As any parent knows, baby-proofing your home is a crucial step in ensuring your little one’s safety as they begin to explore their surroundings. From covering electrical outlets to installing baby gates, there are many steps parents take to make sure their home is safe for their little ones. However, there are several often overlooked areas that may pose potential hazards to curious infants and toddlers. Here are ten lesser-known ways to baby-proof your home, to help you to help you make sure your home is as safe as possible and make sure that you don’t miss anything.
Secure Heavy Furniture
Heavy furniture like bookshelves, dressers, and TVs can tip over if climbed on by an adventurous toddler. You can easily secure these items to the wall using furniture straps or anchors to prevent them from toppling over.
Tie Up Blind Cords
Blind cords come with a big warning label on them- as they pose a significant strangulation risk to young children. Ensure that blind cords are tied up and out of reach, or consider investing in cordless blinds or cord cleats to keep cords safely out of reach.
Lock Away Household Chemicals
Household cleaners, detergents, and other chemicals should be stored out of reach and in locked cabinets to prevent accidental poisoning. Consider installing childproof locks on all cabinets containing these substances, or any cabinets for that matter.
Cover Radiators and Heating Vents
Radiators and heating vents can become hot to the touch, posing a burn risk to curious infants and toddlers. Install radiator covers or vent covers to prevent accidental burns. If your child is curious like mine, they will take the vents off and stuff whatever they can find inside the vent. This can be dangerous and a potential fire hazard.
Install Door Stoppers
Little fingers can easily get pinched in doors, causing painful injuries. Install door stoppers or door guards to prevent doors from slamming shut. A trip to the ER with broken fingers is never fun.
Secure Window Screens
Window screens may not be strong enough to prevent a child from falling through. It is actually more common than you may think, but children can and do fall out of windows, even windows with screens. Install window guards or safety netting to prevent falls from open windows.
Anchor Rugs and Carpets
Loose rugs and carpets can be tripping hazards for young children who are still mastering their balance while walking. Use double-sided tape or rug grippers to secure rugs and carpets to the floor. You could even put the rugs away for the time being while your child is still learning how to gain his balance.
Protect Sharp Corners
Sharp corners on furniture and countertops can pose a risk of cuts and bruises to young children. Use corner guards or edge protectors to cushion these sharp edges.
Cover Stove Knobs
Gas or electric stove knobs can be tempting for curious little hands. Invest in stove knob covers to prevent children from accidentally turning on burners or causing other kitchen hazards. This is how Island Park fire damage happens.
Secure Pet Food and Water Bowls
Pet food and water bowls may contain choking hazards or pose a risk of spills that could lead to slips and falls. Keep pet bowls in areas that are inaccessible to young children or invest in elevated bowls that are out of reach.
By addressing these often overlooked areas of baby-proofing, you can create a safer environment for your child to explore and play in. Remember, no amount of baby-proofing can replace adult supervision, so always keep a watchful eye on your little one, especially in new environments or situations. With a combination of vigilance and thorough baby-proofing measures, you can help keep your child safe as they grow and explore the world around them.