The Ultimate Guide To Babyproofing Your Home Safely and Stylishly

It may be daunting to think about all the potential dangers you need to address around your house and yard when you have to look after your precious new baby. Of course, safety must always come first. But do you have to sacrifice style? We’ll show you the most important things to do when babyproofing your house while still keeping your home’s style in place.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), studies indicate that unintentional injuries are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality among children in the United States. Ensure your family stays safe by diligently and thoroughly babyproofing all areas of your home and yard. These days, you can even maintain your home’s style and décor while incorporating safety measures. With today’s wide array of options, and some ingenuity, you can create a safe haven that’s still welcoming and reflects your personal preferences. Here’s how.

When To Start Babyproofing

As a first-time parent, you might think of babyproofing as an overwhelming process you don’t really need to address until your baby is on the move. But it’s never too soon to begin. Evaluating the big – and small – hazards around your home before your baby arrives is a smart move.  

Babies and children can find a way to get into trouble a lot easier and a lot more often than we think. Every new ability shows up without warning, so staying up to speed with your developing baby is crucial. Some of what they do can be entirely unpredictable, counter-intuitive, and even shocking at times.

Infants are curious by nature and learn by exploring the world around them as they develop. And they may encounter danger as they begin to discover their new surroundings. Suddenly, your newborn has learned to turn over! Or your toddler has figured out how to open a window or unlock a door. Sometimes, even the babyproofing items you’ve installed can be foiled by wily, determined preschoolers. 

Babyproofing Pro Tips:

Start planning and making purchases during pregnancy.  

Start preparing your home before your baby begins to crawl and move about. 

There are absolute musts when it comes to babyproofing, such as installing outlet covers and baby gates, but you can assess and adjust what you’ll need as your baby develops in his or her own unique way.  

And while you want to make sure your home is safe for your growing family, you’ll also want to ensure it’s safe for any visiting babies and children. Other kids may be more active or curious than your child when they’re over for playdates, and you’ll want to stay a step ahead.   

The Most Common Household Hazards

When you think of babyproofing, you probably think of outlet covers, adding bumpers to furniture and gating off stairwells. But you might be surprised to learn the primary household hazards that are cause for concern when it comes to baby safety. According to a report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), unintentional injuries are a leading cause of death of children ages 1-4 in the U.S., killing more than 2,500 children every year. Historical data from the CDC points to the following common injuries: 

• Furniture injuries (of all kinds)  
• Burns & electrical injuries (which can occur from heat and hardwired or even battery-operated sources)  
• Falls (from any height) 
• Suffocation (from materials and furnishings) 
• Choking (an unfortunately common hazard)

Some hidden dangers in the home are often neglected. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, the main dangers to be aware of include: 

• Window cords which can tangle (and strangle) 
• Magnets that can be ingested (causing potential life-threatening damage) 
• Furniture that’s large, unstable and/or top-heavy (these can tip over and cause harm or even death) 
• Swimming pools, bathtubs and standing water (where drowning may occur – even at the shallow depth of a single inch!) 

Of course, there are many other hazards to consider. Fortunately, there are so many babyproofing solutions to prevent injuries from happening in the first place. 

Babyproofing Basics for Every Room

Baby Safety Gates 

• Install safety gates at both the top and bottom landings of all staircases. 
• Many gates are adjustable, but some are specifically designed to be tall and/or wide and offer different features (e.g., walk-through, retractable, expandable mesh, folding/portable, etc.)  
• Safety gates generally come with metal, wood or plastic frames 
• Some gates and shields are more design-oriented than others – we love some of the sleek beechwood options we’ve seen — but always ensure that sturdiness and safety comes first.  

Regalo expandable walk-through metal safety gate

Door and Hinge Guards 

• Door foam bumpers (aka “pinch” guards) and hinge guards are used to prevent little fingers from injuries from door openings and closings. 
• Add door handle/doorknob covers to prevent accidental lockouts/lock-ins.  
• If you have any flexible coiled doorstops, make sure they don’t have removeable caps that can pose as choking hazards. 
• Don’t forget to safeguard closet doors, too. 

Window Gates and Guards

• Window gates, guards, locks and alarms can prevent falls and injuries.
• Inspect every window and window screen, and be sure to install and use the guards, locks and alarms as indicated by their manufacturers.

Cord Wranglers

• Secure dangling cords from blinds with cord keepers and cord wraps or install cordless blinds.

Outlet Covers and Cases

• Outlet covers are designed to close off open outlets (the sliding type, are preferable to the push-in plugs, which can be a hazard themselves).
• Outlet cases and surge protector covers can secure outlets and plugs that are in use.

Furniture Bumpers and Drawer Locks

• Foam furniture corner guards and bumpers can soften sharp edges on coffee tables and chair arms, preventing cuts and bruises.
• These come in many options now, including neutral, white and clear that can help maintain the design integrity of that coffee table you love so much.
• Install drawer locks, as needed.

Foam corner guards and bumpers can soften sharp edges to prevent cuts and bruises.

Furniture, Furnishings and Décor Anchors 

• No one wants to imagine the worst, but furniture tipping over is a main cause of injury among growing children.  
• Anchors or straps on heavy furniture like display cases, big TV screens or monitors can help avoid serious accidents and prevent damage that can occur if they tip over or fall from being pulled or pushed or during earthquakes.  
• Secure bookshelves, tall lamps, planters and other unstable items or place them behind more stable furniture, such as a couch.  
• Store any delicate tchotchkes, knickknacks and decorative items safely and use museum “earthquake” adhesive or substantial double-sided tape to secure any displayed on shelves and tabletops.  
• Remove tablecloths, runners and doilies, as these can be pulled down along with anything that’s on them. (That minimal look is in anyway, right?)  

Lamps, Lights & Nightlights 

• Check that your hallways and walkways are well-lit and that the bulbs are working.  
• Make sure all lamps and cords are secured and can’t be pulled down.  
• You might want to install remotes and/or motion- or voice-activated systems.  

Room by Room Babyproofing Checklist 

As you work to make your home safer for your baby, pay attention to the areas you and your child will be frequenting most. The following tips are for specific rooms.  

Nursery/Baby’s Bedroom/Playroom 

The bedroom or nursery is typically the room most parents focus their primary babyproofing efforts on, which makes sense. For those first few weeks and months, your baby will spend a lot of time in the crib, most likely in the nursery. 

Crib safety

Make sure your crib is safety compliant, especially if it was previously used.  

• Check that none of the crib slats are more than 2 3/8 inches apart, maximum 
• Make sure all the bolts and screws are tight and that there are no gaps between the mattress and crib. 
• Note: Drop-side cribs are no longer advised due to many fatalities caused by infants and babies becoming trapped within them. 

Practice safe sleep habits from the start

Co-sleeping: While many advocate co-sleeping, it’s safest for babies to sleep on their own, since Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is the leading cause of death for babies between one month and one year of age, with the most worrisome time being between 2 to 4 months, according to the NIH.  

Sleep position: The Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advises parents to follow the “back is best” rule, keeping the baby on his or her back while sleeping.  

Suffocation prevention

Experts also recommend avoiding suffocation risks by removing loose blankets, comforters, pillows, and stuffed animals or other toys from the crib until babies can sit up on their own. Only use a crib mattress pad and a fitted crib sheet, and mesh liners may be used instead of fabric bumpers. But that’s it. 

Get a Good Baby Monitor

Use a baby monitor to keep tabs on your baby during naptime and when sleeping (some provide audio and others include audio and video). Don’t rely on the monitor or leave your baby alone for extended periods of time. You might want to install “nanny cams” or already have security cameras installed on your property. Some of these in-home camera systems are more sophisticated than traditional baby monitors and offer wireless options. Check on the legal implications of using cameras when someone else is working in your home, and also be sure they are in working order, as needed. 

Safely Position the Crib and Furnishings 

Choose a spot in the room that is away from a window or light source, as window treatments, cords and light fixtures can be hazardous. Set the crib away from heaters, fans, doors and other furniture. Make sure no artwork or other decorative items are above or near the crib. If you install a mobile, set it up high and entirely out of reach. Anchor any furniture near and around the crib to the wall to remain secure, because as your baby grows, he or she will reach and climb.  

Never leave your child alone on the changing table, not even for a second

A baby should never be left unattended or alone when elevated, as falls are one of the most common injuries children experience in the home. Get a contoured, cushioned changing pad with a strap on it or change your baby on the floor. Place baby wipes and supplies where you can reach them from the changing table, but your baby can’t. Position a thick rug or carpet below the changing table, with nonskid pads underneath. 

Monitor toys, indoor play equipment and toy chests

Ensure your baby is playing with age-appropriate toys and activity centers. Many toys can appear harmless but can acutally be a serious choking hazard. Pay attention to manufacturer instructions, read details on labels and watch for any little pieces that can easily detach from a larger toy. Choose toy containers carefully. Only use toy chests or boxes with soft-close hinges or hinge guards and airways/holes (like open handles) to avoid injury or suffocation. And if your baby is using jumpers, highchairs or walkers, they should be under close supervision — most are not intended to be used alone as there is always a risk of injury. 

Secure Big Kids’ Beds 

If you have a restless sleeper or a child on a bunk bed, consider getting bed rails to prevent them from sliding out of bed. Most bed rails fit and work for up to a queen-size mattress and have a breathable mesh screen rails. A quick hack: You can also place a pool noodle under the sheet at the edge of the mattress, as a DIY fix.

Living and Family Room Baby Safety Updates

The living room is another area you and your baby will be spending lots of time in together. It’s essential to make sure this space is also babyproofed, especially as your child becomes more mobile, going from crawling to “furniture-surfing” and, eventually, walking(!) 

Install safety gates wherever they’re needed 

Install safety gates on all stairwells and entrances and lock them every time, even if they’re inconvenient. 

Use furniture bumpers and soft guards 

Soften sharp edges and table corners using soft stick-on guards and covers or use rounded-edge coffee tables versus rectangular or square ones. FYI: Glass tables are more likely to cause injuries.  

Keep furniture from toppling Over with anchors and straps

Secure all large, tall and heavy furniture with anchors and straps. Check shelves, bookcases, TVs and monitors. Don’t place a large/heavy TV where it can be pulled down; be sure to secure it with earthquake straps. You might opt to hire a repair person to install these. 

Take special precautions around fireplaces and woodstoves

If your home has a fireplace or woodstove, you must block your child’s access with gates, fencing, guards or corrals. Use fireplace screens for additional safety, and secure adhesive edge guards/bumpers on the hearth. Of course, never leave a fire going without constant adult supervision. When your fireplace is not in use, keep the flue closed and block off the fireplace entirely. You can even be creative and use it as a “display case” instead, featuring an array of battery-operated candles, for example. 

Playpen Safety is Crucial

• These portable enclosures can help keep your baby and toddler safe, but only when supervised.  
• Don’t let babies sleep in a playpen that’s not designed for napping.  
• Make sure the play structure is set up properly and situated on a stable surface, away from hazards and other furnishings.
• Keep blankets, pillows and soft toys out of the playpens until they’re about a year old (and if health and development is appropriate).  
• For outside use or in muggy climates, you can purchase a mosquito net and/or a canopy for sun protection. 

stair and Banister Shields 

Consider setting up banister shields to prevent your children from getting stuck between the rails. Mesh rail guards provide a sheer look so you can see your banisters but keep your little one from getting caught. 

Bathroom Babyproofing

The bathroom is a major area of safety concern for many reasons and should be used with caution. If possible, keep the door locked from the outside (with the key nearby but out of reach) in order to prevent crawlers from getting inside.  

Stay Alert For Water Hazards

The number one safety issue in the bathroom is standing water. Even if you’re draining the tub or have a small amount of water left in the sink, NEVER leave a baby or child unattended, as even an inch of water can be a drowning hazard. 

Always check the water temperature carefully when preparing a bath 

Scalding water is a leading cause of burning accidents in children. Set your water heater no higher than 120 degrees Fahrenheit (48 Celsius) to prevent scalding. Use your forearm to gauge water temperature, as this provides a more accurate read. It also helps to keep a thermometer nearby to let you know when the bath is ready. Aim for around 100 F for your baby’s bath (38 C), per the Mayo Clinic’s advice. 

Bathroom Supplies for Babyproofing 

To stay safe during bath and potty time, you will want to have the following items: 

• Thermometer for the tub 
• Rubber spout covers 
• Non-slip bathmats, to prevent slips on the bottom of the tub  
• Non-skid absorbent mats, for the bathroom floor 
• Faucet extenders, so washing hands in a sink is an easier reach for small arms 
• Baby bathtub or bath seat (some are inflatable), to help prop up your baby until your child is old enough to use a regular bathtub 
• Kneeling pads, which can be helpful to prevent slips and cushion your knees from injury while bathing your child 
• Cabinet locks for ALL medications, vitamins, toiletries, makeup and personal care and cleaning products. 
• Step stools with a non-skid surface, for toddler safety while washing hands 
• Toddler potties or small toilet seats, so no one’s trying to hop up on the big toilet 
• And a toilet seat/lid lock to prevent horrors 

Additional Bathroom Safety Tips 

• Make absolutely sure that the bathroom door can be unlocked from the outside in an emergency. 
• Secure the windows with guards and locks. 
• Remove all glass from the bathroom. 
• Every bathroom electrical outlet should have Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets installed. These protect people from electrical shock by immediately cutting off electricity under certain conditions. 
• Make sure all electrical devices are unplugged when not in use.
• If you use blow dryers or curling/straightening irons, be careful when they’re in use or still hot.  
• Keep any sharp or small tools, such as tweezers, scissors and nail clippers out of reach.

Faucet extenders to make washing hands for small arms

Babyproofing the Kitchen 

Your baby will be spending lots of time in the kitchen as they accompany and learn from you during food prep and mealtime. 

Prevent burns from the Oven

The most crucial step you must take in the kitchen is to prevent accidental burns.  

• It’s common to carry or “wear” your baby even when trying to cook or simply drink hot coffee, though it may be better not to multitask in these situations.  
• Install stove knob covers (or remove the knobs altogether and put them back on temporarily as needed).  
• Use backburners when cooking. Don’t leave hot cookware or utensils where your child might be able to grab them.  
• Lock the oven door if possible.  
• Have fire extinguishers available in the kitchen and any room that has a fire hazard (fireplace, space heater, etc.)  
• Keep appliances unplugged and out of reach. If you’re using a coffeemaker or other timed device or appliance, make sure babies and children have no access to the kitchen when these may be on.  
• Keep all matches and lighters out of reach.  

Watch for choking hazards

• Use lockable containers for items like beans and pasta in your pantry.  
• Cut food into small pieces and monitor all meals while your child is eating.  
• Your child should be sitting upright and secure when eating and chew slowly, without distractions. 
• Remove all magnets from your fridge as they’re a major choking hazard that can also do serious damage if ingested. Large magnets may break into smaller components. 

Use cabinet locks  

• Install safety locks on cabinets that store potential toxins, such as cleaning supplies (like dishwashing pods), vitamins/supplements and medications. 
• Keep heavy pots and pans, sharp utensils and knives and cleansers and other poisonous substances out of reach. 
• Remember that if a child can see something up high they might want, they are apt to try and climb up to get it, so keep enticing items well-hidden from view.

Pro tip: Create a Kids’ Play Cabinet 

Many parents keep a low-level drawer or cabinet stocked with safe Tupperware, wooden utensils and small pots and pans for little ones to play with to keep them occupied (and out of trouble). Just be sure none of the items have small parts that can be removed or can be easily broken, and ensure the items are not too heavy (if your baby or child can easily lift the item, it’s fine).  

Miscellaneous additional safety tips for the kitchen

• Put locks or latches on the refrigerator, freezer, dishwasher and microwave (if it’s not high up). 
• Remove tablecloths, runners, doilies and placemats, as these can be grabbed and pull plates, food and silverware off the table.  
• Keep spicy ingredients and condiments out of reach.  
• Make sure all alcohol, including liquor, beer and wine (even for cooking, like sherry) is locked away.  
• Any sharp objects, including all knives, utensils and gadgets should be kept up high or locked up.  
• Better to keep all glassware out of reach, and to use unbreakable metal, plastic, wood/bamboo, or paper/cardboard or other compostable dishes and cups.  
• Knot up and dispose of/recycle plastic or paper bags, which can suffocate children. 
• If you plan to hook a highchair to your kitchen table, check that the table is stable, sturdy and strong enough first. Make sure any high-chair or booster you have is in good condition and use the safety features. 
• You might want to get a special safety step stool so toddlers and preschoolers can “help” and learn how to cook, bake and clean while observing you… safely! 

Install safety locks on cabinets

Laundry, Storage Room and General Safety Tips

• Anchor your washing machine and dryer down and ensure they’re locked to keep kids out.
• Always lock the doors to all rooms and exits in your home.
• Door sensors, window alarms and cameras can add another layer of protection, as well as cameras.
• Use cabinet locks or latches wherever it makes sense.
• Turn over any bins, buckets or receptacles that could hold water or other liquids or trap a child.
• Keep all hazardous and flammable materials, like paint or gasoline, detergents (especially pods), cleaning products and chemicals in in an out-of-reach and locked closet, cabinet or cupboard. Radiator fluid, for example, which is usually blue or red, can be intriguing to little ones.
• Lock toolboxes and place all sharp or otherwise dangerous tools well out of reach.

Front and Backyard Baby Safety

• NEVER leave babies or young children unsupervised outdoors.
• Keep ladders, garden tools, hoses and all chemicals locked away.
• Lock up all hazardous materials and motorized equipment in sheds or the garage.
• Keep your fences and gates locked.
• Check your yard for divots, loose tree limbs, thorns, and vermin (such as wasp’s nests and fire ant mounds).
• Cover sandboxes if possible, and inspect for sharp objects, animal droppings and bugs.
• If using an outdoor playpen, make sure it has a shade covering and your baby wears a hat and sunscreen
• Get rid of any poisonous plants and flowers.
• Be extra careful when grilling or barbecuing. Don’t ever leave the grill unattended, and keep fuel, matches, raw foods and sharp utensils out of reach. Don’t let kids near the burners or hot foods.
• Don’t set off fireworks near your house.
• Keep nontoxic bug repellent and a bug bite suction tool handy.
• Maintain all play equipment per manufacturer’s instructions. Check swings and play structures for signs of wear. Check for recalls if anything is pre-owned.
• Trampolines, even covered ones, are a big injury risk. Check your homeowners policy about trampoline-related injury, as many policies don’t cover them.
• Remember that drowning is the leading cause of death for children under the age of four.
• Cover and fence in pools, wading pools, ponds, fountains, water features and hot tubs.
• Ensure all gates are in working order and are locked as required.
• Secure patio furniture, such as umbrellas, which are quite heavy and can topple over.
• Don’t leave furniture on balconies, as children may climb up and fall over.
• Install alarms, cameras and lights where needed.

Parenting can be an exciting, exhilarating and, at times, a challenging journey. Whatever you decide is best for your family, home and lifestyle, always put safety first and stay updated, because revelations about better parenting are never-ending. Don’t let that overwhelm you, though. You got this!

This post was written by Natasha McClain and Ana Taney