Becoming a parent is feeling beyond measure, especially if you’re a first-time parent. But it also comes with a lot of responsibilities. As your child grows, you need to ensure their safety in your home.
So, to ensure that your child remains safe in your home, you need to take actionable steps to childproof your home. However, it can also be an overwhelming task, especially for new parents.
But fear not! We’ve compiled a complete guide to childproofing your home in seven easy steps. So, let’s begin:
Start With The Basics
The first step in childproofing your home is to start with the basics. But what does that mean?
Here, starting with the basics means identifying potential hazards in your home. This includes securing loose rugs, covering electrical outlets, and putting up baby gates. These simple steps can go a long way in ensuring your child’s safety.
Remember, your child’s curiosity knows no bounds. They will explore every nook and cranny of your home, so make sure that every room is safe for them to explore.
Lock It Up
As your child grows, they will start to open up the drawers and cabinets. This can lead to potentially dangerous situations, such as ingesting harmful substances or getting their fingers caught in drawers.
To prevent this, install childproof locks on all drawers and cabinets. Believe it or not, this will save you a lot of headaches (and trips to the emergency room).
Call Pest Control Experts
We know how frustrating it can be to see unwanted guests (pests) in your home rolling around here and there, especially in your child’s room.
Pests not only wreak havoc on the interiors, but they can also possess several health issues for you and your children, such as yellow fever, dengue, malaria, etc. These pests can also pose a choking hazard to your child if they ingest them.
Thus, to keep the pests at bay, it is wise to invest in pest control or exterminator resources in your area to keep your home safe and pest-free. Unfortunately, you can’t show off your DIY skills in the pest infestation process. Even if you do, there is a high chance that these pests will come back to your home.
So, to get a permanent solution, seeking help from professional pest control experts can be a good option.
Cover The Corners
8 out of 10 children are injured at home because of the corners of the furniture. These sharp corners in furniture are dangerous and you should invest in corner covers to prevent injuries.
Not only will they make your furniture safer for your child, but they will also protect your furniture from scratches and dents caused by your little one’s curious exploration.
Cover Electrical Outlets
Electrical outlets can be a potential hazard for your child. They can be easily accessed and pose a risk of electrocution. Cover all electrical outlets with child-proof covers to prevent any accidents.
Be Careful with Toys
Toys are a great way to keep your child entertained, but they can also be a hazard. Always check the age recommendations on toys before purchasing them for your child. Also, be sure to inspect toys regularly for any potential hazards, such as loose parts or broken pieces.
Invest In Baby Gates
Believe it or not, baby gates are your best friend. You can use them to keep your little one out of the kitchen, the stairs, or any other room that you don’t want them exploring.
And if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, you can use them to create a mini-fortress for your little one to play in.
Be Mindful of the Small Stuff
Small objects, like coins, marbles, and buttons, are choking hazards for your child. Keep them out of reach or put them in a sealed container. Also, you can use them to create a sensory bin for your little one to explore.
Keep Your Toxins Under Lock and Key
Cleaning supplies, medications, and other toxic substances should be kept out of reach of children. Store them in a locked cabinet or high up on a shelf.
You can even label the cabinet “Mom’s Secret Potion” to keep your little one from getting too curious.
Summing Up
Childproofing your home is an essential step in ensuring your child’s safety. It can be a daunting task, but by following these nine easy steps, you can make your home safe and secure for your little one.
As much as you try to protect them, children are curious and will inevitably explore their surroundings. So, embrace the chaos, keep a close eye on your little one, and enjoy this wild ride called parenthood!
