Babyproofing Your Home

Before your child begins to crawl, use this helpful checklist of household precautions to make your home a safe place for your growing baby.

In This Feature

Household Baby Hazards

  • Electrical outlets: Hide behind furniture or cover with plastic caps.

  • Electrical cords: Wrap up the slack and place them out of reach. Try hiding them behind furniture.

  • Doors: Keep doors locked and make sure screens are locked and there are no holes or gaps.

  • Tables: Cover sharp corners with homemade or store-bought corner guards.

  • Curtains and blinds: Don't let ties or cords dangle. Keep baby's playpen or crib away.

  • Floors: Keep floors clean and vacuumed. Small objects can end up in a small child's mouth and cause choking.

  • Windows: Use window guards on high floors. Make sure all windows are securely locked at all times.

  • Furniture: Fix and repair all wobbly furniture and make sure all knobs are securely tight. Position furniture so that it can't be pulled over, and keep dresser drawers closed.

  • Walls: Make sure the paint in your house is lead free, especially if it was built before 1978. Call 1-800-LEAD-FYI to get a paint chip analyzed.

  • Garbage: Secure garbage behind a latched door or make sure it has a tight secure lid.

  • Other appliances: Install appropriate latches to any appliances in your little one's reach.
find more about:
Your crash-course in all things baby.
watch more videos