibly with pros and cons. Thank you in advance!
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toril
27 Nov 2022 11:03
There are several aspects to consider regarding Malm furniture to enhance child safety:

1. Tip-over protection: Malm dressers and drawer units are known to tip over relatively easily when children climb on them or pull heavily and unevenly. To prevent this, IKEA itself recommends using the included wall anchors. These should definitely be installed. Additionally, there are high-quality chains or straps available as retrofit solutions that securely fix the furniture to the wall.

2. Drawer locks: To prevent unwanted opening, child safety locks for drawers are available in various types — from clamp-on and adhesive to magnetic solutions. Magnetic locks are discreet and reliable but require a special key to open.

3. Pinch protection: To protect children's fingers, drawers can be fitted with dampers that prevent them from slamming shut quickly. These are available pre-made and are often easy to install.

It is important to ensure stability and practicality in everyday use with all safety measures so that no risk arises from unstable or improperly installed safeguards.
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Katan
28 Nov 2022 14:19
toril schrieb:
Tip-over protection: Malm dressers and drawer units are known for tipping over relatively easily

Exactly! Here’s a tip: make sure to securely fasten the dressers to the wall. It’s not complicated at all, and it gives you so much peace of mind. My little rascal tried everything, but nothing tipped over. To open the drawers, I installed magnetic locks—they’re barely visible, and the little guy is completely locked out.
toril schrieb:
magnetic locks are discreet and reliable

Plus, they’re really practical. No hassle with external latches that get in the way during visits or quick access. Oh, and to prevent finger pinching, I fitted soft-close dampers on the drawers. They work great, make the drawers feel much higher quality, and eliminate the slamming noise. A win-win 😉

If you’re somewhat handy, all of this can be done with minimal effort. Good luck!
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nonpra
29 Nov 2022 09:46
Wall mounting is mandatory.
Magnetic locks are the best solution for drawers.
Finger pinch protection can be achieved with dampers.
All available and easy to install.