Tips for Child-Proofing Your Home
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Furniture and Décor
“Get down on your hands and knees to view your home from a child's perspective,” suggests Julie Vallese, consumer safety expert for Safety 1st. “This is the best way to begin childproofing because seeing the world from their view opens your eyes to potential dangers that may otherwise be hidden.”
Many furniture items are safety hazards because of the risk of tipping on top of curious toddlers, who inevitably try to scale them. Vallese suggests anchoring all furniture, such as bookshelves and dressers, either to the floor or the wall. Consider removing topple-prone items such as coat hangars and lamps until children are older.
Reduce the use of cords as much as possible, especially during infant and toddler stages. Secure electrical cords with a tie and place the cords behind a desk or dresser. Baby monitor cords should never be placed inside or within three feet of a crib.
Window treatment cords can also pose a tempting hazard to infants and toddlers, who view them as playthings. Opt for more child-friendly cordless products. “Cordless cellular shades are a sleek and modern option that can be easily raised and lowered with a gentle lift or pull," suggests Tracy Christman of Budget Blinds. To retrofit existing blinds, safety products such as spring assisted clutches or cord stops are a budget-friendly alternative to increase safety.
Don’t risk waiting until your child demonstrates a need for safety solutions. Baby-proofing a nursery early will ensure that all safety measures are already in place for all stages of development.
