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If you’re about to become a parent for the first time, you probably have a lot on your mind. There are so many things that need to be done to prepare for your little bundle of joy – from choosing names to nursery color schemes. But one thing many first time parents don’t consider, is how to ‘baby-proof’ their home. And others may think of it, but put it off knowing that their new baby won’t be mobile for at least a few months, and they’ll have time to do it after the baby is born. But anyone who’s already had their first child will tell you, there will always be something to do when there’s an infant in the home. So it’s wise to take the time before your baby is born, to baby-proof your home.

Here are some handy tips for you to get started baby-proofing your home:

Safety Latches

Install safety latches or closures on all cupboards and drawers. Like most people, you probably store your household cleaning supplies under the sink in the kitchen and bathroom. These products must be inaccessible to curious little ones.

Putting closures on drawers will prevent your little one from getting their hands on sharp items like cutlery, and small items that could pose a choking hazard to your child.

Store medicines in a high cabinet, and do include a latch or lock for good measure. While it’s unlikely that your child would be able to reach a high cabinet in their first year or so, it’s never a bad idea to be extra cautious.

Electrical Outlet Covers

Install covers over all electrical outlets that are not in use. This will prevent little fingers from exploring. The best type of covers to use are those that require two hands to remove, or covers that screw into place.

GFCIs

Replace all outlets with ground fault circuit interrupters so that in the rare circumstance that an appliance falls into water, the electricity will immediately be turned off.

Toilet Seat Lock

Install a toilet seat lock to prevent your child from accidentally falling into the toilet.

Window Guards

Install window guards that will prevent windows from being opened easily by small hands.

Baby Gates

Baby gates are a must if there are stairs in your house. They can also be used to block access to certain rooms in the house so that your baby can never get too far away when your back is turned.

Place Poisonous Plants Out of Reach

Put plants up on high shelves. Even if a plant is not considered poisonous, ingesting parts of the plan could still cause choking. As well if a child is interested in the plant, they may pull the leaves causing the plan to fall on themselves.

Secure Household Cleaning Products

As noted above, all toxic chemicals including cleaning products must be secured in a place where the child will have zero chance of accessing them.

Secure Blind and Curtain Cords

The cords from blinds and curtains pose a serious hazard to young children. Take measures to secure the cords so that they are completely out of reach of your child.

Emergency List

Keep an emergency list next to each phone in the home, and keep one on all mobile phones. Include numbers for 911, poison control, the nearest hospital, the nearest clinic, and the child’s pediatrician.

Summary

There are many things that will need to be done before your baby arrives. Your local Vancouver handyman can help you to baby-proof your home in a few simple steps, which will give you peace of mind and one less thing to worry about when you bring your newborn home.