Baby Proofing Checklist- Now That They're Crawling
Baby Proofing Checklist- Now That They're Crawling
Baby Proofing Checklist
Is your little one growing up faster than you ever imagined? Most babies will start crawling around 8 to 9 months and once they start crawling, they will inevitably get into everything they aren't supposed to.
Here is a quick room by room checklist to help you get your home ready for your little explorer. (This is by no means a complete list, each home is unique, but it's a good starting point)
Bathroom
NEVER leave your child unattended in the bathtub, even for a second.
Thermometer or safety products to test the water temperature will prevent burns.
A toilet lid lock will keep them (and all of your possessions) out of the toilet water.
A soft or inflatable faucet cover in the bathtub will prevent them from hitting their head on sharp or protruding faucets.
Bedroom
Keep cribs clutter free and make sure the mattress is now at its lowest level.
If using a nightlight, look for ones that are completely enclosed and prevent children from reaching in to touch the bulb.
Crib railing covers will prevent children from chewing on crib edges.
Doors/Hallways
Door knob cover or top of the door locks will keep children in (or out) of certain rooms.
Any door leading to the outside should be secured with a lock that is out of reach, such as a chain lock or dead bolt.
Pinch guards will keep doors from pinching little fingers.
Install gates in areas that should be off limits. There are walk-through gates and retractable gates for easy adult access.
Only use gates specified for stairways at the top of stairs. These should be hardware mounted only.
Electrical
Cover all outlets- there are many different types of products for this now, they've come a long way from the little plastic plugs that just end up all over your home.
Secure loose wires with cord control kits.
Keep power strips and hot ballasts out of reach.
Make sure televisions are secured to the wall! This one is often overlooked, and those flat screen or large/thin televisions fall very easily and could severely injure a child.
Furniture
Secure top heavy furniture, like bookcases and dressers to wall studs.
Banister covers can prevent children from getting between balusters on stairwells or porches/decks.
Kitchen
Think hot or poisonous- secure these first, then secure the things you don't want broken.
Cabinet and drawer latches come in all shapes and sizes now. There are magnetic locks, locks that can be installed with adhesive, or inexpensive hardware installed options- just to name a few.
Oven locks will keep children from pulling the oven open.
Stove guards can keep children from reaching up onto the stove.
Fridge guards will keep kids out of the refrigerator.
Windows
Secure all the window blind ties so they are not a strangulation risk. There are blind chord winders that work great for this.
Use window locks or wedges to prevent children from pushing up a window and falling.
It seems overwhelming, but once you have everything "babyproofed" you'll be able to relax and watch your little one discover his or her world, safely!
About the Author:
Danielle Zufelt is a mother of two young boys and the owner of The Baby Proofing Shop, an online store selling all of the latest products to baby proof your home. Find all of the products mentioned in this checklist at www.babyproofingshop.com
http://www.articlesbase.com/babies-articles/baby-proofing-checklist-now-that-theyre-crawling-3775376.html
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