Babies are innately inquisitive, a trait that fosters their growth and development into bright young individuals. However, this curiosity can also lead to chaos, and in the worst cases, it can result in dangerous situations if your home isn’t adequately secured. Before your little explorer starts crawling, take these essential steps to ensure a safe environment for both your child and your home.
1. Scan Your Floors and Low Areas
Inspect all surfaces below three feet for small items that could be choking hazards or toxic. Babies have a knack for finding anything that can fit into their mouths! Check under furniture, around vents, and between couch cushions. Common items to be cautious of include coins, small toys, screws, jewelry, cosmetics, and batteries.
2. Relocate Fragile Items
Move breakable objects, such as vases and picture frames, to high places. Ensure they’re genuinely out of your child’s reach; once they start pulling up, they may attempt to climb furniture to grab anything that catches their eye. Lock curio cabinets and relocate low-hanging CDs and DVDs. Alternatively, you might consider storing your valuables away for the next 18 years.
3. Secure Furniture
Fasten bookcases, entertainment centers, and shelves to the wall with brackets to prevent tipping. Babies will pull up on anything and everything; therefore, use corner guards on sharp furniture edges.
4. Hide Power Cords
Ensure power cords are either concealed or secured, as they can pose tripping hazards or strangulation risks. Little ones may tug on cords, potentially pulling down electronics, or even chew on them. Don’t forget to use outlet covers for any open sockets and secure window blind cords out of reach. If you use tablecloths, be cautious of items on the table that may fall.
5. Replace Hazardous Doorstops
Swap out two-piece doorstops, which can easily come apart in little hands, creating a choking risk.
6. Cook with Care
Use back burners on the stove whenever possible and turn pot handles inward. Avoid holding your child while cooking; multitasking can be dangerous in the kitchen.
7. Store Dangerous Items Safely
Keep knives, glassware, cleaning supplies, medications, and cosmetics secured in child-proof cabinets or high shelves. It’s wise to install child-safety locks on all drawers, as children can use them to climb onto counters. Make sure trash cans are out of reach or have child-proof lids.
8. Monitor Water Sources
Never leave mop water or bathwater unattended, as even a small amount can be a drowning hazard. Install toilet seat locks and set your water heater’s thermostat to 120 degrees Fahrenheit or lower to prevent burns.
9. Be Aware of Everyday Items
Common household products like soaps, shampoos, baby powder, and even makeup can be enticing to curious little ones. Ensure these items are stored safely out of reach.
Remember, one day you’ll reclaim your home décor. For now, focus on creating a safe environment for your little one.
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Summary
This guide outlines critical steps for baby-proofing your home, emphasizing the importance of securing small items, moving fragile objects, and ensuring safety in the kitchen and around water. With careful preparation, you can provide a safe environment for your curious child.