If you have an infant, it may seem too soon to start baby-proofing your home, since your child is still learning how to lift his or her head. But child development happens quickly. One day your baby can’t lift her head and the next day she has already learned to roll over. However, you can never be too careful when you have a baby in the house. Your little one will be mobile soon, so here are the best baby-proofing tips to get your house baby-ready.
Secure Large Objects.
Your baby can’t walk or crawl yet, but that doesn’t stop him from grasping, pulling and rolling himself around. He also loves to grab objects. This could lead to disaster. Secure anything heavy which could fall on your baby. This includes televisions (baby can climb up dresser drawers and knock over the TV), bookshelves, furniture, alarm clocks and other hazards. Tie them down or affix them with something strong.
Wrap Your Cords.
Also secure your power cords. A tangled mess of cords is a temptation for most babies and toddlers. Pulling the plug from the wall could lead to an electronic device crashing to the floor. Babies and toddlers also love to chew cords and wires. Wrap the cords up, secure them in place and use products that keep them together.
Baths, Sinks and Toilets.
Your child can drown in as little as one inch of water. Keep your toilet lid secured with a lock, since it always has standing water. Don’t leave your child alone in or near a bath or sink.
Hide Medication.
Your medications should always be away from your children’s reach. Make a point of leaving medications in their childproof containers. Don’t take your medication in front of your child, or he may think you are just eating and try to imitate you. Don’t throw away old medicine in the trash. Don’t call medicine “candy” or describe it as “yummy.”
Cover Electrical Outlets.
Use childproof outlet covers. Your child could get a small electrical shock from the electrical outlets. Make sure the outlet covers are safe for children, since some small covers could present a choking hazard. Placing furniture in front of electrical outlets also keeps them out of baby’s reach.
Changing Table Guardrails.
Babies learn to roll over pretty quickly, so make sure your changing table has guardrails to prevent falling when you change her diapers. Man tables have buckles that keep the baby secure. Don’t turn your back or leave the baby alone. Have the things you need ready and close by so you don’t need to turn away.
Lock Up Chemicals.
Many household cleaners have products that are toxic if ingested. You should keep these cabinets in a locked cabinet. Alternatively, place the products in a cabinet or closet shelf that is too high for small fingers to reach. Do the same with small appliances.
Tub Safety.
You can prevent burns by turning your hot water heater down so water gets no hotter than 120 degrees. It’s also good to install no-slip strips on the bottom of your tub. Add a soft cover on the faucet to protect your baby’s tender head from bumping against something sharp.