Baby Proofing 101

As babies grow, they will become very curious. Crawling, standing, and walking open up a whole new world but also new risks. Baby proofing your home helps create a safe environment where your child can explore and learn without unnecessary danger. While it is nearly impossible for your home to be completely accident-proof, taking a few basic precautions can help to reduce the chances of your baby getting hurt and will give you peace of mind. In this article we will cover the top five things to baby proof in your home. 

Uncovered outlets are at a baby’s eye and hand level. Using outlet covers prevents little fingers from touching electrical currents and also avoids your little one from sticking anything into the outlet like toys, utensils, etc. 

Kitchen and bathroom cabinets often contain sharp or dangerous objects like knives, cleaning supplies, and medicines. Safety latches keep these items out of reach and help to prevent their little fingers from getting caught in drawers and cabinets. 

Stairs are one of the biggest hazards for young children. Installing safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs can help prevent serious falls. When installing safety gates it is really important that you get the appropriate size gate to fit your entrance and also securely mount the gate into the wall to make sure it does not fall if your baby leans on it or grabs it. 

Heavy furniture and televisions can tip over if a baby tries to climb or pull on them. Securing them to the wall reduces the risk of tipping accidents. Most big pieces of furniture often come with an anchor to attach, but if your furniture did not come with an anchor they can be purchased online or at any home supply store. 

Babies explore with their mouths. Keeping small items like coins, batteries, and toys with small parts off the floor helps prevent choking. It is always a good idea to double check your child's toys to make sure if they are battery operated- the batteries are secure. 

Keep in mind that baby proofing doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. A few changes can make a big difference in keeping your baby safe as they grow and explore their world. Baby proofing will help give you more freedom and peace of mind to allow your little one to explore without increased risk.