IKEA has once again issued a recall for its MALM dresser line after reports emerged of an eight-year-old child tragically losing their life in May due to being trapped beneath the dresser during naptime. This recall follows an earlier announcement made in 2016 concerning the same product line. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), over 90 children have suffered injuries related to these dressers, with the company receiving 186 reports of incidents involving tip-overs. Initially, seven child fatalities were reported in conjunction with the dressers; this recent incident brings the total to eight.
Models Included in the Recall
- MALM 3-drawer
- MALM 4-drawer
- MALM 5-drawer
- MALM 6-drawer
Parents who own a MALM dresser that is not anchored to the wall should take immediate action. To determine if your dresser is part of the recall, visit the IKEA website. If your dresser is included, the CPSC advises that consumers cease using any recalled chest or dresser that is not securely anchored to the wall and move it to an area inaccessible to children. IKEA offers two options for affected customers: a refund or a complimentary wall-anchoring kit. Additionally, the company can arrange for the recalled dressers to be picked up at no cost or provide a one-time free in-home wall-anchoring service upon request. More information can be found on IKEA’s website, including details for dressers manufactured prior to January 2002, which may qualify for partial store credit.
The fact that eight children have lost their lives due to a single line of furniture is beyond comprehension. However, it’s critical to recognize that the risk of tip-overs is not exclusive to IKEA dressers. Any heavy or large piece of furniture or appliance that isn’t secured poses a potential danger. The U.S. CPSC reports that every hour, three children are injured from falling furniture, and every two weeks, a child dies because of unsecured televisions or furniture. Alarmingly, while infants up to two years old account for 35% of these fatalities, children aged three to nine represent 39% of the incidents. This reissued recall serves as a stark reminder of the necessity to anchor all heavy electronics, appliances, and furniture in homes with children.
Further Reading
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In summary, IKEA’s reissued recall highlights the dangers associated with unsecured furniture, particularly for children. It is imperative for parents to ensure that all heavy items are anchored properly to prevent tragic accidents.