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Baby Proofing: 10 Things to Do Once Baby Starts Crawling

Carey Schaal
Written By Carey Schaal
Writer + Editor
Original Publish Date: Jun 29, 2024, 10:24 PM
Last updated: Aug 6, 2024, 12:46 PM
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When your little one starts to crawl, it’s a moment filled with excitement and pride. But with this new milestone comes the need to ensure your home is safe for their curious exploration. Just like when you prepared your home for their arrival, now it’s time to think about what could pose a danger to your newly mobile baby. From hidden hazards you might not have considered to essential safety upgrades, baby-proofing is crucial. Let’s dive into the important steps you need to take to create a safe environment where your baby can roam freely and securely.

Why Baby-Proofing is Essential

Baby-proofing is about creating a safe space for your infant to explore without constant supervision. As babies grow, their curiosity and mobility increase, leading them to discover every corner of your home. While this exploration is vital for their development, it also exposes them to potential dangers. Everyday items and household features that seem harmless can pose serious risks to your child. Baby-proofing minimizes these risks, allowing your baby to explore safely and giving you peace of mind.

Secure Furniture

You might think your furniture is sturdy, but a determined baby can surprise you with their strength and curiosity. Once your baby starts moving around, anything within reach becomes fair game. Heavy furniture like dressers and bookshelves can be a real hazard if they tip over. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, furniture tip-overs send thousands of children to the ER each year, so securing these items is crucial. Anchoring these pieces to the wall with furniture straps is a simple and effective way to prevent accidents. It may take a bit of time, but knowing that these potential hazards are secured will bring immense peace of mind to parents.

Lock Away Hazardous Items

When babies start crawling, they become mini detectives, opening every drawer and cabinet they can find. Our under-sink cabinet, filled with cleaning supplies, was a prime target. Use child-proof cabinet locks to secure cabinets and drawers containing cleaning supplies, medications, and other dangerous substances. I also moved medicines and other hazardous items to high shelves. It might seem inconvenient at first, but knowing your baby is safe from harmful substances is well worth it.

Install Safety Gates

 

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Think of safety gates as your baby’s personal security detail. They are lifesavers for keeping your baby out of harm’s way. Install them at the top and bottom of stairs and use them to block off hazardous areas like the kitchen. Make sure to choose gates that mount securely to the wall for extra peace of mind—these babies aren’t going anywhere, even if your little one leans on them with all their might.

Cover Electrical Outlets

Curious babies love to explore every nook and cranny, and electrical outlets are no exception. Using outlet covers or safety plugs is a quick and easy way to prevent electrical shocks. These covers are inexpensive and easy to install, but they provide significant peace of mind. I have them fitted in every outlet my kids can reach. Doing this will allow your baby to crawl around without constantly worrying about the risk of an electrical shock.



Manage Cords Safely

Cords from blinds, curtains, and electronic devices are often overlooked but can pose a serious hazard. Cord-related incidents are common and can lead to strangulation, so keeping cords secure is a must. In our home, we had cords from blinds hanging low enough for our baby to reach. I immediately secured these with cord shorteners, making sure they were well out of reach. The same went for the cords of our lamps and other electronic devices. It might seem like a hassle to tie up all these cords, but it’s a small price to pay for ensuring your baby’s safety.

Bumper Pads for Sharp Corners

As your baby learns about their new world, they’re bound to bump into things. Soften the edges of furniture with bumper pads or edge guards to protect against injuries. Focus on tables, countertops, and other furniture at your baby’s eye level to ensure they can explore safely. Coffee tables usually have sharp corners that are right at eye level for a crawling baby. And there are so many other pieces of furniture around the house that can become hazardous for toddlers.

Eliminate Small Choking Hazards

Babies explore the world with their mouths, making small objects a choking hazard. One of the scariest moments I had was when I found my baby with a coin in their mouth. It was a stark reminder of how easily small objects can become choking hazards. Regularly check your home for small items like coins, small toys, and other tiny objects that could be dangerous. Keeping these out of your baby’s play areas is essential for their safety.

Choose Safe Toys

Toy safety is a top priority in our house. I always check the age recommendations on toys and make sure they don’t have any small parts that could break off. Pick toys that are age-appropriate and made from non-toxic materials. Regularly inspect them for wear and tear and discard any broken toys immediately to prevent them from becoming hazards. This might seem tedious, but it’s essential to ensure your baby’s playtime is both fun and safe.

Create a Safe Play Zone

Designate a special play area for your baby with soft mats or rugs to cushion any falls. Ensure this space is free of hazards, allowing your baby to explore safely. Creating a dedicated play area has been a game-changer for us. We set up a corner of the living room with soft mats, a few favorite toys, and nothing that could pose a danger. A space like this will give your baby the freedom to crawl, roll, and explore without constant supervision. Plus, it gives parents a little break knowing that they’re in a safe, confined area!

Stay Vigilant

The key to effective baby-proofing is staying vigilant. Supervise your baby, especially in new environments, and continually reassess your home for new hazards as your baby grows. Babies are constantly learning and finding new ways to get into things, so keep adjusting your safety measures to stay one step ahead.

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Carey Schaal
Carey Schaal
Writer + Editor
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