Anti-Tip TV Straps: Do They Really Prevent Accidents?

Quick answer

Yes, properly installed anti-tip TV straps significantly reduce the risk of a flat screen TV tipping over. However, no strap can prevent every accident—especially if the TV is not secured to a stable surface or if the straps are not used as directed. The KidCo Anti-Tip TV Straps are a reliable tool, but they work best as part of a broader childproofing strategy.

What the KidCo Anti-Tip TV Straps actually do

The KidCo Anti-Tip TV Straps are made from high-quality nylon and include two straps per package, plus an assortment of screws for most TV models. The design is straightforward: you attach one end of the strap to the TV and the other to a wall or sturdy piece of furniture. This creates a physical tether that limits forward tipping when a child pulls on the TV or the stand.

Because the straps are adjustable and come with multiple screw options, they can fit a wide range of flat screen TVs. The nylon material is strong and resistant to fraying, which adds durability over time. The package includes enough hardware to secure one TV with two straps, giving you a backup or allowing you to secure a second device.

However, the straps cannot compensate for an unstable TV stand or a surface that itself can tip. If the furniture the TV sits on is not anchored, the whole assembly could still fall. The straps also do not protect against side-to-side or backward tipping, so placement and anchoring of the entire entertainment center matter.

Where the myth falls short

A common belief is that once you install anti-tip straps, your TV is completely safe. In reality, straps are only one layer of prevention. They work best when the TV is on a low, stable stand that is also secured to the wall. The KidCo straps are designed for flat screen TVs, not for older CRT models or unusually shaped devices. If your TV does not have a flat back or a compatible mounting point, the straps may not attach securely.

Another misconception is that one strap is enough. The KidCo package includes two straps, and using both provides redundancy. If one strap fails or is not tightened correctly, the second can still hold. Parents should also check the straps periodically for wear or loosening, especially after moving the TV or adjusting the stand.

Our verdicts

• Claim: Straps alone prevent all tip-overs: False. The straps only prevent forward tipping when properly installed on a stable surface. They do not protect against side-to-side falls or furniture that is not anchored. Always anchor both the TV and the furniture it sits on.
• Claim: One strap is enough for a TV: Not recommended. The KidCo package includes two straps for a reason. Using both provides redundancy and better stability. Use both straps as intended.
• Claim: Anti-tip straps work on any TV: Mostly true for flat screen TVs, but the straps require a flat back or compatible mounting point. They are not designed for CRT or unusually shaped TVs. Check your TV's back panel before buying.

Product facts at a glance

• Anti-Tip TV Straps: Keep your home safe with the KidCo Anti-Tip TV Straps, expertly designed to prevent flat screen TVs from tipping over. Constructed from high-quality nylon, these sturdy straps offer peace of mind in homes with young children or pets. Each package contains two versatile straps, along with an assortment of screws that ensure a secure fit for most television models. The nylon construction and included hardware mean you can install the straps on most flat screen TVs without buying extra parts. Two straps per pack let you secure one TV with a backup or protect two smaller devices.