Babyproofing a home is the relatively simple process of hiding, covering, or otherwise blocking babies and toddlers from things that could be dangerous. Kids are curious by nature, so letting them explore their curiosity in a safe home helps to alleviate worry and reduce risks.
Cover Outlets to Babyproof Your Home
Outlet covers are an easy place to start babyproofing the home. Babies don’t have to be mobile for outlets to be a concern, because power outlets are often low to the ground. Even an infant who can roll over is at risk of shock from an electrical outlet. Outlet covers are inexpensive and easy to install. They’re usually clear or white, so they won’t attract any unwanted attention. Insert these plastic covers into each unused outlet to keep little fingers safe.
Baby Gates
Baby gates keep kids away from dangerous areas like stairs, but can also be useful to contain an infant when you’re busy in the kitchen. There are portable options that are pressure-based, and gates that screw into the wall for a more permanent installation.
Babyproofing the Bathroom
Install a lock for the toilet to keep children safe. It’s best to use the lock until they’re ready to start potty training. Cabinet locks keep curious infants away from body care products and cleaning supplies. You can also put a cover on the bathroom doorknob to keep them out of this room altogether.
Babyproof Your Home: the Kitchen
The kitchen is another dangerous area for small children. Use covers on the stove knobs, so children cannot turn on the burners. When cooking, turn the handles of pots and pans inward so kids won’t be able to reach and pull them off the stove.
Kitchen cabinets are often used for storing appliances, cleaning supplies, and other household chemicals. This is another area where you’ll want to install cabinet locks. To be safe, move chemicals to higher shelves or even to the garage to make sure they are out of the reach of children.
Tuck away appliance cords and make sure they don’t hang off the countertop. Install a lock on the pantry door to keep kids from playing there.
Take the time to babyproof your home early on. You may find as a busy parent, you have no free time to secure the house after the baby arrives. Revisit your babyproofing plans every month or so because children grow quickly. You may find you need new tactics to keep them safe.
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