Ultimate baby-proofing guide: must-have products for newborn to 5 years

When it came to childproofing our home, we took a gradual, step-by-step approach based on our child’s age, mobility, and developing skills. Instead of rushing to childproof everything at once, we focused on what was immediately necessary. During the first few months, when the baby wasn’t moving much, there was little urgency. Slowly, we added more safety measures as she became more mobile, though we haven’t always been the best at keeping up

Baby proofing for newborn to 6 months

• Babies are mostly immobile, but they start rolling over and can reach out for things near them.

Proofing Needs:

• Outlet Covers: To prevent shocks from curious fingers.

• Edge & Corner Guards: Sharp furniture edges can be dangerous as they start moving.

• Cord Winders: Loose cords pose a strangulation risk.

• Safe play area: Create a safe play area for baby to do tummy time, practice rolling, standing, pulling on to things without bumping their head.

Additional measures:

• Store away small, breakable items: Babies will soon start grabbing objects, so fragile items should be stored out of reach.
• Keep plants away: Some houseplants can be toxic if ingested.
• Secure blind cords and curtains: Make sure cords are out of reach to prevent choking hazards. Don’t forget to keep the bed away from the windows.

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Baby proofing for 6 to 12 months

• Crawling, pulling up, standing, and cruising. Babies can now explore their surroundings more actively.

Proofing products:

• Cabinet & Drawer Locks: Babies love to open drawers and cabinets, so lock away cleaning products, sharp objects, or choking hazards.

• Baby Gates: Prevent access to dangerous areas like stairs.

• Furniture Wall Straps: As babies pull themselves up, furniture like bookshelves or dressers should be secured to the wall to prevent tipping.

• Stove Knob Covers: They may try to turn knobs as they can now reach higher surfaces.

Additional measures:

• Move breakable and heavy objects from low surfaces: Babies can start pulling things off tables.
• Store plastic bags out of reach: They pose a suffocation hazard.
• Check for small objects on the floor: Babies often put things in their mouths, so ensure the floors are clear of small items like coins, buttons, or small toys.
• Lower crib mattress: Babies who can pull up may attempt to climb out.

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Baby proofing for 12 to 24 Months

• Walking and climbing. Increased curiosity leads to opening drawers, climbing onto furniture, and exploring higher areas.

Proofing products:

• Door Knob Covers: Prevent babies from entering rooms they shouldn’t, such as the bathroom or storage closets.

• Toilet Locks: Keep bathroom areas off-limits to avoid water hazards.

• Fireplace Protection: Padded hearths prevent injuries from sharp or hard edges around fireplaces.

• Window Guards: With babies now able to reach windows, guards prevent falls.

• Stove and refrigerator door locks: Toddlers start opening the stove and fridge doors

Additional measures:

• Store medications, chemicals, and cleaning supplies in high, locked cabinets.
• Move furniture away from windows: Prevent climbing hazards that can lead to falls.
• Cover trash cans: They may start exploring trash cans and ingesting harmful objects.
• Strap down TVs and heavier appliances: Large items like televisions should be secured to prevent tipping if climbed on.

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Baby proofing for 24 Months+

• More independent exploration. Climbing, running, and opening doors and drawers are common as toddlers become more adventurous.

Proofing products:

• Sliding Door Locks: Keep sliding doors leading to patios, balconies, or outside locked.

• Appliance Locks: Secure appliances like refrigerators and ovens.

• Cords hiders: can help with child-proofing as cords can cause strangulation

• Stove Guard: Prevent children from reaching hot stove surfaces or pots and pans. I haven’t used one myself, so can’t really recommend, but here are some products.

• TV Mounts for Child Safety: Prevent children from pulling down the TVs.

Additional measures:

• Avoid tablecloths and runners: Toddlers may pull them down, leading to spills or heavy objects falling on them.
• Store choking hazards (coins, batteries, small toys) out of reach.
• Remove plants and small furniture that can be used as a climbing step: Toddlers may climb on furniture to reach higher objects.
• Keep bathrooms locked when not in use: Toddlers can access toilets, bathtubs, and cleaning supplies in bathrooms.

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General tips:

1. Storing Fragile and Hazardous Items: Breakable items, sharp tools, and toxic substances should be stored in high places or locked cabinets.
2. Securing Heavy Furniture and Appliances: Ensure that bookshelves, dressers, and TVs are securely strapped to the wall.
3. Supervise at All Times: No amount of baby-proofing can replace active supervision, especially around water, kitchens, and stairs.
4. Set Up Safe Play Areas: Create safe, enclosed spaces where your baby can play freely, like using a play pen, ensuring there are no sharp or hazardous objects.
5. Create a Pet Safety Plan: If you have pets, ensure they have a separate space and teach your child to interact safely with animals.
6. Move from the kitchen countertop any sharp objects: For example moving the block of knives to a higher shelf or a cabinet with a lock.
7. Plan for Emergency Situations: Ensure you have fire alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, food poisoning and emergency contact numbers handy.