How to Anchor a Metal Shelf So it Won’t Tip - Wall Anchor Strapping Solution

I built some metal shelves in a spare room at my Mom’s house but was concerned that they might tip over and crush me or another person if pulled at the top. At first, I went online and tried to find wall anchors made specifically for shelves but nothing really came up. Most of the solutions had to screw to something (like the wood bars of a dresser or shelves) or had stickers on one side (for use with flat screen televisions). Eventually, I remembered that there is metal and plastic strapping with holes in it that plumbers and electricians use to hang pipes and other ductwork. It’s inexpensive and easy to adjust. Using some of this material I anchored the top shelf at two points and used dry wall screws going into the studs to make sure it would stay stable. This solution was affordable, looks pretty nice and did not take much time. I hope it helps you if you’re in a similar situation with any kind of mobile shelving or the Nexel Chrome Wire shelves like I was using (especially if you’re stacking heavy stuff on the top shelf way up high). I used two straps instead of one to emphasize safety (since I used the plastic straps) and believe that this will also decrease any twisting of the shelves if one side is pulled. I also used felt pads on the back of the shelves so that they wouldn’t rub on the wall and mark it up when items were added and removed over time (which might cause vibration and movement).

- Metal pin strap, hanger strap, anchor straps (stronger): amzn.to/2jGdW0v
- Plastic polypropylene pipe strapping (more flexible): amzn.to/2ipEbXN
- Stud Finder: amzn.to/2jhthrr
- Drywall Screws: amzn.to/2jgLa9S
- Washers: amzn.to/2im8jbC