How to Baby-Proof Your Home From Top to Bottom

As babies grow, so does their curiosity with the world around them. As your little one approaches each new phase of life from crawling, to walking and climbing, basic household items can turn into potential hazards. Make your house baby-safe by ensuring that any item your baby encounters won’t hurt them.

First, consider the big picture. Do all of your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms have batteries and have you tested them recently to ensure they are working? Make sure you have baby gates at the bottom and top of every staircase and place electrical covers on all outlets. Check for sharp corners on your furniture by getting down on the baby’s level to evaluate areas that could do harm.

Next is the kitchen. This is a room where parents are typically distracted when preparing, cooking or cleaning so it’s important to eliminate safety risks that could occur even if you turn your back. Use bottom cabinets for items that are safe for a baby to find like pots and pans and move cleaning supplies and anything with harsh chemicals to higher cupboards.

Safeguard against slips in the bathroom by using non-stick mats in the bathtub and on hard surface floors. While you might not see your toilet as a danger, the water inside it and the lid can be a hazard for your child. Try installing a toilet lock to prevent little fingers from getting smashed and to guard against too much curiosity.

Window coverings are often a safety risk that is overlooked. Hunter Douglas window fashions are designed with safety in mind to reduce the risk of accidents. They offer a range of motorized options, like the Skyline Gliding Window Panels, that eliminate the lift cords and allow the product to be operated at the touch of a button. Other window safety tips include placing your child’s crib and other furniture away from windows and installing childproof screens or window guards to prevent falls.

While you may have covered all of the obvious issues consider the small things too. Vacuum often to remove any small items that could be a choking hazard for your baby, cover radiators and heating vents to prevent burns and clear cosmetics and hair products off your counters as they can pose a poison risk.

We all want the best for our babies so keep these tips in mind to ensure they stay safe in all areas of your home. More child safety tips are available at hunterdouglas.ca.