Baby-proofing your home

Baby-Proofing your Home

Preparing for a little one to come home for the first time can be stressful. From parenting classes to stocking up on diapers, there’s a lot of priority to-dos when expecting. One of the most important steps you and your partner can take is baby-proofing your home. The right precautions can give you and your family the safety and peace of mind you need.

Get Down to Baby Level

The best place to start is by getting down to baby-level. That means looking around your home with a new perspective—crawling around the room to see what potential dangers could be lurking where your little one will be spending the majority of their time. Do this several times at different age levels, so when your child starts to walk and climb, you can ensure that all potential dangers are taken care of, even if it’s something you already thought you took care of.

Secure Electrical Outlets and Appliances

The next step is to make sure all your electrical outlets are secure. Install coverings that fit snugly over all your outlets so curious babies can’t stick their fingers or objects into them and get shocked. Additionally, unplug any appliances that can be a problem for a curious toddler, such as toasters, irons, and LED and LCD displays.

Check for Choking Hazards

Babies put all sorts of things into their mouths, so it’s important to check for small objects lying around. Anything something bigger than 1.75 inches in diameter or that can fit completely into their mouth should be stored away. Also, secure any drawers and closets with objects that could become choking hazards, such as coins or jewelry.

Secure Windows and Windows Screens

Windows can be dangerous in several ways, so securing your windows with locks is a must. Window locks give your windows extra reinforcement to prevent your toddler from opening the window and falling out. Another risk from windows is if a screen comes off, which leads to your toddler crawling out of their window. To reinforce windows screens and prevent any future accidents, use window screen locks to ensure the screens stay in place at all times.

Bathroom Hazards

Bathrooms are one of the most dangerous rooms in the house for a toddler. Heavy furniture, small objects, slippery surfaces and exposed cabinets and drawers can create a major hazard. Keep your bathroom door closed at all times and make sure all your exposed cabinets, drawers and closets are secured with locks. Additionally, any cleaning supplies, medications and cosmetics should be completely out of a baby’s reach.

With these tips, you’ll be able to make sure your home is safe and secure for your baby.

Additional Baby-Proofing Tools to Consider

• Cabinet Locks – Secure all your cabinets and drawers with cabinet locks to make sure your baby doesn’t get into any items they shouldn’t.
• Edge Guards – Edge guards can be used to pad sharp corners of furniture and tabletops, as well as kid-friendly items like rocking chairs and playpens.
• Baby Gates – Baby gates are perfect for keeping your baby away from stairs and possible danger zones. Choose gate models that are difficult for a baby to open or climb over.

Baby-proofing your home can seem like a lot of work, but the safety and peace of mind you’ll gain is worth it. With just a few simple steps, you and your family can rest easy knowing that your baby is in the safest environment possible.