Many new parents are aware that they need to keep their babies and young children safe from the many hazards in their homes. However, it can be challenging to know where to start and what dangers lurk behind some of those seemingly innocent objects. This blog post will discuss the areas that you should focus on for your baby’s safety. Of course, kitting out your home and your car with baby car seats for peace of mind and your new arrival does not come cheap.
Baby Essentials
Clothing
When choosing clothing for your baby, make sure to avoid clothes with drawstrings. These can easily get caught on things and become a strangulation hazard. Also, be careful of the fabric content, as some can cause skin irritation.
Sleepwear
Cotton pyjamas are a good choice because they are breathable and keep your baby cool during the summer months. Also, ensure that their sleepwear fits well and is not too loose, as this could also lead to strangulation.
Beds And Bedding
When looking for a bed, be sure to do your research on finding the safest baby cradle before purchasing the first one you see. Look for a cradle with a low centre of gravity, so it is less likely to tip over.
As for bedding, avoid using materials like sheepskins and down as these can cause suffocation if your baby curls up on them. Bedding should also be tightly fitted to the mattress and free of any loose ends that could wrap around your baby’s neck.
Furniture And Toys
Some furniture pieces and toys have small parts or sharp edges that can cause injury if swallowed or poked. When selecting furniture pieces, go for those made of solid wood and non-toxic finishes.
Toys should be age-appropriate and have no sharp edges or small parts that could easily come loose. You should also consider natural wooden toys and not plastic toys that contain lead paint.
Indoors
Electrical Cords And Outlets
Once your baby starts to crawl, you will need to be aware of electrical cords, as they can be significant safety hazards for babies if they can reach them. Be sure to keep cords out of your baby’s reach and make sure all electrical outlets are covered with plastic plugs.
Household Cleaning Products And Laundry Detergents
Many household cleaners contain harsh chemicals which can prove fatal if ingested by your baby. Be sure to label all cleaning products as “keep out of reach of children” so you don’t accidentally use one on a child’s toy or furniture piece. Also, ensure all detergents and chemicals are stored safely away from young children who may mistake them for food or drink.
Staircases And Doors
Staircases can be dangerous for young children if they are not adequately supervised. Make sure you install gates at the top and bottom of your stairs and that these are always closed when your baby is unattended.
Doors can also be a hazard for babies as they can easily get trapped between the door and the frame. Install childproof locks on your doors and gates to prevent this from happening.
Outdoors
In The Sun
When taking your baby outdoors, make sure to apply sunscreen even on cloudy days and reapply every few hours. Babies are especially susceptible to the sun’s harmful rays, so it is crucial to protect them as much as possible. Additionally, put a hat on your baby to further protect them from the sun and check for insect bites after being outdoors.
Be aware of potential dangers like hot pavement, stray dogs and cats, and poisonous plants. If you are going to be near water, such as a pool or beach, always keep an eye on your baby and make sure they are wearing a life jacket if they cannot swim yet. Never leave your baby unattended outdoors, even for just a few minutes. An unsupervised child can quickly wander into danger without you knowing it.
Car Safety
Always use a car seat when transporting your baby in a car. Ensure the car seat is installed correctly and that your child is restrained in it properly. Even if your baby is asleep, you should always place them in their baby seat and never hold them in your arms when in the car. Car seats should be replaced every few years, or sooner if they have been in a crash. They don’t have to be expensive either! Especially if you visit Joie babys sale page and similar websites to find the best deals.
Additionally, keep the car clean to avoid exposing your child to any mould or mildew that may have grown on surfaces of dirty seats and floors. Finally, keeping the air vents clear will ensure that fresh air comes into the car for everyone’s safety and comfort.
In Public
When you are in public, be aware of your baby’s surroundings at all times. Teach them early not to wander off and stick close by in crowded areas like theme parks or malls to avoid getting lost in the shuffle. There are many different harnesses and strollers that can be purchased to keep your child secure when in public.
These are just some of the many things you need to keep in mind when creating a safe environment for your baby. By being aware of these dangers and taking steps to prevent them, you can help ensure that your little one stays safe from harm.