Eight Upgrades That Are Necessary When You’ve Got a Toddler at Home

When your baby transitions into toddlerhood, everything changes. This is a time when curiosity peaks and your little one starts exploring every nook and cranny of your home. While this phase is exciting, it also requires you to be vigilant and proactive in making your home safe and comfortable for your growing child. Simple adjustments and upgrades around the house can help prevent accidents and ensure that your toddler can explore freely. 

Here are eight necessary upgrades every parent should consider.

1. Childproofing Sharp Corners and Edges

Toddlers are naturally prone to falls as they learn to walk and explore their environment. This makes sharp corners and edges on furniture particularly hazardous. A simple stumble can lead to painful bumps and bruises or, worse, a serious injury. To prevent this, installing corner guards and edge protectors on furniture is crucial. These are usually made from soft materials like foam or rubber, which absorb the impact of any accidental bumps. Corner guards are easy to install and come in various sizes and designs to match your furniture. Proper installation is key to ensuring they stay in place and provide effective protection for your toddler.

2. Replacing Old, Worn-Out Doors

Old doors in your home can pose several risks to a toddler. Splinters from deteriorating wood, heavy doors that might slam shut, or doors with faulty locks can all lead to accidents. Replacing these doors not only improves the safety of your home but also enhances its overall security. When choosing replacement doors, consider options that are safer for a home with a toddler. Soft-close doors, for instance, prevent slamming, reducing the risk of fingers getting caught. Make sure the doors have built-in safety locks to keep your child from wandering into unsafe areas. Also, remember that it is essential to have these doors installed by professionals to ensure they are properly fitted and functional, providing peace of mind for parents.

3. Installing Safety Gates

As your toddler becomes more mobile, it’s crucial to control their access to certain areas of the house. Stairs, kitchens, and bathrooms are particularly hazardous zones. Installing safety gates at the top and bottom of staircases and the entrance to potentially dangerous rooms can prevent accidents. There are various types of safety gates available, from pressure-mounted to hardware-mounted options, each suitable for different areas of your home. It’s important to choose gates that are sturdy and tall enough to deter your toddler from climbing over. 

4. Upgrading Electrical Outlets and Wiring

Electrical outlets are often at eye level for toddlers, making them a tempting target for exploration. Exposed outlets and outdated wiring can be extremely dangerous. Upgrade to tamper-resistant outlets, which are designed to prevent objects from being inserted. These outlets have a built-in mechanism that only allows a plug to be inserted when equal pressure is applied to both slots simultaneously. Covering unused outlets with safety plugs adds an extra layer of protection. 

5. Securing Windows and Blinds

Windows and blinds can be quite hazardous for toddlers. Low-hanging blind cords can become a strangulation hazard, while unsecured windows can lead to falls. To prevent these dangers, consider replacing traditional blinds with cordless options or installing cord shorteners. Window locks and safety bars can also be installed to prevent your toddler from opening windows and potentially falling out. These measures are particularly important for windows that are low to the ground or located in play areas. 

6. Reinforcing Furniture Stability

As toddlers grow more adventurous, they often try to climb on furniture, which can be extremely dangerous if the furniture is not properly secured. Large items like bookshelves, dressers, and televisions can easily tip over if they are not anchored to the wall. This poses a serious risk of injury, especially to a curious toddler who might use furniture to pull themselves up or explore. The best thing you can do to prevent such accidents is to reinforce the stability of all large furniture in your home.

Start by using furniture straps or wall brackets, which can be easily attached to the back of the furniture and then secured to the wall. These devices are designed to keep heavy items from tipping over, even if a child tries to climb them. 

7. Updating Flooring to Prevent Slips

Slippery floors are a common cause of falls, which can be particularly dangerous for toddlers who are still mastering their balance. In areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and playrooms, where spills and moisture are common, it’s important to have non-slip flooring to make the home more comfortable and safer for your child.

There are several options for non-slip flooring, including non-slip tiles, rubber mats, and carpeting. Non-slip tiles are ideal for bathrooms and kitchens as they provide a durable and water-resistant surface that reduces the risk of slipping. Rubber mats are another excellent choice for play areas, offering a soft, cushioned surface that can absorb the impact of a fall. Carpeting, while providing warmth and comfort, should be low-pile to reduce tripping hazards. 

8. Adding a Safe Play Area

Creating a designated play area for your toddler is one of the best ways to ensure they have a safe space to explore and play. A safe play area should be free from sharp objects, small parts that could be choking hazards, and anything that could cause injury. This space should be designed to encourage learning and exploration while keeping your child safe.

Start by installing soft flooring, such as foam mats or padded carpets, to cushion falls. Padded walls or corner protectors can also be added to prevent injuries. If space allows, consider setting up a playpen or a gated area where your toddler can play safely without the risk of wandering off into more dangerous parts of the house. Keep the area clutter-free and regularly check for any potential hazards. A safe play area not only provides peace of mind for parents but also fosters a sense of independence and creativity in your toddler.

Create a Home Where it’s Safe to Grow!

Ensuring your home is ready for a toddler is about more than just safety—it’s about fostering an environment where your child can thrive, explore, and grow with confidence. Each upgrade you make is an investment in their well-being, giving them the freedom to discover the world around them in a secure space. As parents, creating a home that adapts to your child’s needs not only protects them but also allows you to cherish these formative years without the constant worry of potential hazards.