Toddlers are naturally curious and explorative but lack awareness and understanding of potential dangers around them.. Their cheeky curiosity can lead them to explore areas of your home that may pose risks to their safety.
Baby proofing your house can create a secure environment that minimises the likelihood of accidents and injuries (and keeps them away from hidden chocolate!).
11 Baby proofing tips to keep your curious toddler safe
1. Secure furniture
Ensure that large, heavy furniture items like bookshelves, tallboys, and TV stands are securely anchored to the wall. Use appropriate brackets and screws to attach them to wall studs. This prevents the risk of furniture tipping over if a child tries to climb on them, which can lead to severe injuries or even fatalities.
2. Install safety gates
Safety gates are essential for blocking off areas like stairs or rooms with potential hazards, such as a home office with cords and electronics. Choose sturdy gates that securely attach to the wall or doorframe. Pressure-mounted gates are suitable for doorways, while hardware-mounted gates are necessary for the top of stairs.
3. Cover electrical outlets
Insert plug covers or outlet caps into all unused electrical outlets throughout your home. These covers prevent toddlers from inserting objects or fingers into the outlets, reducing the risk of electrical shocks or burns.
4. Cord management
Secure cords from blinds, curtains, and electronics to prevent strangulation hazards. Use cord shorteners or winders to keep cords out of reach, buy some cord keepers for the back of appliances and use them to keep cords up and out of reach, or opt for cordless window treatments where possible.
5. Lock cabinets and drawers
Install safety locks or latches on cabinets and drawers containing hazardous items such as cleaning supplies, medications, sharp objects, or small parts. Choose locks that are easy for adults to operate but difficult for young children to unlock.
6. Secure appliances
Take measures to secure appliances in the kitchen and other areas. Use stove knob covers to prevent toddlers from accidentally turning on burners, especially when unsupervised. Consider installing oven and refrigerator locks to prevent access to these appliances, reducing the risk of burns, cuts, or ingesting harmful substances.
7. Install window guards
Install window guards or stops on all windows to prevent falls from open windows. Window guards should be strong, durable, and securely attached to the window frame to withstand the weight of a child leaning against them.
8. Move small objects
Keep small objects, coins, buttons, beads, and other choking hazards out of reach of toddlers. Store these items in secure containers or high shelves where children cannot access them. Regularly inspect play areas, living spaces, and bedrooms to ensure no small objects are within reach of curious hands.
9. Cover gaps, sharp corners and edges
Use corner guards or edge bumpers (pool noodles work a treat!) on furniture with sharp corners or edges, such as coffee tables, countertops, and cabinets. These soft, cushioned protectors reduce the risk of injuries from accidental collisions or falls. Use riser covers or netting to make sure little heads can’t get stuck between steps or railings.
10. Bathroom safety
The bathroom can pose various hazards to toddlers. Install toilet locks to prevent drowning risks, especially for curious children who may try to play in the toilet water. Keep razors, medications, cleaning products, and other potentially harmful items out of reach by storing them in locked cabinets or high shelves. Use non-slip mats in the bathtub to prevent slips and falls during bath time – they also make your bath look oh-so-cute!
11. Secure doors and windows
Install doorknob covers or door locks to prevent toddlers from wandering into unsafe areas such as garages, outside, or rooms with potential hazards. Use window locks or wedges to prevent children from opening windows, reducing the risk of falling or getting stuck.
Note: Before implementing any security solution, make sure the materials you choose are safe, durable, and can be securely attached to prevent accidents. Test its effectiveness by carefully inspecting the area and observing how well it prevents injury or accident. Lastly, consider the aesthetic appeal of your safety solution and how it complements the overall look of your home – the less they see, the better!
Review and update your baby proofing measures regularly as your child grows and becomes more adventurous. Remember, supervision is crucial for keeping your toddler safe at all times, even in a well-toddler-proofed home. Stay vigilant and proactive in identifying and addressing potential hazards to create a safe environment for your child to explore, play in, and grow.
What to read nextÂ
- WARNING: Video Catches Heart-Stopping Moment of Falling Furniture on 2 Year Old Twin
- ‘I Woke Up and He Was Not Here’ – Missing Toddler Found in Unlikely Place
- Taming Toddlers: 10 Things All Mums Need to Remember about Toddlerhood
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