While using a dresser as a TV stand may be convenient and save space, there is a multitude of reasons why this is not advised. Let's go into the possible problems and risks of using a dresser as a TV stand and offer a better solution to those in need.
Safety Issues
Dressers are designed to hold daily grooming. Their supporting ability and stability cannot bear such heavy objects as a TV, and it is highly dangerous to use a dresser as a TV stand.
Unstable Structure
The dresser lacks the structural integrity needed to support the TV safely. Under normal use, such as opening and closing drawers and placing items on top, it is so easy for the center of gravity to shift and cause the TV to wobble. If it is not well fixed, any careless collision might make the TV fall with a loud crash and crush some things.
Child Safety Risks
The heavy TV combined with an unstable dresser can be very dangerous. Children are always naturally inquisitive, wanting to climb up and reach towards the TV for various reasons. In many instances, even when the dresser does not tip over, the TV might slide down, leading to fatal results.
What's more, the dresser was not designed with safety features to prevent it from tipping over, and it is inherently unstable, which increases the potential danger. This is a risk that is not worth taking, especially since there are many safer ways to install a TV.
Functional limitations
The dresser is solid and would seem appropriate to be used as a TV stand, but a few necessary functional limitations will impact your viewing experience and the life of the electronic devices.
Insufficient Ventilation
Dressers can never provide appropriate ventilation for the electronic equipment. The electronic equipment such as TV, stereo, and Blu-ray player generates heat when it is turned on.Β
When electronic equipment is placed in a small, closed space like a dresser, heat can't escape. This can lead to overheating, which shortens the lifespan of your devices and causes problems like freezing and crashing.
Inappropriate Height
Most of these dressers are not at the right height for comfortably watching TV. Using a dresser as a TV stand for a long time will mean that you will have to keep your neck up and down while watching TV, which is extremely uncomfortable and will probably result in neck pain and fatigue after some time.Β
This should be a relaxing activity, but because of the wrong height, it makes you feel uncomfortable, which greatly reduces the viewing experience and takes away most of the fun.
Lack of Necessary Functions
Here's the thing: unlike a proper TV stand, a dresser just doesn't cut it for organizing cables or storing your media gear. Plus, it's not great for keeping your TV accessories in order. In daily use, the various cables and data lines become entangled and messy, which is not only unsightly but also difficult to manage and may pose a safety hazard.
The thick front panels of most dressers block remote control signals, which makes the work of controlling devices very difficult. Besides, there is no dedicated place for cable boxes, game consoles, and other media devices, so things can just be left lying around-maddening.
Alternative Solutions
This simple solution of using a dresser for a TV stand is riddled with all sorts of problems. Here are some very practical solutions; once you consider these, you won't have to worry about a thing.
Dedicated TV stand
For a great experience in entertainment, look no more than a dedicated TV stand. A well-designed TV stand keeps the weight of the TV well-supported and is also a good place for your game consoles, stereos, remotes, and other accessories.
These TV stands are at the right height for comfortable viewing-usually 24-30 inches from the floor and often have integral cable management to keep messy power and data cables tidy. For the best from a stand, measure the width of your TV when selecting it, and add 6-8 inches to each side.
Related reading: TV Stand Size Guide
Wall-mounted TVs
Hanging your TV on the wall is a stylish and practical option that frees up valuable floor space and makes your living room appear more open. You can set the screen at the perfect height considering the position of the sofa and armchairs for comfortable viewing. Most of these wall-mounted stands have functions of adjustment, meaning you can easily tilt or rotate the screen for the best angle.
All that is required underneath it is a sleek, floating display of chunky furniture. If needed, one can easily complement this with a modern floating TV stand underneath for neat organization of things like cable boxes and game consoles.
Bonus: Check This Well-Made Fireplace TV Stand
- Stunning modern aesthetics with premium gold accents and elegant tempered glass doors, creating an upscale look that enhances your interior design
- Versatile entertainment solution supporting TVs up to 85 inches while offering extensive storage through adjustable shelving and cabinets
- Advanced 42-inch electric fireplace featuring 16 flame colors and 5 brightness levels, controlled via touchscreen and remote for personalized comfort
- Environmentally conscious construction using eco-friendly manufactured wood, supporting up to 80 lbs on the tabletop and 20 lbs per shelf
- Smart temperature management with adjustable settings from 64β to 82β and convenient timer function for 1-9 hours
- A perfect blend of form and function, offering both practical storage solutions and ambient lighting through realistic flame effects
- Space-efficient design that consolidates entertainment, storage, and heating into one sophisticated unit, making it ideal for modern living spaces
Final Thoughts
Using a dresser as a TV stand is pretty risky. First of all, the dresser has a high center of gravity, and if you bump it by accident or pull it after putting the TV on it, it may fall over with a loud crash, hurting yourself or your children.
Nowadays, TVs are getting thinner and thinner, and their bases are pretty small, meaning they could easily fall over if they are shaken lightly.
If you need to use the dresser as a TV stand, take the trouble to firmly fix the dresser and TV to the back wall so that it's stable, and you can rest assured.
Read More
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