5 Biggest Child Proofing Mistakes

Not all baby proofing is equal. In fact, some child security measures can actually be more harmful than helpful. Find out if you’re guilty of creating unintentional child proofing dangers.

Adding to the Problem

Removable plugs for your outlets are inexpensive and easy to install, but ask yourself if “easy” is worth the choking hazard these plugs pose to your child. Sliding outlet covers are the safer choice – no chance of your little one pulling one of these suckers out and popping it in their mouth.

Ignoring the Obvious

There’s no way your child could knock that heavy piece of furniture over, right? Here’s where paying attention in high school physics would have come in handy: For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. If there’s a weak point in a piece of furniture, your curious, persistent, climbing child will find it. Strap all heavy furniture (and televisions) to the wall to prevent tipping hazards. These are some of the most preventable accidents in your home.

Forgetting About the Bathroom

Chances are, your bathroom countertop is littered with everything from medications to lotions, rubbing alcohol to sharp instruments, all within reach of tiny, grasping hands. And that toilet seat? It’s at just the right height for a little play area. Secure your toilet with a child safety lock and use magnetic child proof cabinet locks to prevent any bathroom cupboard investigating. And don’t bother trying to micromanage the toilet paper – that will keep any toddler busy while you brush your teeth.

Child Proofing Without Child Proofing

Your baby safety monitor is carefully positioned to get the best shot of your beautiful sleeping child. But how close is the electrical wire to the crib? Whether you have a video baby monitor or sound monitor, situate it close enough to do its job but far enough away from your child’s sleep area. Secure any electrical cords to the wall and use wire covers to prevent strangulation.

Breathing Without Thinking

Carbon monoxide is a dangerous reality. Neglecting to install a carbon monoxide detector in your home is like driving without a seatbelt. You hope to never need its protection, but you trust that it’s there. This is one of the most powerful and easiest baby proofing tactics you can take to protect your family, not just your infant. Purchase carbon monoxide monitors and smoke detectors for each floor of your home and install them properly. It only takes a few minutes

Don’t assume you’re your baby will be safe just because you’re right beside her all the time – some accidents are not preventable in the moment, even if you’re glued at the hip.

Childproof the obvious dangers in your home. We never want to say, “I told you so.”