Jul 29 2008
Tips for Toddler-Proofing Your Home
It is never too late to start baby/toddler proofing your home. Often times as your toddler gets older (and moving around) you will find more ways that your home needs safety improvement.
1. Use socket plugs - This is probably one of the best tips ever. These handy little plastic covers plug right into your wall sockets. You never have to worry about little fingers sticking something into an outlet again.
2. Lock cabinet doors – Cleaning supplies and chemicals in their (sometimes) pretty and colorful bottles are intriguing and harmful to a toddler. Cabinet locks come in all shapes and sizes. The most popular locks are plastic ones that slip on and off (with ease to adults) and keep kids out of lower cabinets.
3. Use a baby gate – This one is another favorite among many parents. A baby gate is a simple and easy way to keep your baby and toddler in one area of your home. It is usually a simple design, made of wood that attaches and locks itself to a door facing. As your little one gets older they will find a way to get over these gates, so supervision is always necessary. Baby safety gates are also useful on the entrances to stairs.
4. Fasten all furniture – An often overlooked and fatal danger to a toddler is large furniture such as dressers, bookcases, entertainment centers, and nightstands. Toddlers climb on and into these furniture pieces which can tip over and crush them. Use furniture fasteners to secure these pieces to your walls.
5. Door Knob Covers - Keep your little ones from getting out of the house or in rooms that are off limits by using door knob covers. Always make sure your front/back doors are locked at all times for many safety reasons.
6. Wind up blind cords - Hanging blind cords are another forgotten danger to toddlers who can get wrapped in them and potentially suffocate. Winding up the cords keeps them out of reach decreasing the chances your child will play with them.
7. Use non-toxic cleaning products - Using and keeping non-toxic cleaning products in your home reduces the risk of injury if your toddler they were to ingest them. It is also better for the environment and your health as well.
As always the best safety tool is proper supervision!
