Congratulations, new parents! Your bundle of joy has arrived, and now it's time to embark on the exciting journey of parenthood. As your little one begins to explore the world around them, it's essential to ensure their safety by babyproofing your home. Don't worry — it's not as daunting as it sounds! With a touch of creativity and some helpful products, you can turn your home into a safe haven for your curious adventurer.
This article provides general advice and product suggestions for babyproofing. But each home is different — make sure to assess your home's specific needs.
Babyproofing your home doesn't mean turning it into a fortress. Instead, think of it as a way to create a safe and nurturing environment where your baby can learn and play without unnecessary risks. To get started, walk through each room and look at things from your baby's perspective – down at floor level. You'll be amazed at the potential hazards you'll discover!
Here are seven things to do when babyproofing your home:
Sponsored content
1. Replace any corded window coverings
One of the top hidden hazards in the home? Corded window coverings. They can be a potential strangulation hazard for infants and young children. Parents and caregivers should check their window coverings for exposed or dangling cords and replace them with today’s safer cordless window coverings. Need to replace old blinds or install new ones? Going cordless is easier than ever before! Look for products marked with the Best for Kids™ certification label. Find out more.
 |
Products with the Best for Kids™ label have gone through third-party testing, are designed for use in homes with young kids, and are available at all major US retailers. Find out more.
2. Secure all electrical outlets
Those little electrical sockets seem like magnets for tiny fingers. Invest in some outlet covers to keep curious explorers from poking around where they shouldn't.
3. Install safety gates
As your baby starts crawling and eventually walking, safety gates become your best friend. They keep little ones away from stairs, the kitchen, and other potentially hazardous areas.
 Banana Stock | Canva |
4. Protect them from sharp corners
Tables and furniture can have sharp edges that pose a risk to your active child. Soft corner protectors are like little cushions that prevent unwanted bumps and bruises during playtime.
Going Room-By-Room: A Babyproofing Checklist
To make it easier, here's a simple room-by-room checklist to keep in mind as you work through the babyproofing process:
All living areas
Replace corded window coverings with cordless window coverings.
Install outlet covers.
Secure furniture to the wall.
Cover sharp corners with protectors.
Consider baby-friendly furniture (e.g., rounded edges).
Install safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs.
Place baby monitors strategically.
Remove small objects that could be choking hazards.
Secure and appropriately lock all firearms and weapons.
Kitchen
Use stove knob covers.
Install cabinet locks.
Secure refrigerator and oven doors.
Bathroom
Check water temperature with a thermometer.
Keep medications and cleaning products out of reach.
Use a toilet lock if necessary.
5. Lock up cabinets
Babies are natural detectives, especially when it comes to exploring cabinets. Keep them safe by using childproof cabinet locks to prevent access to potentially harmful items.
 Tiburon Studios | Canva |
6. Use a reliable baby monitor
A good baby monitor is like having an extra set of eyes and ears. It allows you to keep an eye on your little one, even when you're not in the same room, giving you peace of mind.
7. Anchor furniture to walls
Once your baby starts pulling up and cruising, it's essential to ensure that tall furniture, like bookshelves and dressers, are securely anchored to the wall. This prevents tipping accidents and helps to keep your child safe.
Take the time to babyproof your home as you embark on this exciting journey of parenthood, from replacing any corded window coverings to securing furniture to help create a nurturing environment for your little explorer to safely learn, play, and grow.
Janel Plunkard is the publisher of Macaroni KID Springfield Mo.
