Becoming a parent is a life changing decision, one that comes with many new experiences, happy memories, and late nights. Bringing home a baby can seem overwhelming, but making sure your house is ready for the new addition will make the transition into parenthood much easier.
When making a baby-proofing to-do list, we recommend addressing one room at a time. This will keep you organized and ensure that no important task gets forgotten.
The Nursery.
Deciding if your baby will sleep in your bedroom or in a nursery depends on your personal preference. Whichever is the case, it’s important to make that space as comfortable as possible for your newborn.
Babies like to sleep in quiet, dark environments, so make sure the room has curtains or blinds and a white noise machine or ceiling fan. If your baby sleeps well you will too, so these are important nursery additions.
It’s also a good idea to double check the safety of the crib you choose. Make sure you get an option that is up to code. Also, remove any stuffed animals or quilts from the crib, because those can be very dangerous to sleeping infants.
Kitchen.
At first, preparing the kitchen is more for you than for your newborn. You will likely be exhausted during the first few weeks of parenthood, and cooking will be the last thing on your mind. Instead of relying on carryout (which can get expensive) prepare by making frozen meals that you can simply reheat for lunch or dinner. Also, designate cabinet or drawer space for bottles so that you always know where to find them.
But before you know it, your baby will be crawling and getting into everything. Be prepared for that moment by installing baby locks on cabinets and drawers. You do not want your curious little one to start playing with dish soap or sharp utensils. Anchoring appliances is also something to consider.
Bathroom/Laundry Room.
Your baby will need different products than you use, so have some on hand before you bring your newborn home. Get baby safe laundry detergent and baby shampoo. It’s also a good idea to pre-stock these rooms with things you need, like toilet paper and your own laundry detergent, so you have one less thing to think about on your next shopping run. And put items like stain remover, cleaning supplies, and medicine up and out of baby’s reach.
Living Room/Entryway.
Secure all large furniture pieces to the wall so that your little one does not accidentally pull down a bookshelf. Also, if an item like a coffee table has a glass top, it may be best to move it until your baby is a little older. And if any furniture piece has sharp edges, line them with protective padding so that your baby does not bump into them and get hurt.
Additionally, install baby gates to keep curious crawlers out of rooms that aren’t baby proof. And be sure to put them in front of staircases to avoid a dangerous tumble.
General Baby-Proofing.
Do a lap of your house to put covers on any electrical sockets that are not being used and hide any cords that you see. You will also want to remove any small objects that could be potential choking hazards.
It’s also a good idea to clean out closets and drawers. Your little baby will have a lot of stuff, and having space prepared for all the toys and clothes will make your life more organized and less chaotic.
If you have a pet, make sure to give it its own area, like the laundry room. Having a baby in the house will be an adjustment for your dog or cat, and it will be comforting for your pet to know it has its own little sanctuary.
And finally, you will thank yourself later if you clean your house before baby comes home. Now is a good time to get your carpets cleaned as well. It will be nice to bring your new addition to a fresh house, and you can enjoy spending time with your new family member instead of worrying about cleaning the kitchen.
Congratulations to all new parents and parents to be! And if you have baby-proofed your home in the past, please share any tips that you have.
Young mother and newborn baby in white bedroom