You’ve got a new addition to your family – or you’re expecting one soon. Congratulations! There is a lot to do to prepare, including getting your home ready for your new baby.
Here’s a checklist to help better prepare your home for your new little bundle of joy.
In the Bedroom
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- Take strings off of the bottom of sleepers (clothing) so they don’t get wrapped around baby’s toes. Check all clothing for loose buttons that could be swallowed.
- Remove mobiles when the baby can sit on his or her own.
- Adjust the mattress so it’s in the lowest spot when the baby can pull up to a standing position.
- Store creams and smaller objects that your baby could fit in its mouth up high and out of reach.
- Place a protective cover on all unused outlets.
- Wind or wrap electric cords so that babies cannot pull on them, causing lamps or other appliances to fall.
- Wrap or tie up drapery cords so they are out of reach. Use cordless window blinds if possible.
- Make sure all heavy furniture, like drawers and desks, are anchored to the wall to prevent them from falling over.
In the Kitchen
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- Make sure high chairs are sturdy and tray latches are secure.
- Install cabinet locks so when the baby starts exploring, little fingers won’t get into the contents.
- Install appliance locks so baby can’t pull open an oven or dishwasher door.
- Use a stove guard that attaches to the front and blocks knobs so that curious kids can’t turn them on.
- Store cleaning products out of reach of baby. Store them safely up high or behind a secured cabinet. Similarly, keep any alcohol out of reach.
- Keep all knives, cooking utensils, smaller appliances, and glassware safely stored away in cabinets or drawers.
- Consider a child safety look on pantry doors to keep curious kids away from unopened groceries.
In the Bathroom
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- Set your water heater to 120 Fahrenheit or below to prevent burns. Or install an anti-scald device on your tub’s faucet.
- Use nonslip mats for the bathtub and any tile floors or hard surfaces.
- Put a rubber spout cover on the tub faucet to protect from bangs or bruises.
- Replace any bathroom trashcans that do not have lids.
- Make sure the toilet seat has a protective lock and that it is never left up for the baby to fall in.
- Store away fragrances, razors, soaps, styling tools, makeup, etc. out of reach.
In the Laundry Room
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- Get a child safety lock for your washer and dryer doors so that curious toddlers cannot crawl inside. (Some newer models may include safety locks.)
- Store bleach and detergent pods out of reach. While they look good enough to eat, pods can be poisonous.
- Use a lock on the laundry room door to prevent curious crawlers from exploring, especially when machines are in use.
- Never leave hot irons or steamers plugged in.
More Throughout the Home
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- Mount any heavy furniture to the wall so it doesn’t tip. If you can’t mount your television, secure it in a cabinet.
- Block staircases with a hardware-mounted baby gate to ensure it stays put. Pressure-fit gates may not. Know that safety gates are designed for children ages 6-24 months.
- Install window guards to prevent babies and toddlers from falling out of open windows.
- Add furniture padding to pointy corners on coffee tables, kitchen counters, and other places.
- Remember that toddlers will pull themselves up on furniture so ensure that it is secure.
- Install pinch guards to protect little fingers from getting pinched in doors.
- Cover any open outlets with child-safe covers.
- Keep chargers and any other cords stored away and out of reach.
- Make sure anything breakable, like decorative vases, glass photo frames, or indoor planters are placed safely out of reach.
- Make sure the doors on your fireplace remain closed and that you use a protective gate to keep the baby at a far enough distance away.
As a new parent who cares about safety, you’re going to be great. Enjoy your new arrival!
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
California Casualty specializes in customized auto & home / renters insurance for Educators, Firefighters, Peace Officers, Nurses, & Higher Education Employees. Learn more about our exclusive features and benefits. Get an online quote or give us a call at 1-866-704-8614 today.
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