ᐅ How can I prevent children from fully pulling out IKEA BRIMNES drawers?

Hello everyone,

I have the IKEA Brimnes piece of furniture with several drawers at home, which actually offers a lot of storage space. Unfortunately, my children keep pulling the drawers out completely, which creates a risk of them falling or getting injured.

I am interested in how to effectively prevent children from pulling the drawers all the way out without constantly having to say "Don’t do that" – which hasn’t been very effective so far. Are there mechanical solutions that can be installed, or behavioral strategies that work in practice?

I look forward to your tips, experiences, or any advice on safety measures specific to the BRIMNES models, as these are constructed somewhat differently compared to other dressers. Thank you in advance!

A proven method is the use of so-called drawer locks, specifically child safety locks, which prevent drawers from being fully pulled out. These are usually designed as a brake or latch and allow the drawer to open only partially. For IKEA BRIMNES, for example, plastic or metal devices that are attached inside on the sides are suitable.

Additionally, I recommend securing the furniture itself with wall anchors or restraint devices to prevent tipping accidents in case the drawer is fully pulled out.

From a behavioral perspective, a clear and consistent rule of consequences is helpful. Explain to children why drawers should only be opened partially, combined with an age-appropriate sanction if this rule is disregarded.

Overall, a combination of mechanical safety measures and education is most effective.

I understand your dilemma very well, as I have experienced the same with my little daughter. It is really difficult to convince them against something they find exciting.

Sometimes it helps to offer children alternatives – for example, their own small cabinet or box where they can take things out as much as they want without causing any damage. This relieves the main dresser, but the children feel taken seriously and less rebellious.

In addition, I have found that attention and calm conversations about the dangers are more effective than strict bans. So maybe a combination of both: mechanical safety measures plus actively involving the children in setting the rules.

Mechanically install simple drawer dampers. These prevent drawers from being pulled out completely.

Alternatively, install clamp devices on the inside sides.

If you are handy: Screw a small strip to the bottom of the drawer, which then clamps onto the cabinet frame.

I can relate to this – with us, the children kept pulling the drawers all the way out. This not only creates a mess but can also be really dangerous.

I used child safety locks on our furniture and also repeatedly explained that the furniture could be dangerous. Understanding improves slowly, but this really helps if you are patient.

Sometimes it’s also helpful to place the furniture so that it’s not easily accessible to children when you are not in the room. This also reduces the risk.

FLONE41 schrieb:
Sometimes it helps to offer children alternatives – for example, their own small cabinet or box where they can take things out as much as they want without causing any damage. This relieves the main dresser, but the children feel taken seriously and less rebellious.

Haha, I have to smile because that actually works well. Sometimes the solution is to give the little rascals a stage where they are the main actors – whether it’s their own dresser or a basket full of favorite toys. This way they have fun and the BRIMNES stays intact.

If you’re a bit handy: I once installed a small rubber stopper on a drawer that only lets it open as far as it’s roughly safe. That was really practical and basically a DIY drawer stop.

And honestly: sometimes you have to give in a little and take the pressure off. The more pressure you put on them, the more likely they are to do it just for that reason. Finding a good balance is key!