Unfinished dressers and tip-over: what CPSC says
The federal rule for dressers and chests, and the anchor line from CPSC.
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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 dresser whether or not it is finished.
The federal rule
CPSC says the STURDY law directs it to make a rule for clothing storage units, and that the requirements, at 16 CFR part 1261, apply to clothing storage units manufactured after September 1, 2023. Part 1261 says it is "intended to protect children up to 72 months of age from tip-over-related death or injury."
What CPSC counts as a clothing storage unit
CPSC says a clothing storage unit is a "furniture item with drawers and/or hinged doors intended for the storage of clothing typical with bedroom furniture" that is free-standing, at least 27 inches tall, at least 30 pounds, and has at least 3.2 cubic feet of enclosed storage. CPSC lists dressers, chests, chests of drawers, armoires, and bureaus as examples.
Ask the maker
The rule sets duties for makers and sellers, not buyers. Ask the maker or seller about the anti-tip device and warning labels that came with the dresser. We do not say any dresser falls under the rule or meets it.
This is general information, not legal or safety advice.
Sources: CPSC, Clothing Storage Units (Business Guidance); eCFR, 16 CFR Part 1261, Safety Standard for Clothing Storage Units; CPSC, Anchor It.
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.
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Drawers, doors, shelves: anchor.
