What is Babyproofing and Childproofing?

Babyproofing–also called childproofing–is the process of making your home as safe as possible for babies and young kids by minimizing or, ideally, eliminating potential hazards. It typically involves taking precautions like covering outlets, securing furniture, and storing dangerous items out of reach to create an environment that little ones can safely explore.

When Should I Start Babyproofing?

Babyproofing should definitely begin before your baby becomes mobile–often around 4-6 months when they start to roll and sit up, and eventually crawl. But it’s smart to consider possible hazards before even bringing baby home. When setting up your nursery, for example, you’ll want to follow the tips below. And safe sleep is important from day one.

Top Hidden Home Hazards

How to Childproof a Bedroom or Nursery

Corded Window Coverings According to the U. S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, corded window coverings are one of the top hidden hazards in homes. While it may not look like it, cords on blinds and shades can present a strangulation risk ‎for infants and young children.

Make sure to check every room in your home for corded window coverings, and keep in mind that it’s easier than ever to go cordless these days! At all major U.S. retailers you can find ‎products marked with the Best for Kids™ certification label, which shows that they’ve gone through third party testing and are designed specifically for use in homes with ‎young kids.

Read more of the latest on window covering safety here

Crib Safety Tips

Before accepting a hand-me-down or pulling out that heirloom crib that’s been in the family for decades, consider that crib safety guidelines have drastically changed to help keep babies safe. Avoid using any crib that’s more than 10 years old, and always ensure that your crib mattress fits snugly in the frame, avoid using crib bumpers, pillows or comforters, and that there are no corner-post extensions or decorative cutouts in the headboard or footboard.

Note that cribs should never be placed near a windowed wall or uncovered outlet. And once a child can push up, check that all hanging crib toys and wall decorations are safely and sufficiently out of reach.

Safer Toy Storage

Toy chests and lidded storage boxes are often staples in children’s bedrooms or playrooms–but hinged or heavy lids can easily jam little fingers and arms or, even worse, fall dangerously on to children’s necks. Curious kids can also get trapped inside of boxes that are easy to get into and difficult to get back out of. Consider open storage solutions for your kids’ toys, games, and clothes, or opt for boxes with spring-loaded support, which helps lids close gently and easily open again.

How to Childproof a Bathroom

Toilet Locks The bathroom introduces a number of safety risks that you likely never considered before kids, and the toilet is first on the list. Believe it or not, a toilet poses a real drowning risk to small children, who may reach in, fall head first, and then be unable to get back out. Touching the inside of the toilet bowl or the toilet water also increases the risk of bacterial infection and chemical exposure. Because of these dangers, it’s important to always close the toilet lid and purchase a toilet lock–which is incredibly effective and easy to install.

Secure Bathroom Storage

With many families storing medications, first aid supplies, and cleaning products in their bathrooms, it’s critical to put child safety locks on any cabinets or drawers within a little one’s reach. And be mindful of step stools and other furniture that may unknowingly grant access to curious kids. Keep trash cans secured or out of reach as well.

Bath and Shower Safety

Bathrooms present a real fall risk–with slick surfaces that are often wet. Be sure to have a non-slip mat in your tub or shower to prevent falls along with an absorbent non-skid rug to dry off on when getting out. Use a bath spout cover to avoid injuries, and always remember to check the water temperature before bathing your baby or toddler. Childproofing Resources With the right measures in place, there’s a whole lot that parents can do to help keep their kids safe at home.

For more childproofing tips and to learn more about window covering safety, visit the Window Covering Council’s website.