Home Expert Baby Proofing Tips

Baby proofing seems to be all new parent’s top priority, but this to-do list can be quite overwhelming. Many parents will read books or ask friends how to baby proof, but it’s really not that complicated. All you need to know is what baby proof items are out there and then it’s just a matter of going room by room. The first step is to get down on your baby’s level “literally” and look for objects that might pose a potential threat. Remove those items and then take one room at a time.

Common Living Areas:
The best parenting advice for baby proofing? Make sure every room in your house is safe for your baby. If a room is off limits, use a safety gate to block access or use doorknob covers to prohibit knob turning. Speaking of doors, be sure to remove those little rubber tips from all doorstops as they pose a choking hazard.

Place cushion guards on all tables and hearths to protect against sharp edges. Consider purchasing a play yard to provide a safe zone.

Secure all perimeter doors by installing out-of-reach deadbolts or chains to keep your baby safely inside the house.

Nursery:
Continue the baby proofing process in the nursery. Position the crib away from lamps, window blind cords, and artwork. Never place stuffed toys, pillows, or loose bedding inside the crib as these items present a suffocation risk.

Bolt heavy furniture to the wall or use safety straps to prevent your baby from accidentally pulling a piece of furniture over on top of them.

Keep diapering supplies, such as lotions and ointments, out of your baby's reach. And, for an added measure of safety, it's a good idea to place latches or locks on all dresser drawers.

Outlets and Cords:
Babies are positively drawn to electrical outlets and cords. Prevent the risk of electrical shock by inserting plastic plugs into every unused outlet.

You can even purchase special switch plates that cover the entire outlet in addition to covers that conceal both electrical cords and plugs.

Windows and Window Blinds:
Curious tots are quite adept when it comes to opening and closing things like windows. Use a window wedge to stop a window from opening too far. And, while you should make sure that your window screens are securely shut, it is important to note that a screen will NOT prevent your child from falling out.

Loose cords that dangle from blinds pose the threat of strangulation. Keep all blind cords safely out of reach by using cord wind-ups. Or, better yet, opt to install cordless window coverings.

Stairways:
Protect your baby from accidental falls by installing gates at the top and bottom of stairways. A wall-mount gate works best at the top of the staircase as most models offer a directional feature that prevents the gate from swinging out over the staircase. You can use either a pressure-mounted or wall-mounted gate at the bottom to block your baby from crawling up.

And, don't forget about railings and banisters. According to current building codes, railing slats should be no more than 3½" apart. Even if your railings are up to code, use a plastic banister shield or netting to protect your baby from falling through the slats.

Kitchen and Bathroom:
The kitchen is every baby's favorite playground. There are cabinets to open (and shut), pots and pans to bang, and enticing knobs on the stove to manipulate.

Start by removing sharp items from all cabinets and drawers that are at your baby's level. Take it one step further by installing baby proof latches and locks.

Place all cleaning supplies that are used daily out of your baby's reach. Store the rest in the garage.

Safeguard the contents in your refrigerator by using a safety latch. An oven lock will prevent your little chef from opening the door, and stove knob covers will block your baby from accidentally turning on the stove.

In the bathroom, install toilet locks to prohibit your baby from opening the lid. Not only will this prevent them from placing items in the toilet, it protects against drowning.

Last but not least, never leave your pet's food or water accessible. Pet food presents a choking hazard; water poses a drowning hazard.

Decks:
As with interior stairways, be sure to place wall-mounted gates at the top of deck stairways. And, cover all deck railing slats with a plastic shield guard or netting to prohibit your baby from falling through the slats.

Be sure to keep chairs and tables away from the edge of deck or screened patio to prevent your baby from falling over the rail or through the screen.

Last, keep your grill off limits.

If you make your home baby safe by baby proofing every room then your little one will enjoy the freedom of crawling and exploring while you have peace of mind that your baby is safe.

Kim Proulx, a Certified Parent Coach, knows what it takes to ensure that kids and parents live in a happy home environment. For family bonding to take place, it’s important to create a comfortable space for you and your baby to play. Then getting the right educational toys can really enhance your bonding experience.