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Top 10 Child-Proofing Hacks for a Safe and Stylish Home

By
Real Estate Agent with House Stories

If you have kids or are expecting one, you know how important it is to child-proof your home. But you don't have to sacrifice style or spend a fortune to make your home safe and comfortable for your little ones. In this blog post, we'll share some of the best child-proofing hacks that will help you create a kid-friendly space without compromising on design.

1. Cushion Sharp Edges with Foam Pipe Insulation

Coffee tables, cupboards, and bookcases all have sharp edges and corners that might cause serious injury. Protect yourself and others by padding the sharp edges with foam pipe insulation. Foam pipe insulation may be found in a wide variety of sizes and colors, and it is inexpensive and simple to install. You may easily trim it to size and secure it in place using tape. In this manner, both your kids and your furnishings will be safe from harm.

2. Use Tennis Balls to Cover Pointy Corners

Another simple and cheap way to child-proof your home is to use tennis balls to cover the pointy corners of furniture, such as chairs, stools, and desks. All you need to do is cut a hole in the ball and wedge it onto the corner. This will create a soft and colorful bumper that will prevent injuries and add some fun to your decor. You can also use other balls, such as ping pong balls or golf balls, depending on the size of the corner.

3. Prevent Bathtub Slips and Fall

Baby Bathtub

One of the most dangerous places for kids to be is in the bathroom, especially when it comes to slipping and falling. One of the main problems is the tap, which can cause major head injuries if a child hits it while bathing. To stop this from happening, you can use Sugru, a material that can be shaped like play dough and sticks to almost any surface. You can make a unique tap cover out of Sugru that will protect against accidents by absorbing shocks. Sugru is also waterproof, long-lasting, and easy to remove, so you can use it for other things too.

4. Keep Kids in Their Crib with a Fabric Strip

If your baby is constantly climbing out of their crib and getting hurt in the process, you can try this clever hack: sew a two-inch-wide strip of fabric between the legs of their pajamas. This will create a barrier that will prevent them from swinging one leg over the crib railing and hoisting themselves out. Make sure the fabric strip is not too tight or too loose, and that it doesn't interfere with their comfort or mobility.

5. Use Pool Noodles as Door Stoppers

Pool Noodle

Doors can be a source of trouble for kids, especially when they slam them shut or get their fingers caught in them. To prevent this, you can use pool noodles as door stoppers. Pool noodles are cheap, flexible, and easy to cut. You can slice them lengthwise and slide them onto the edge of the door, creating a soft buffer that will keep the door from closing completely. You can also use pool noodles to cover the door knobs or handles, making them harder for kids to open.

6. Keep Window Cords Out of Reach

Window cords are another potential hazard for kids, as they can pose a strangulation risk or cause them to fall out of the window. To keep window cords out of reach, you can use clothespins to clip them up high on the curtain rod or wall. This will keep them away from curious hands and prevent accidents. You can also use other items, such as binder clips or Velcro strips, to secure the cords.

7. Make a Homemade Teething Guard for Your Crib

Teething babies like to chew on everything they can find, even the crib rails. This can hurt their teeth and gums, and it can also hurt the crib. You can make a biting guard at home out of fleece fabric and bows to protect your baby and the crib. You can cut the cloth into strips and tie or snap them around the crib bars. This will give your baby a nice, soft place to chew on that won't hurt them or the crib.

8. Manage your garbage can

Garbage Sorting

One of the most overlooked aspects of child-proofing your home is managing your garbage can and waste management. Garbage cans can attract bugs and smell bad, and they can hold dangerous things like glass, metal, or chemicals. To keep your kids safe and healthy, keep the trash can out of their reach and throw away your trash the right way. By taking a few simple steps, you can do this on a budget. First, get a trash can with a lid that locks or snaps shut, or put it in a locked cabinet or room. To stop germs and mold from growing in your trash can, you should empty it often and wash it with soap and water. Sort your trash into recycled material, compost waste, and unrecyclable. Use different bins or bags for each group.

Final thoughts 

Remember to prioritize safety measures such as securing furniture, covering electrical outlets, and preventing access to hazardous areas. Additionally, consider incorporating design tips to create a kid-friendly interior that is both beautiful and functional. Try these child-proofing hacks and enjoy peace of mind while your children explore and grow.

 

Show All Comments Sort:
Wayne Martin
Wayne M Martin - Oswego, IL
Real Estate Broker - Retired

Good morning Aaron. We are phasing out of child proofing as my granddaughter ages. That said window cords are still of high interest and thus kept out of her reach. Enjoy your day.

Jul 17, 2023 03:33 AM
Charles Ross - eXp Realty (Salina Group) | Broker
Salina Group - Salina, KS
Love To Help People

Excellent post.Thank you for sharing. Have a wonderful day and a blessed week

 

Jul 17, 2023 05:32 AM
Richard Weeks
Dallas, TX
REALTOR®, Broker
Great information, thanks for sharing.  I hope you have a great day.
Jul 23, 2023 09:37 AM