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Newsletter? More like love-letter with the best of design, interiors and behind-the-scenes fun.

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Toppling Furniture Safety

Toppling Furniture Safety


  1. INTRO
  2. Freestanding furniture can pose a serious safety risk if not installed and used correctly. Items such as bedside tables, tallboys, consoles, credenzas, cabinets and shelving units may tip or topple if climbed on, pulled, or unevenly loaded.

    In Australia, toppling furniture has caused serious injuries and fatalities – particularly among young children – making proper installation and use essential.

  3. Understanding the Risk
  4. UNDERSTANDING THE RISK

    Furniture may become unstable when:

    • Drawers or doors are opened, shifting weight forward
    • Weight is unevenly distributed (top-heavy storage)
    • Items are placed on uneven or soft surfaces
    • Children climb or pull themselves up using furniture

    Tall or freestanding pieces are most susceptible, especially when not secured.

  5. Securing Your Furniture
  6. SECURING YOUR FURNITURE

    The most effective way to reduce the risk of toppling is to anchor furniture to a wall.

    We recommend:

    • Always installing the provided wall anchoring kit (where supplied)
    • Using appropriate fixings for your wall type (e.g. plaster, brick, concrete)
    • Ensuring furniture sits flush against the wall on a level surface
    • Seeking professional installation advice if unsure

    If your furniture is not supplied with an anchoring kit, suitable hardware is widely available from hardware retailers.

  7. Safe Use at Home
  8. SAFE USE AT HOME

    Simple everyday decisions can significantly reduce risk:

    • Place heavier items in lower drawers or shelves
    • Avoid placing heavy or climb-attracting objects (such as lamps, décor or electronics) on top
    • Consider drawer locks or safety devices in family homes
    • Ensure televisions and heavy objects are also secured
    • DO NOT ALLOW CHILDREN TO CLIMB OR HANG FROM FURNITURE

    Furniture becomes more stable when weight is kept low and evenly distributed.

  9. Placement & Installation
  10. PLACEMENT & INSTALLATION

    • Position furniture on a flat, stable surface
    • Avoid placing items on thick or uneven carpet where stability may be reduced
    • Keep furniture away from areas where children may be tempted to climb
    • Ensure adequate clearance so drawers and doors can open safely without overbalancing

  11. For Renters
  12. FOR RENTERS

    If you are renting, speak with your landlord or agent about installing wall anchors. In many Australian states, tenants are permitted to secure furniture for safety, provided the property is returned to its original condition.

  13. Our Commitment
  14. OUR COMMITMENT

    In line with Australian product safety requirements, furniture suppliers are required to provide safety warnings and guidance to help reduce the risk of toppling.

    Where applicable, our furniture is designed with stability in mind and may include safety information or anchoring provisions. We strongly recommend following all provided instructions prior to use.

  15. Need Assistance?
  16. NEED ASSISTANCE?

    If you have any questions about installation or securing your furniture, please contact our team – we’re here to help.