What is Babyproofing?
Babyproofing (or childproofing), is the process of making your house safe for your little one. It's all about converting your house into a secure place of exploration where your baby can roam without running into trouble.
When Should You Start Babyproofing?
A lot of people ask âwhat age do you need to start babyproofing?â - and itâs a great question.
Experts suggest the best time to start babyproofing is before your baby becomes mobile. Typically, this is around the 6 month mark - when they begin to crawl. Being proactive is key - so donât wait until they're already on the move.
Why is Babyproofing Necessary?
Babies have a natural curiosity, and their exploring can lead to dangerous situations. Babyproofing is essential for preventing accidents and will allow you some peace of mind once your little one is mobile. It's really just about creating a safe environment for your child to navigate and adventure, without unnecessary risks.
How To Make Your Home Safe for Toddlers
As your child grows, so do their abilities (and capacity to find mischief). Toddlers are able to reach higher and get into things they couldnât access before. At this stage it is increasingly important to ensure that cleaning supplies, medicines, and other hazards are securely stored away utilising the best tools for a child-friendly home.
Safety and Convenience
A well-baby proofed home balances safety, convenience and organisation. A little effort early on can save a lot of trouble later, and if your methods are clunky and time consuming - you are unlikely to use them ongoing.
Simple solutions such as using gates to block off stairs and hazardous areas, plus making sure sharp edges are cushioned are 2 of the biggest game changers.
How to babyproof a house?
The hardest thing when starting to look at baby proofing is doing enough, without going overboard. You need the house safe for Bub, but you also need it to still be a functioning home for the family.
When the baby first comes home, obviously they wonât be mobile yet so the âreadiness list is a little smallerâ than it is once they are mobile.
We have created some simple, yet effective checklists to help make sure you have the most common areas covered.
Babyproofing To Bring Baby Home
- Deep Clean the House: Make sure all surfaces are clean and free of dust and allergens.- Check Temperature Control: Keep the home temperature comfortable, maintaining somewhere around 20-22°C (68-72°F).
- Install Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Test them to make sure they are working properly.
- Safe Sleeping Environment: Prepare a crib with a nice firm mattress and no loose bedding, pillows, or stuffed animals.
- Sanitise Feeding Supplies: Sterilise bottles, pacifiers, and any feeding equipment that may be needed.
How to Babyproof a Living Room
- Cover sharp edges: Use edge guards on tables and furniture.- Secure cords and wires: Keep them out of sight and reach.
- Mount the TV: Prevent tipping by securing it to the wall.
- Store remote controls and small items: Use high shelves or locked cabinets.
How to Babyproof a Kitchen
- Lock cabinets and drawers: Use childproof locks for those containing dangerous items.- Secure the oven and stove: Use knob covers and install a stove guard.
- Keep cleaning supplies out of reach: Store them in high cabinets or locked areas.
- Remove tablecloths: Babies can pull them down, bringing everything on the table with them.
How to Babyproof a Nursery
- Choose a safe crib: Ensure it meets current safety standards and remove any soft bedding.- Anchor furniture: Secure dressers and shelves to the wall.
- Install window guards or locks: Prevent falls.
- Make sure small items are kept up high: Keep any small items away from the floor to prevent choking hazards.
How to Babyproof a Bathroom & Laundry
- Use toilet locks: Prevent drowning risks.- Install non-slip mats: Reduce the risk of slips and falls.
- Store medications and cleaning supplies safely: Keep them in high, locked cabinets.
- Keep appliances out of reach: Unplug and store hairdryers, curling irons, and other items when not in use.
How to Babyproof a Bedroom
- Secure heavy furniture: Anchor dressers and bookshelves to the walls.- Keep small items out of reach: Store jewellery, coins, and other small items safely.
- Cover electrical outlets: Use outlet covers or safety plugs.
- Install window locks or guards: Prevent accidental falls.
How to Babyproof an Outdoor Area
- Fence in pools and ponds: Install secure fencing and gate locks.- Lock sheds and garages: Store tools and chemicals out of reach.
- Secure play equipment: Ensure itâs stable and in good condition.
- Remove poisonous plants: Check your garden for toxic plants and remove them.
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So, new mums, let's get ahead of the game! Babyproofing might seem overwhelming, but with a few small changes, you can create a safe, happy space for your little one to thrive.
Here Are Our Recommendations of UpUpnAwayâs Favourite Babyproofing Products.
Paper Towel Holder Stainless Steel
Silicone Wall Mounted Toilet Brush
Broom & Mop Wall Mounted Holder
Happy babyproofing xx