Safe Shelves - They Do Exist

Most childproofing and home safety sources advise parents to anchor shelving units directly to walls with bolts or straps. This is a good way to secure the full unit, but safety concerns remain. Often, the individual shelves are not secured and can be flipped or pulled out by a curious toddler, and shelves beginning at floor level just beg to be climbed! You can solve these problems--and add a decorative twist--in a number of ways.

Reconfigure Built-In and Full Wall Shelf Units
If the shelves are permanent in the unit, be sure to move fragile, heavy or dangerous items to higher levels, or out of the unit entirely if your child is prone to climb. Storing a selection of toys or decor that can be handled on the lower two or three shelves may divert attention from the upper shelves and reduce the urge to climb. If shelves are removable, remove the lower two or three shelves, leaving an opening about three feet high at the bottom of the shelf unit. Create stylish storage with a mix of decorative storage baskets and boxes, and add durable decor items. Even a few of your child's toys and books can be used for a whimsical touch.

Adding Smart Space with Wall-Mounted Shelves
If you don't have enough space to display fragile, heavy or dangerous decor out of your child's reach, consider adding wall-mounted shelves.

Multi-shelf units that mount directly to the wall are ideal for out of reach storage. Ready-made units are available in a variety of sizes and styles, or you can fashion a shelf unit using inexpensive shelving materials found at any hardware store.

Hint! One secret to making less-expensive bracket-style shelving more attractive is painting the brackets the same color as the wall on which they're mounted. Then cover the shelves (unfinished wood or melamine) tightly in fabric, or attach a pre-made decorative edge using finishing nails and/or glue, then paint. Easy and decorative!

Ledge-Style Shelves
Ledge shelves easily install directly to the wall, out of reach to eliminate climbing concerns. Ledge shelves are available in many sizes and styles to complement any decor, and add interest just about anywhere. Try one over a window; stagger, stack or align three on a spacious wall; create a tiered mantle by stacking two or three above your fireplace; or embellish the walls of a wide hallway with a collection of different styles and sizes. Check out our selection of stylish KidSmart wall-mounted shelves and sconces.


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