Amazon and Walmart Face Criticism Over Unsafe Dressers: Consumer Reports Findings
A Troubling Safety Gap in Dressers
Amazon, Walmart, and Wayfair are among the retailers that continue to sell dressers that pose a risk of tipping over, raising concerns for U.S. households with small children, according to findings released this week by Consumer Reports. A year after new furniture safety standards were implemented, tests by the consumer advocacy group revealed that while newly built dressers meet stability requirements, older models remain problematic.
Test Results of Dressers
Out of 12 dressers tested, two older models, built prior to September 2023, failed safety tests. The tests replicated scenarios where a child pulls out drawers and climbs or hangs from them. According to the federal Sturdy Act, unanchored dressers must remain upright for at least 10 seconds when a 60-pound weight is placed in an open top drawer. Sadly, older dressers do not comply with these important safety measures.
New Rule and Ongoing Concerns
The new rule, applicable only to dressers manufactured after Sept. 1, 2023, allows producers to sell older models. This loophole has caused significant concern among parents and child safety advocates, who are pushing for stricter regulations to prevent potential accidents.
This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.