While having a baby is life changing, the experience can make you recognize that your seemingly safe living space has potential hazards.
Your child will want to explore the entire apartment as soon as he or she learns to crawl. Therefore, creating a safe environment is vital. However, you want to avoid using products that may damage your rental and jeopardize the security deposit.
Bear in mind that baby proofing your rental doesn’t have to be a fearful experience. In fact, these tips can turn your rental into a safe haven for your baby.
Cover or Remove Sharp Edges
Having furniture with sharp edges in a rental that has a baby who’s learning to walk or stand is dangerous. In this case, you may want to exchange your rectangular or square coffee table with a round one.
Alternatively, you could simply remove the coffee table to provide room for the baby to move about on the floor.
In the event that you can’t part with furniture or sharp edges are unavoidable in your living space, you can choose to purchase safety guards to convert sharp corners into soft ones. Although the safety guards aren’t very stylish, they’re worth considering.
Cover Plugs and Corral Cords
Electrical cords are hazardous to children of varying ages, so keep them out of reach and tidy. You should also ensure you tie curtain and blind cords up high and away from the furniture and floor.
If you’re permitted to replace the blinds, opt for cordless products. For electrical outlets, go for plastic-made plug protectors instead of replacing sockets.
If power strips exist in your space, buy covers for them as well. Don’t forget that the knobs on ovens and stoves can rouse curiosity in children, so place covers as a precaution.
Curtain Cords
The lengthy loops of curtain blinds or cords have proven to be hazardous and experts have become more diligent in warning new parents of the frequently overlooked danger. For this reason, it’s important you keep these cords out of the way by fixing a small hook up on the wall.
The hook doesn’t have to be large and you can opt for the peel and stick variety to avoid damage. However, it must be secure. Another alternative is to buy covers for curtain cords or even talk to the landlord about switching window treatments for your child’s safety.
Shift House Plants
Kids enjoy playing in the dirt and a potted plant is the ideal playground for toddlers and babies. Therefore, eliminate any houseplants on the floor or those that are within reach.
You can place them outside if the weather is warm enough or you could find a different location, for instance hanging them from the ceiling.
Lock Doors, Windows, and Drawers
Fortunately, there are numerous options for drawer and door child-safety locks that won’t damage your rental. Use them for knobs, kitchens, and bathrooms where water could be hazardous.
Ensure you lock kitchens and bathroom cabinets as well as the toilet itself. Cabinets comprising cleaning chemicals are also dangerous, so it’s advisable you store them in upper level cabinets. Windows can be hazardous, so move furniture away, particularly in the child’s room and install locks.
Final Thoughts
Baby proofing your apartment is important for child safety, though it can be more challenging in a rental. Nevertheless, these tips will keep your rental safe provided you’re willing to invest time and exercise patience.
For more information on how to baby proof your apartment, contact us at Apartment Agents or leave suggestions.