When you have a baby, your home becomes a whole new world. Suddenly, you are constantly on the lookout for hazards. You start to see sharp corners, electrical outlets, and stairs everywhere. Add the fact that, according to statistics, approximately 80% of U.S. homes are over 20 years old and were not designed with child safety in mind, and you have a recipe for disaster. Follow these top five tips to make your home safer for your little one.
1. Deep Clean
One of the most important things you can do to childproof your home is deep cleaning it. This means removing any dust, dirt, or grime that could harm your baby. Dust bunnies might not seem like a big deal, but they can contain many harmful toxins. If you have hardwood floors, be sure to vacuum and mop them regularly. If you have carpets, make sure to shampoo them at least once a year.
In addition to vacuuming and mopping, you should also wipe down all of your surfaces with a damp cloth. This includes countertops, tables, chairs, door knobs, and rails. Any surface that your baby might come into contact with should be clean.
2. Install Baby Gates
According to child development experts, most kids begin using the stairs at 18 months of age. Unfortunately, just because they can use the stairs doesn’t mean they can do so safely. Every year, thousands of kids are injured in stair-related accidents. To prevent your child from becoming a statistic, it is important to install baby gates at the top and bottom of any staircase in your home. If you have an outdoor deck or patio, you should also consider installing a baby gate there.
According to the U.S. Census American Housing Survey 2017, more than 13 million homes in the United States rely on private wells for their water supply. If you are one of these homeowners, it’s important to also have the area around your well-fenced-in.
3. Cover Electrical Outlets
Another hazard that is often overlooked is electrical outlets. Kids are naturally curious and will put just about anything into an electrical outlet. To prevent your child from getting electrocuted, it is important to cover all of the outlets in your home. You can find outlet covers at most hardware stores or online.
If you have any cords dangling from your outlets, make sure to tuck them away so your child can’t reach them. Also, be sure to unplug any appliances when they are not in use. If an appliance has a frayed or damaged cord, make sure to replace it immediately.
4. Anchor Heavy Furniture
Another hazard that is often overlooked in the home is heavy furniture. While it might seem like common sense to anchor your dresser to the wall, you’d be surprised how many people don’t do this. Every year, thousands of kids are injured by falling furniture. To prevent your child from becoming a statistic, make sure to anchor all of the heavy furniture in your home.
You can find furniture anchors at most hardware stores or online. Most anchors are very easy to install and only take a few minutes. Also, be sure to keep any heavy objects off of shelves and away from the edges of tables.
5. Invest in Safety Locks
Last but not least, you should invest in safety locks for all of the cabinets and doors in your home. This includes the doors to your bathroom, laundry room, and any other rooms that contain harmful chemicals or cleaning supplies. You should also lock any cabinets or drawers containing sharp objects, such as knives or scissors.
Keeping your child safe is one of the most important things you can do as a parent. By following these five tips, you can childproof your home and create a safe haven for your family.
