Unfinished bookcases and shelves: anchor them
Why CPSC says to anchor furniture with shelves, and what its dresser rule leaves out.
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Anchor it
CPSC says: "Anchoring all furniture with drawers, doors, and shelves to the wall prevents tip-over injuries and deaths." Follow the maker's instructions. That holds for a bookcase whether or not it is finished.
Bookcases and the dresser rule
CPSC's clothing storage unit guidance lists bookcases among products that are not within the scope of that rule. CPSC's anchor line still covers all furniture with shelves.
Ask the maker
Ask the maker or seller whether an anchoring kit comes with the bookcase, and follow the maker's instructions for it. We do not say any bookcase or kit suits your wall.
Read the description
Words such as solid wood, hardwood, veneer, or a wood species in a listing are the maker's description, not ours. We do not check them. Ask the maker what the piece is made of.
This is general information, not legal or safety advice.
Sources: CPSC, Anchor It; CPSC, Clothing Storage Units (Business Guidance).
FAQ
General information only. Follow every product label and increase ventilation when you finish, as EPA advises. State fire and health agencies warn that rags used with some oil-based stains and finishes can catch fire on their own: never leave them in a pile, and dry and dispose of them as the label and your local fire officials direct. CPSC says to anchor furniture with drawers, doors, and shelves to the wall. In an emergency, call 911.
Next: anchoring
Drawers, doors, shelves: anchor.
