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How to secure free-standing furniture

A room with two sofas, a painting, and a half-door storage cabinet by a heat pump.

Overview

Securing your furniture with anti-tipping devices is a simple and cost-effective way to protect your family and home. Anti-tipping devices help prevent accidents, they help keep children and pets safe, and they also help to minimise damage if you live in an earthquake-prone area.

There are a variety of anti-tipping devices to choose from, including furniture straps or brackets, suitable for anchoring ovens, bookcases, entertainment centres and more. Check out this handy step-by-step guide to learn more about this easy D.I.Y. project.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

 

Steps

1Mark the installation location

Start by marking out where you’d like to install an anti-tipping device. Use a stud finder or visually inspect the wall to find wall studs or other anchoring points if studs aren’t available. These are essential for securely attaching the anti-tipping device.

To use your stud finder, turn it on and calibrate it if needed. Place it flat against the wall and move it slowly horizontally or vertically to scan for studs. Mark the location when it signals a stud and where you want to mount your anti-tipping device.

Stud finder to find wall studs.

2Mark the wall and pre-drill holes

Measure the distance from the back of the item to the wall where the anti-tipping device will go. Use a pencil and a level to mark the position on the wall, making sure all your markings are straight and even. Next, pre-drill pilot holes into the marked positions on the wall using a drill bit that is slightly smaller than the screws provided for the device. This will prevent the wall from splitting when you install the screws.

It’s best to avoid areas that require a wall plug. However, if this isn’t possible, screw the wall plug into your pre-drilled holes before screwing your anti-tipping device into the wall.

Green Bunnings hammer
Tip: You can find anti-tipping devices (like an offset mounting bracket) that will give enough clearance for the plug and your furniture.
Drilling holes in the wall.

3Attach the anti-tipping bracket or strap

Review the manufacturer’s instructions for your chosen anti-tipping device and follow the installation steps. Most devices will involve screwing a bracket into the back of the furniture or appliance.
Installing the screws in the furniture

4Position your furniture and attach it to the wall

Now that you’ve installed the bracket onto your furniture, attach the anti-tipping device to the wall with the screws provided into the pilot holes you drilled earlier. Make sure it’s anchored firmly, sitting flush against the wall.
Installing the anchor with provided screws and pre-drilled holes.

5Test the stability

Position your furniture against the wall. Test out the stability by giving it a gentle push or tug to make sure it’s secure. If it feels securely anchored, you’re all done!
Installing the anchor with provided screws and pre-drilled holes.

6Keep in mind...

  • Remember to check the manufacturer’s instructions for weight limits and specifications of each anti-tipping device you use. You don't want to overload them, as it could damage the device and possibly lead to your furniture tipping.
  • Arrange your furniture away from busy spots where kids or pets like to play. This will help reduce the chances of any climbing or playtime mishaps.
  • Regularly check your anti-tipping device and its attachments to make sure they're snug and in tip-top shape. If anything seems worn or damaged, replace as needed.
Securing wood furniture with furniture straps.

7Ready to get started?

Shop our range of anti-tipping devices online or in-store.

Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.