When should I start baby-proofing my house?

Start baby-proofing by 4-6 months, before your baby becomes mobile. Most babies start rolling at 4 months and crawling by 7-10 months. Getting ahead of mobility gives you time to address hazards without rushing. Start with the rooms where your baby spends the most time.

What are the most important things to baby-proof?

Top priorities are outlet covers, cabinet locks (especially for cleaning supplies and medications), stair gates, furniture anchoring to prevent tip-overs, blind cord safety, and securing heavy or sharp objects. The leading causes of childhood injury at home are falls, poisoning, and burns.

How much does it cost to baby-proof a house?

Basic baby-proofing costs $50-$150 for DIY supplies (gates, outlet covers, cabinet locks, corner guards). Professional baby-proofing services charge $200-$600 depending on home size. The most expensive items are typically stair gates ($30-$80 each) and furniture anchoring kits.

Planning Tools

Baby-Proofing Checklist

Go room by room and check off safety items as you baby-proof your home. Covers kitchens, bathrooms, nurseries, stairs, and more — so you can crawl-proof with confidence.

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Install cabinet locks on lower cabinets

Move cleaning products to high cabinets

Use stove knob covers

Keep knife block out of reach

Secure trash can with a lock or move behind a locked door

Use back burners when cooking

Shorten or tie up appliance cords

Install oven door lock

Set water heater to 120°F (48°C) max

Use toilet seat locks

Put non-slip mats in tub

Lock up medications and toiletries

Never leave water standing in tub or buckets

Move razors and scissors out of reach

Install cabinet locks

Anchor bookcases and TV to wall

Cover electrical outlets

Install corner guards on sharp furniture

Secure blind cords or switch to cordless blinds

Move small objects out of reach

coins, batteries, magnets

Use a fireplace screen or gate

if applicable

Check for choking-size items under furniture

Use a firm, flat mattress with fitted sheet only

no blankets, pillows, or toys in crib

Keep crib away from windows and cords

Anchor dresser and changing table to wall

Install window guards or stops

Cover outlets

Keep small items off changing table

Use a baby monitor

Install gates at top AND bottom of stairs

Use wall-mounted gates at top of stairs

not pressure-mounted

Keep hallways clear of tripping hazards

Ensure adequate lighting

Lock garage door access

Store chemicals, paints, and pesticides on high shelves

Keep laundry pods locked up

they look like candy to kids

Unplug power tools when not in use

Install smoke detectors on every level

Install carbon monoxide detectors

Post Poison Control number (1-800-222-1222)

Have a first aid kit accessible

Check for recalled products

cpsc.gov

Secure heavy furniture to walls

anti-tip straps

Keep batteries locked away

especially button batteries

Cover doorstops or replace with one-piece bumpers

This checklist covers research-backed safety essentials — adjust based on your home's layout and your child's age and mobility.

Common Questions

When should I start baby-proofing my house?: Start baby-proofing by 4-6 months, before your baby becomes mobile. Most babies start rolling at 4 months and crawling by 7-10 months. Getting ahead of mobility gives you time to address hazards without rushing. Start with the rooms where your baby spends the most time.
What are the most important things to baby-proof?: Top priorities are outlet covers, cabinet locks (especially for cleaning supplies and medications), stair gates, furniture anchoring to prevent tip-overs, blind cord safety, and securing heavy or sharp objects. The leading causes of childhood injury at home are falls, poisoning, and burns.
How much does it cost to baby-proof a house?: Basic baby-proofing costs $50-$150 for DIY supplies (gates, outlet covers, cabinet locks, corner guards). Professional baby-proofing services charge $200-$600 depending on home size. The most expensive items are typically stair gates ($30-$80 each) and furniture anchoring kits.

For educational purposes only — not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your pediatrician with questions about your child's health.