The Art of Babyproofing
BABYPROOFING: The process of making an environment or object safer for children. This can include anything from securing furniture to prevent tipping, covering electrical outlets, to using baby gates in controlling access to certain areas.
Essential Safety Measures for Every Room
Creating a safe haven for your little one begins with babyproofing every nook and cranny of your home. As your child grows, their curiosity does too, making it imperative to stay one step ahead. This is a post you’ll want to save, share & Pin because you can never be too prepared. Babyproofing relates to everyone with an early crawler or walker in their home. Whether you’re an expecting parent or already have little ones on-the-go, childproofing is a must! We will walk you through essential safety measures to babyproof every room, ensuring peace of mind for you and a secure environment for your baby.
The Nursery
Crib Safety: Ensure the crib meets current safety standards and the mattress and sheet fit snugly. Keep all loose bedding and toys out of babies crib during these early stages. And any furnishings next to the crib such as nightstands or dressers should be moved away from the crib out of arm’s reach. This includes baby monitors.
Secure Furniture: Anchor dressers, nightstands, changing tables and bookcases to the wall to prevent tipping.
Soft Flooring: Consider a soft rug or play mat to cushion any falls.
Outlet Covers: Replace existing outlets with sliding outlet covers. These are safer than the plugs which can be a choking hazard, and the sliding covers are so convenient.
Cord Management: Keep cords from blinds/window coverings and electronics out of reach. Installing a cord cleat for hanging cords will keep them secure.
Corner Protectors: Apply soft corner protectors to any sharp edges on furnishings.
The Kitchen
Cabinet Locks: Install safety locks on cabinets, especially those containing cleaning supplies.
Stove Guards: Use stove knob covers and guards to prevent burns and injury.
Corner Protectors: Apply soft corner protectors to sharp edges on counters and tables.
Outlet Covers: Replace existing outlets with sliding outlet covers.These are safer than the plugs which can be a choking hazard, and the sliding covers are so convenient.
Remove placemat settings from your dining table: Those tiny fingers will reach and grab at anything they see, including placemats which can have heavy and breakable items on them. Once they can grab the corner it’ll all come crashing down.
Keep a good distance of clearspace away from the edge of all countertops: Ensuring any items on your countertop are pushed away from the edge and out of reach can prevent your child from bringing anything down.
The Living Room
Fireplace Safety: Install a barrier such as a gate or plexiglass protecting screen to keep those little hands away from this dangerous area.
Cord Management: Keep cords from blinds and electronics out of reach. Installing a cord cleat to any hanging cords will keep them secure.
Outlet Covers: Replace existing outlets with sliding outlet covers.These are safer than the plugs which can be a choking hazard, and the sliding covers are so convenient.
Corner Protectors: Apply soft corner protectors to any sharp edges on furnishings.
Home Decor: Make sure all breakable items, small plants, and other home decor objects are out of reach or stored away for the time being.
Secure Wall Art: If any wall art is within reach - oversized and hung low or above a sofa, first make sure that it is mounted securely. Install any heavy artwork into the studs. And apply mounting putty to the back of each bottom corner to keep your child from pulling the piece away from the wall.
The Bathroom
Toilet Locks: Install toilet seat locks to prevent drowning hazards.
Non-Slip Mats: Place non-slip mats in the tub and on the bathroom floor.
Cabinet Locks: Install safety locks on cabinets, especially those containing cleaning supplies or self-care/makeup/body products.
Medicine Storage: Keep medicines in high cabinets with childproof latches.
Outlet Covers: Replace existing outlets with sliding outlet covers.These are safer than the plugs which can be a choking hazard, and the sliding covers are so convenient.
Secure Furniture: Anchor any free-standing storage shelving to the wall to prevent tipping.
Babyproofing Services
If the task of babyproofing seems daunting, consider hiring a professional babyproofing service. They can provide a thorough home assessment and install the necessary safety devices, ensuring that your home is as safe as possible for your little one. I have personally used a babyproofing service for our home and the experience was great. The investment absolutely worth it.
“As your child grows, their curiosity does too, making it imperative to stay one step ahead. ”
Babyproofing is an ongoing process that adapts with your child’s development. By incorporating these babyproofing essentials and staying vigilant, you can create a nurturing environment that allows your child to explore safely.
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