How to Properly Baby-Proof Your Home

Baby is on the move! And you are probably thinking that it’s time to wrap your house in bubble wrap because everything in sight is a potential hazard. However, instead of viewing this process as “baby-proofing,” try seeing it as ensuring your home is “baby friendly.” This means less of saying “no,” and more of creating a safe space that encourages baby to explore. Follow these tips to know how to more simply ensure baby’s safety as they become fueled by curiosity and excitement about the world around them. 

Cover Outlets

Sure, a baby can eventually learn not to stick their fingers (or other objects) in an outlet. However, this is one that is just not worth the risk. 

Secure Heavy Furniture to the Walls

As your child learns to walk and climb, he or she will begin to see your furniture with new eyes. They will be tempted to take on Mount Everest simply for the thrill of it, so it’s a good idea to secure pieces like heavy bookshelves and dressers to the walls. 

Make Drawers Accessible 

Instead of locking up drawers and cabinets so that baby can’t open them, rearrange the contents so that they can safely rummage through them. Move dangerous and breakable objects out of reach, and fill bottom drawers with things like pots and pans and plastic food containers. You can lock one or two cabinets if you need to, while still keeping the others accessible to baby. 

If you still want a little more security, here are some other ideas that won’t compromise simplicity:

• Corner Pads for Sharp Corners

You can use these for a short time as baby is learning their own strength and spatial awareness. They will no longer be a major concern as baby becomes more steady and aware. 

• Tie Up Cords

Put all electrical cords out of baby’s reach, especially if baby is still prone to taste testing everything he gets his hands on!

• Safety Gates

These are particularly useful for protecting baby from stairs. You can also use them to keep baby in or out of rooms when you are simply unable to supervise their play and exploration.

• Close Doors

If there are rooms that you are unable to make baby friendly, simply keep the door closed. This method is especially useful for the bathroom.  

Safe access to real life objects encourages independence, promotes hands-on learning, and instills confidence. As baby learns the house rules under your careful supervision, you both will enjoy all of the discoveries that will soon take place!