A simple check to see if your furniture anchor is properly installed: push the top of the furniture forward gently. It should resist and not move more than an inch from the wall. If it moves, the anchor isn't doing its job. Recheck every few months as screws can loosen over time.
Related Terms
A strap or bracket that secures heavy furniture to the wall to prevent tip-overs. Dressers, bookshelves, and TVs are the biggest risks. Most come with simple L-brackets or nylon straps that screw into the furniture and wall stud. You can get earthquake-rated ones for extra security.
An L-shaped metal bracket that connects the top of a piece of furniture to the wall stud behind it. It's the most secure method for preventing furniture tip-overs. Many furniture retailers now include them for free with dressers and bookshelves.
A fastener used to attach furniture straps or brackets to walls, especially drywall. For safety devices, always screw into wall studs when possible. Toggle bolts or other heavy-duty anchors work when a stud isn't available, but they're not as strong.