How to Childproof Your Home Room by Room

Childproofing requires securing furniture, covering outlets, installing safety latches, and removing hazards in each room based on the specific risks present.

1. Lock Down the Kitchen First. Install cabinet locks on all lower cabinets, especially those containing cleaning supplies, sharp objects, or breakables. Secure the refrigerator and dishwasher with appliance latches. Install stove knob covers and oven locks. Place outlet plugs in all electrical outlets. Install drawer slides or locks on drawers containing knives or other dangerous items. Consider a baby gate to block kitchen access entirely for very young children.
2. Anchor Furniture and Edges. Anchor tall furniture like bookcases and entertainment centers to the wall using furniture straps. Install corner guards on sharp table edges and fireplace hearths. Secure loose cords behind furniture or use cord covers. Install outlet plugs on all accessible electrical outlets. Remove or secure small decorative items that pose choking hazards. Install safety latches on any storage furniture containing items children shouldn't access.
3. Eliminate Water and Chemical Risks. Install toilet locks to prevent drowning hazards and keep children from playing in toilet water. Place cabinet locks on all bathroom cabinets containing medications, razors, or cleaning supplies. Install faucet covers to prevent head injuries. Use non-slip mats in tubs and showers. Install door knob covers or hook-and-eye latches high on bathroom doors to prevent unsupervised access. Secure medicine cabinets with safety latches.
4. Secure Furniture and Windows. Anchor dressers and changing tables to walls. Install window guards or stops to prevent falls. Secure blind cords out of reach or use cordless window treatments. Install outlet plugs on all outlets. Remove or secure small items that could be choking hazards. Install door knob covers on closets containing dangerous items. Ensure cribs meet current safety standards with slats no more than 2.375 inches apart.
5. Gate All Stairway Access Points. Install baby gates at both the top and bottom of stairways. Choose hardware-mounted gates for the top of stairs rather than pressure-mounted ones. Ensure balusters are spaced no more than 4 inches apart. Install outlet plugs throughout hallways. Remove or secure loose rugs that could cause slipping. Install night lights to improve visibility during nighttime movement.
6. Isolate Hazardous Appliances and Chemicals. Install appliance locks on washers and dryers to prevent children from climbing inside. Secure laundry detergent and other chemicals in locked cabinets or on high shelves. Install outlet plugs on all outlets. Consider installing a door lock or baby gate to prevent access to the entire area. Secure any tools or cleaning supplies in locked storage.
7. Perimeter Security and Hazard Removal. Install pool fencing with self-closing, self-latching gates if you have a pool or spa. Secure gates leading to streets or dangerous areas. Install outlet covers on exterior outlets. Secure or remove garden tools and chemicals. Check playground equipment for sharp edges, loose bolts, or other hazards. Install window well covers to prevent falls. Consider fencing around gardens with toxic plants.