Designing your child's bedroom can be an exciting endeavor. Choosing the perfect paint color, upholstery, and accessories aren't the only tasks that should be on your "to-do" list, though. One of the most important things you should do before welcoming a baby into their nursery is to ensure it's as safe as possible. Here are five practical tips to add to your to-do list as you babyproof your baby’s bedroom.
1. Secure the Furniture
When a young child is present in your home, you have to consider factors that you probably never thought about before. One such example is the safety of little ones around your furniture. Sure, when your baby is an infant, it's hard to imagine how a dresser or bookshelf could harm them.
But as they approach toddlerhood, you'll soon realize just how active and mischievous young children can be. For this reason, it's essential that you take the time to secure the furniture in your child's bedroom. Even if it seems nearly impossible for them to move it, it's better to air on the side of caution to prevent an unfortunate accident from happening down the road.
2. Cover Outlets and Cords
When your baby begins crawling, they will be eager to touch whatever they can reach. One of the most common features in everyone's home that is within reach of young children is electrical outlets and cords. To make sure that your little one doesn't hurt themselves when exploring outlets or pulling on cords, be sure to take these precautions as you babyproof your baby’s bedroom:
- Covering all electrical outlets with removable plug-in caps
- Tape any accessible electrical cords and wires behind furniture or cover with a hide-a-cord covering
3. Be Smart About Windows and Doors
Whether you live in a one-story house or a multi-floor apartment, making sure the windows and doors in your baby's bedroom are safe and secure is essential. Start by positioning the crib away from both windows and doors. Always keep the windows in the nursery locked.
Also, be sure to install window stops that prevent the windows from opening more than four inches. For windows with blinds, choose ones with no cord, or alter the pull cord to be as short as possible to prevent strangulation. Don't forget to use doorstops to prevent your baby's tiny fingers from being harmed when they crawl around.
4. Keep the Crib Safe
When it comes to keeping your baby safe in their own bed, there a few important tips to keep in mind, including:
- Crib slats shouldn't be more than 2-3/8" (6 centimeters) apart to prevent your baby's head from getting stuck between them.
- All hardware, such as screws and bolts, should be secured tightly.
- If using an older crib, be sure the side latches are all locked, so they cannot drop down.
- Choose a firm mattress that fits securely in the crib's frame.
- Make sure there is no peeling paint, cracks, or sharp edges on the crib.
5. Invest in a Bookcase Door
The best way to keep your child safe in their bedroom is to have anything that could harm them out of their sight and reach. One way to store items safely away from your little one is to invest in a bookcase door. Stylish, practical, and convenient, a bookcase door is a wonderful way to help babyproof your baby’s bedroom and hide everything from medications and toiletries to pack-n-plays and humidifiers without ever worrying about your little one accidentally hurting themselves. Best of all, a bookcase door can make your child's nursery even more adorable. It provides a wonderful place to display colorful books, toys, and photographs. To find the perfect bookcase door for your child's room, visit Murphy Door online today!
