Are you planning to welcome a new member into your family? Congratulations! As a new parent, one of your top concerns should always revolve around providing a safe and secure environment for your child to grow. Childproofing your home is an absolute must for parents who want to keep their curious little ones out of harm’s way.

But where do you start? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! This guide will give you some great tips and tricks on how to childproof your home for babies, toddlers, and beyond 🤗

Baby-Proofing Basics

Start Low

When it comes to baby-proofing, you need to get down to your baby’s level. Crawling around your house on your hands and knees will give you a unique perspective on just how many hazards are at floor level. Cover any electrical outlets with plastic covers, secure cabinet doors with child locks, and remove any dangling cords that your baby could pull on 👶

A baby playing with plastic covers

Secure Heavy Objects

Heavy and bulky furniture can topple over and cause serious injuries. Anchor heavy objects such as bookshelves, televisions, and dressers to the walls 🚨

A child holding onto a bookshelf, trying to climb it

Lock it Up

Medications, cleaning products, and sharp objects should always be kept under lock and key in a cabinet that your child cannot access. Store these items on high shelving or high cabinets where they are out of reach 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

A parent locking a cabinet

Supervision is Key

Even with all the proper precautions in place, never leave your child alone without supervision. Keep an eye on your child at all times, especially when they are in rooms that have not been fully baby-proofed 😇

A parent watching over their child playing

Toddler-Proofing Tips

Block Off Stairways

Stairs pose a significant risk to children, especially when they are first learning to walk. Install baby gates at the top and bottom of stairways to prevent any accidents from occurring 🚧

A baby gate blocking off a staircase

Cover Sharp Edges

As your child begins to move around more, sharp edges of furniture and countertops can become hazardous. Use corner protectors to cover sharp edges and ensure your child avoids any injuries 🌟

Corner protectors on a coffee table

Secure Doors and Windows

Toddlers are good at opening and closing doors and windows, which can lead to dangerous situations. Install locks and guards to prevent your child from opening doors and windows on their own 🚪

A window lock preventing a child from opening it

Keep Valuables Up High

Once your child becomes a toddler, they become more curious about the world around them. Keep any valuables you don’t want your child to touch or play with on high shelves and out of reach 🎁

Parents keeping a vase on a high shelf

Beyond Toddler-Proofing

Practice Fire Safety

As your child grows older, they will become more capable of moving around and exploring their environment. Teach your child about fire safety, including what to do in case of a fire and how to safely evacuate your home 🔥

A family with a fire escape plan

Water Safety

Water safety is vital to ensure your child stays safe around pools and other bodies of water. Never leave your child unattended near water, and consider enrolling your child in swimming lessons for added safety 🏊‍♀️

Parents and their child in a swimming pool

Teach Stranger Danger

Unfortunately, there are people in this world who may want to harm your child. Teach your child about stranger danger and safe behaviors around people they don’t know. Encourage them to trust their gut and tell a trusted adult if they ever feel unsafe 🙅‍♀️

A parent teaching their child about stranger danger

Childproofing your home is an ongoing process. Keep an eye on your child’s developmental stages and adjust your childproofing accordingly. Remember, the most important thing is to always keep your child safe and secure. Happy parenting! 🤗

A happy family playing together