Protect curious kids from injuries with these preventative steps.
With this newfound mobility, however, your home can suddenly feel full of potential dangers.
Childproofing ensures little ones can move around safely, and you could rest easy.
Photo:Andrey Zhuravlev/ Getty Images
Sharp items, open cabinets, and hot appliances could lead to life-threatening accidents.
What Do you gotta Childproof in the Kitchen?
This is because they become more inquisitive and mobile thus increasing accident risks, she says.
How to Childproof the Kitchen
There are many phases to childproofing a kitchen.
Start by making minor DIY fixes that are affordable and quick.
Cover all electrical outlets with plastic covers or safety plates.
Add stove burner knob covers and foam door stoppers, wherever appropriate.
Also, learn more about the childproofing features already built into your appliances and kitchenware.
Some appliances, particularly newer models, have child safety options.
Usually, this will require a two-step process that will prevent any accidents, even by adults and adolescents.
Use childproof garbage disposal covers and ensure all electronic appliances are stored in a locked space.
Anti-tipping brackets can be used on stoves, wine cellars, bookshelves, and more.
Which Childproofing Tools Work Best?
Some childproofing tricks work better than others.
So, instead, try magnetic locks or latches to keep cabinets and drawers secure.
Corner guards and edge protectors prevent injury from sharp tables and counters.
However, not all childproofing items need to be purchased.
There are some creative DIY options for crafty parents too.
To prevent burns and other injuries, use stove knob covers, baby gates, and appliance locks.
Keep cookware and hot items at the back of the stove, not the front burners.
Keep any pet itemsincluding feeding stations, poop or pee pads, and grooming itemsaway from children’s reach.
Common Childproofing Mistakes in the Kitchen
Childproofing, likechildrearing, never really ends.
Kids of all ageseven children at heartcan unintentionally harm themselves in a kitchen.
So, its important to stay vigilant.
Remember, little kids dont always know an items proper usage, temperature, or weight.
And usually, this is where things take a turn.
Dont consider childproofing a one-time job but an iterative process.
Remember to measure items correctly for get the right size or fit for your doors and appliances.
This will ensure you know the quantities and sizes to purchase.
Hand-me-downs can be very cost-effective.
Don’t leave pots and pan handles facing out so kids can grab them.
