Schakowsky Demands Answers on IKEA Dresser Recall

After three reports of toddler deaths in IKEA Malm dresser tip-over accidents, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky called for a full recall. In June, the Consumer Product Safety Commission and IKEA announced a recall, which included stopping the sale of unstable dressers and providing repair kits or refunds for consumers. Congresswoman Schakowsky also introduced the Stop Tip-overs of Unstable, Risky Dressers on Youth (STURDY) Act to improve the industry standard for dresser stability.

WASHINGTON, DC- Today, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky demanded answers on the progress of IKEA’s dresser recall after reports of low consumer response rates and delays in providing repair kits when requested. In a letter to the President of IKEA North America, she requested information on the remedies provided to consumers who bought unsafe dressers and the company’s efforts to improve dresser safety. The Congresswoman released the following statement regarding her letter:

“IKEA’s actions to get unstable dressers out of their customers’ homes have been underwhelming,” said Congresswoman Schakowsky “Despite this being one of the largest recalls in history, only a tiny fraction of IKEA customers have received refunds or repair kits. In the meantime, more individuals have been injured, and many others remain at risk. With a total of seven deaths being linked to IKEA dressers so far, IKEA must intensify and improve its efforts.

“I encourage everyone – especially if you have children around the home this holiday season – to take steps to stop tip-over accidents. If you own one of the recalled IKEA models, you are eligible for a refund. You can also help prevent tip-overs by ensuring that your dressers, bookcases, and other furniture are safely anchored to the wall. To check whether you own a recalled dresser or other product you can go to https://www.recalls.gov”

A PDF of the letter can be found here.

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