Baby Proofing Your Home

Preparing for a baby is an exciting time in a couple’s lives. There are many things to look forward to when becoming a parent, but there are definitely stresses that go along with it. One way to relieve some stress around the house is to make sure that your home is properly baby-proofed. We’ve compiled a list of basic baby-proofing measures you should take around your home to ensure that your child stays safe.

1. Cushion the edges of all furniture pieces in your home that have sharp corners. Common pieces include, coffee and side tables, tv stands, fireplaces, window ledges, etc.
2. Shield your fireplace with a guard door to keep your curious, little one away from the dangers of a fireplace.
3. Babies are naturally curious and will reach for everything with their little hands. It is important to install sliding covers over all outlets around the house. Sliding covers are the best option for keeping children safe from outlets, as traditional plastic outlet covers can be a choking hazard.
4. If you have window blinds or drapes in the home, make sure that the cord is kept out of the baby’s reach, as this can also be a choking hazard.
5. If you have a pet in the home, make sure that their kibble is not left unattended, as your little one might think it is snack time for them.
6. When your child can stand it is easy for them to reach knobs on the stove. Install stove knob covers to make sure that they do not accidently turn the stove on.
7. Invest in latches and locks for low cabinets in the kitchen and bathrooms. Often, cleaning supplies and medicines are left in these types of cabinets, which are hazardous to your little one if they are able to get ahold of those items.
8. Install toilet locks to all of the toilets in the house. Children often try to lift toilet lids, which can result in them reaching for the water or smashing their fingers when the lid closes.
9. If you have a staircase in your home, make sure it is blocked off by a baby-gate, as kiddoes love to attempt to climb the stairs before they can safely do so.
10. Many families invest in a nice baby monitor, which is a great way to check on your baby, even during nap time. Make sure that if your monitor has cords attached that they are tightly wound and always kept out of the baby’s reach.

Start with these basic baby-proofing ideas, and then assess the rest of your home to see what else might be needed. Not only will this keep your baby safe, but it can provide you with piece of mind knowing that your child can explore freely around your home without the risk of injury.