Babyproofing question..... bookshelves??

Question

I have a question about bookshelves. I have a LOT of books, and my last apartment had bookshelves built into the wall. This new one doesn't, so I am planning to buy a couple sets of those dorm room bookshelves they sell at Target. They have some that are smaller, some that are mid-height, and some that are tall.

My question is, what is the actual danger that a toddler can pull the book shelves onto himself?? Should I get the shorter shelves, just in case? Has anyone thought of this before?

My son is only five months old right now, but we are living in a one bedroom apartment, so it isn't really possible to keep them in a room he doesn't have access to.

Good advice would be appreciated.

Answer 1

You can buy straps t oattach any size bookshelves to the wall.  I would also say a good rule of thumb is if the bookshelf is too large and heavy for you to move a toddler can not move it either

Answer 2

The very real danger is that the child can pull the bookshelf donw on themselves causing serious injury or even death.  The height is not the issue...this can happen with ANY size bookshelf.  You need to buy what are called teathers, aka anti tip straps (they sell these at Target as well in the infant department, or you can find them at babies r us).  These attach the bookshelf to the wall and prevent tipping.  You should also teather your tv and dressers.  Once your child starts pulling up the danger of pulling furniture over is great...even though your child is small it only takes a little pressure to put a piece of furniture out of balance...

Answer 3

I would suggest you do secure the shelving with a no-tip furniture secure (link below) or something like it.  Yes, shelves have infinite appeal to kids to climb on, and often, especially if you have carpeting, they can be tippy.

Answer 4

The straps from one step ahead are a great idea (see link in one of the answers above).  I bought tall (72") bookshelves a while ago at Staples (the ones you assemble yourself) and they came with a short piece of nylon webbing and a few extra screws.  Simple attach the webbing to the back top of the case and to the wall.  It's designed as an earthquake saftey measure, but serves the same purpose as the one step ahead thing and may be included free with the book shelves.

Good luck.

Answer 5

Well all bookshelves run the risk of coming down on top of a busy toddler. My husband screwed the back of the shelf into the wall. It make them much more sturdy.

Answer 6

i would get the shorter shelves.  my oldest at 16 months old pulled a 27 inch color tv down off the tv stand.  i would go the shorter the better

Answer 7

I don't think shorter bookshelves would help, because they could still fall over.  I would attach them to the wall using a wall anchor.    It's hard to say whether or not it is a real danger, because it depends on the center of gravity and shape of the bookshelves.  But like most babyproofing, it's usually better safe than sorry.