There are so many things to do when preparing your home for a baby. Take a peek at this checklist for everything you need to be baby safe.
Living Room
Install shades without cords.
Secure all furniture to the wall with bolts and a locking strap.
Install a guard door over the fireplace.
Remove any tablecloths and placemats so your child does not pull them down.
Add bumpers to all sharp edges like your coffee table.
Hide lamps behind furniture.
Ensure your child does not accidentally run into large windows by marking them with stickers at their eye level.
Separate the stairs with a baby grate.
Kitchen
Keep all appliances unplugged when possible and out of the reach of your baby.
Add plastic stove guards to burners.
Cover/block access to floor heaters and radiators.
Lock up all utensils, especially knives and heavy pots.
Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen but make sure it’s out of your little ones reach.
Keep any pet food stowed away when it’s not time for your pet to eat.
Secure your oven door with a latch.
Keep cleaning products in cabinets that have child locks, and preferably on higher shelves.
Bathroom
Install a toilet lock.
Check your water heater and adjust it to no more than 120 degrees. You can also invest in an anti-scald device that would attach to the end of the spout or faucet.
Put all medicines/vitamins/supplements out of babies reach. Install a lockable medicine safe.
Cover the tub’s spout and knobs to protect babies head in the tub.
Keep any cords, like the ones on flat irons and blow dryers, neatly wrapped and stored away.
The Nursery
Avoid cribs with a drop-side.
Opt for a toy box that has no lid to ensure no slammed fingers.
Cover outlets with sliding covers instead of the plastic ones which can be a choking hazard.
Make sure baby monitors are far from the crib and preferably cordless.
Once your child is able to sit up or get on their hands and knees, remove any hanging toys or mobiles. Also, lower the mattress position.
Cribs should be empty of everything. No bumpers, toys, pillows or blankets.
