Today, your baby might just be a precious little lump happily lounging in the swing, but before you know it, that little lump will be scooting and crawling, then cruising and walking, and pretty soon after he'll be running and climbing. And even if you're like me and choose to train your child and forgo the baby gates and cabinet locks, there's a bit of babyproofing that every family should do. Here are the must-have changes you should make to ensure your mobile tot's safety.
Read more ¿Qué más?: 6 Easy fixes around the house that will make any paren't life easier
Cover outlets. I will admit that I actually haven't done this, but not doing it meant that I had to spend a couple of weeks intensely training my son not to go near the outlets. Save yourself the hassle, and pick up a pack of covers as soon as your baby starts rolling over. That way, things will be under control by the time she starts reaching and scooting.
Clear out cabinets. If you don't mind letting your little one play with tuppeware and pots, my preferred method for hazard control is to simply remove any dangerous chemicals or breakables from lower cabinets and place them in out-of-reach storage areas, and fill the low cabinets with safe items.
Secure cords. We all know that electric cords are an issue, so of course, make sure they are secured and/or hidden from your baby. But don't forget about the pull cords on mini-blinds or loose curtain tie-backs. These can often be easily reached by cruisers and walkers and are a major strangulation risk. Tip: the little hook that holds the stick you use to open and close blinds, is perfect for draping the cord over so that it can't be reached by a baby.
Remove breakables. So you've already removed breakables from your kitchen cabinets, but don't forget to take picture frames, candles, lamps and other cositas off of your coffee and end tables, or any other low surfaces. Besides the risk of treasured items being destroyed, broken glass and heavy metal and ceramic items, can injure your little one. You can put these things in storage for awhile, or simply move them to a less accessible surface.
Anchor furniture. Any tall furniture–especially items that are top-heavy or can be climbed–should be anchored to a sturdy wall, to keep it from falling on your baby. Furniture wall straps can be purchased inexpensively at most baby and big-box stores, and are simple to install.
Image via Thinkstock
