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Before your baby arrives, there are so many things you will want to do. Preparing for the baby goes beyond the birthing classes and setting up the nursery. Once the baby is getting close to arriving, many moms like to know how to count contractions. Bloomlife is a smart contraction timer and helps mom prepare for the final step to giving birth.
Experts agree the best way to baby proof your home is to crawl around on the floor as if you were a toddler. This is about the only way you can be sure you don’t miss anything.
There are so many things a baby can get into that would harm them, that it is a good idea to practice baby proofing on a continuous basis. At least once a month, practice a crawl through your home to make sure there aren’t any new hazards for your toddler.
The best way to remember to continue to baby proof your home is to perform it on your baby’s date of birth. Each month you count how many months old they are. This is a good reminder to make sure your baby is safe.
Here are 4 ways to make sure your home is safe for a new arrival.
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Electric Outlets
All homes have electrical outlets, some with appliances, lamps, computers and other items plugged into them. These are not as dangerous to small children as an empty plug.
Use outlet covers to block a child from putting their small finger or other items into the electrical wall outlet. They come in a variety of colors, however, one that matches the outlet plate is suggested so it blends, and it will not be noticed by a curious child.
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Falling Items
In conjunction with covering the electrical outlets, it is important to make sure items already plugged into the wall cannot be pulled down on top of your baby. As you cover the open outlets, take a look at the appliances that are already plugged in and see if you can anchor them in some way.
Use heavy-duty tape to secure electrical cords to the bottom of tables and against the walls. This will help in the prevention of having something falling on top of your child.
Make sure small kitchen appliances are not stored on a cart or shelf where a baby can pull them down. Even if the appliance is not plugged into a wall socket, it could still harm them.
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Cabinet and Drawer Locks
There are many different styles of cabinet locks that parents can place on various doors and drawers to help keep their baby safe. When purchasing these types of door blockers, choose ones that you can comfortably open. A simple lock will work as well as a complicated one.
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Kitchen
Not only will you need to get cabinet and drawer locks, but you will need to purchase special locks for the refrigerator, oven, and pantry.
The locks of the refrigerator door are typically easy to install and can be uninstalled once your baby grows into a teenager. Locking the pantry is essential, not necessary to keep your baby out of the food. But to avoid having them pull cans down on their head.
Also, lock up any cleaning products as these are the most dangerous to young children.
