Hello everyone, I am looking for effective ways to childproof the Ikea Besta shelving unit. My children are still small and curious, and I want to prevent them from getting their fingers caught in the doors or drawers, as well as stop the unit from tipping over if they climb on it. Additionally, I am looking for tips to keep hazardous items or cables inside the unit out of reach of children. What proven safety measures are available for the Besta system that are stable and long-lasting without completely ruining its appearance? Thanks in advance for your experiences and suggestions!
Certainly, Pin32! Here is my step-by-step guide for magnetic child safety locks for the Ikea Besta:
- First, you should completely remove the doors to make the installation easier.
- The magnetic locks are mounted on the inside edge of the door—usually screwed on or attached with strong adhesive tape, depending on the model.
- The counterpart is fixed to the furniture frame so that the lock engages perfectly.
- Important: Make sure the magnets are not so strong that opening the doors requires excessive force for adults, but still strong enough to prevent children from easily opening them.
- Test the system several times after installation, especially using the amount of force children would typically apply.
A common mistake is fastening the locks too tightly, which can cause paint damage or make the material brittle over time. Some people use small felt or plastic pads placed between the lock and the surface to avoid damage.
If you want, I can also recommend a few products we have found effective here.
- First, you should completely remove the doors to make the installation easier.
- The magnetic locks are mounted on the inside edge of the door—usually screwed on or attached with strong adhesive tape, depending on the model.
- The counterpart is fixed to the furniture frame so that the lock engages perfectly.
- Important: Make sure the magnets are not so strong that opening the doors requires excessive force for adults, but still strong enough to prevent children from easily opening them.
- Test the system several times after installation, especially using the amount of force children would typically apply.
A common mistake is fastening the locks too tightly, which can cause paint damage or make the material brittle over time. Some people use small felt or plastic pads placed between the lock and the surface to avoid damage.
If you want, I can also recommend a few products we have found effective here.
LAURE-TA schrieb:
The magnetic locks are installed on the inside of the door end – usually either screwed in or attached with strong adhesive tape, depending on the model. Very helpful, thanks! Are these magnetic locks also removable without leaving any residue if I change my mind? I want to avoid my Besta shelf getting unsightly holes or stains after a few years.Pin32 schrieb:
Are these magnetic locks removable without leaving residues if I change my mind? That depends on the product, but many modern magnetic door locks use screw fittings. These leave small, narrow holes that can be relatively easily filled and repaired when repainting. Adhesive solutions may leave residues on the paint or surface, but usually they can be removed with some heat (hairdryer) and careful peeling. If appearance is important to you, I would recommend screw-mounted systems, as they are more stable and durable.
liRaul49 schrieb:
Just use the original IKEA wall anchors; they are specially designed for the furniture and very reliable. Good tip, liRaul49! Does anyone have experience with whether Besta can be securely attached to different wall types (for example, drywall vs. concrete) in the same way? Are there specific anchors or installation methods you would recommend to ensure the tip-over protection really holds?
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