Symptoms
- Stand rocks or shifts when touched
- Shelves feel loose or separated at the sides
- TV or stand feels unstable, especially side to side
Likely causes
- CommonLoose cam-lock or dowel fastenersFlat-pack furniture uses cam locks that can loosen over time or from moving the piece.
- CommonUneven feet or leveling glidesMissing or unadjusted leveling feet cause a persistent wobble on hard floors.
- PossibleBack panel not properly securedThe thin back panel often adds most of the lateral stability; a loose one increases wobble.
- Less commonOverloaded shelf causing sag or separationHeavy components can stress shelf joints beyond their rating.
What to do
- Check that the unit is standing on a flat surface and adjust any leveling feet.
- Tighten all visible cam locks, screws, and bolts, especially at side panel and shelf joints.
- Confirm the back panel is fully screwed or stapled in place, since it adds structural rigidity.
- If a joint has separated, apply wood glue and clamp it, or re-drive the connecting dowel/cam.
- Consider adding an anti-tip wall strap for safety, especially if a TV sits on top.
- Redistribute heavy components evenly and avoid exceeding the stand's listed weight capacity.
Tools and parts
- Allen wrench (usually included with flat-pack furniture)
- Screwdriver
- Wood glue
Furniture anti-tip wall strap kitSearch: “furniture anti tip strap kit”
Cam lock and dowel fastener setSearch: “furniture cam lock fasteners”
When to call a pro
If particleboard panels are crumbling around the fasteners, replacement is often more cost-effective than repeated repair.
Safety
Use caution
A wobbly TV stand with a TV on top is a tip-over risk, especially around kids; secure it with an anti-tip strap until fixed.