If you are expecting a newborn, now is the time to prepare your house for the little one’s arrival. Whether you have small children or friends with babies and toddlers who often come to visit, here are a few ways to babyproof your home. Make sure children have a safe place to grow and explore with these tips.

Ways to Babyproof a Home

1. Use Safety Gates

A safety gate is one of the most important items to purchase before the baby arrives. These gates are typically made of steel and plastic and attach firmly to the walls using screws or pressure.

The gates can open inwards or outwards depending on how you install them. Make sure to purchase one that is the appropriate height for your child. Gates start at around 29 inches and some are as tall as 37 inches. Safety gates are especially important at the top and bottom of a staircase.

2. Install Furniture Corner Guards

Furniture corner guards are a must-have item for babyproofing your home. These inexpensive plastic protectors fit snugly over the sharp corners of furniture and tables so your child won’t be injured while exploring the home.

3. Use Cabinet Locks to Babyproof Your Home

Cabinet latches or locks attach to cabinet doors and drawers to prevent children from opening them. Start by babyproofing the cabinets that present the biggest risk to toddlers, usually the lower cabinets in the kitchen and bathrooms. As the child grows, you may need to install locks on higher cabinets as well.

4. Window Blind Cords

To prevent strangulation, pull window blind cords out of reach of children – whether they’re on windows or sliding glass doors. There are special safety brackets made especially for this purpose that attach to the cords and keep them out of your child’s reach. Better yet, replace the blinds throughout the home with cordless models.

5. Babyproofing Outlets and Fixtures

Cover electrical outlets to prevent a curious baby or toddler from poking toys or fingers into them. You can purchase plug-in covers or a sliding box-style cover to completely hide the outlet until it is needed.

Other Tips to Babyproof Your Home

Babyproofing your home is reversible. Your house can be returned to its original state after your child has grown and no longer needs these safeguards. Below are a few other tips to make your home safer for small children.

  • Be aware of chemicals in your home, particularly toxic pesticides and household cleaners. Replace them with non-toxic alternatives and keep all of these products locked away.
  • Windows and sliding glass doors are common areas that children escape from. Double-check the locks and keep windows and doors securely closed.
  • If you have questions or need more information on babyproofing your home, talk to your pediatrician.

By following these tips, you’ll keep your child safe from harm. It is always better to take precautions early before the baby arrives. You’ll be well prepared and won’t feel stressed about unknown hazards in your home.

Florida Superior Inspections provides home inspections in Southwest Florida. Contact us to request our services.