One of the things that will surprise you about your baby is just how curious they can be. As soon as they begin crawling around, they will reach out and grab objects as they try to learn about the world around them. Unfortunately, this exposes them to plenty of hazards lurking around your house.

The good thing is that you can baby-proof your house and ensure it is a safe environment for your infant. From a baby’s perspective, pushing buttons, tugging on items, putting everything in their mouths, and playing with various objects are all developmentally appropriate. You must keep them out of harm’s way by baby-proofing the entire house.

Here are some baby-proofing techniques to help make your house safer for your little angel.

1. Electrical

Plate covers, guards, and plug protectors are crucial when you have a crawler in the house. They help prevent your child from sticking their fingers or other items inside electrical outlets. You should also use cord-shortening devices to deal with dangling electrical cords and hide them using wide electrical tape or cord covers.

2. Stairways & Banisters

Safety gates at both ends of a staircase will help prevent your child from accessing the steps. You should also use safety netting to cover handrails on steps, balconies, and decks to ensure your toddler never falls and gets stuck there.

3. Locks & Latches

Use door handle locks or doorknob locks are ideal because they aptly fit over door levers or door knobs and typically require the two parts to be squeezed or pressed together to open. Only an adult with big hands can open such locks. You should also avoid door stoppers with rubber tips since toddlers can easily pull them apart and swallow them. 

4. Drawers & Cabinets

Replace the locks currently installed on your cabinets and drawers with adjustable ones. You should also move any cleaning products, small appliances, or choking hazards you have stored in them to higher shelves.  There are also exterior latches available to prevent the drawers and cabinets from being opened by children.

5. Baby Gates

Installing baby gates is one of the most effective ways of childproofing your house. Babies are naturally curious and will crawl into every space they can reach. Baby gates prevent them from entering rooms they shouldn’t enter or crawling up and down the stairs. 

6. Fireplace

You should never leave your baby unsupervised in the kitchen with a lit fireplace. Glass or screen doors offer inadequate protection since screens tip over and could fall onto other sharp or heavy items. Glass can also heat up to dangerous temperatures. You should use a childproof and heat-resistant lock to secure hot ovens.

7. Windows & Doors

Safety guards can help prevent your windows from opening more than four inches, except those needed for emergency escape. If possible, install windows that open from the top only. Ensure you also use door jammers to prevent your little one’s fingers from being trapped by the door.

8. Furniture

Crawling babies normally use furniture and other objects around the house to support themselves. Use edge cushions and furniture corner guards to prevent head bruises, bumps, and injuries. Ensure you also secure or move heavy or wobbly furniture to prevent it from toppling and hurting your baby.  

Ensure a Safe Environment for Your Little One with Precious Baby Protectors

The best way to protect your child from various dangers around your house is by maintaining eagle-eyed supervision. However, kids can be surprisingly quick and creative when exploring their environment. This is why you must do whatever you can to ensure your house is safe and comfortable for your little angel. The safety experts at Precious Baby Protectors offer the highest quality safety services and products and can help to baby-proof your home. Contact us today for a safety evaluation or to get a quote.

Image Credit: Zhuravlev Andrey , Shutterstock