Baby Proofing Checklist: A Practical Starting Point

How to Use This Checklist

Get down on your hands and knees and crawl through each room. You'll see hazards at your baby's eye level that standing adults miss entirely. Work through one room at a time and check items off as you go.

Living Areas

• Anchor heavy furniture and TVs to walls (tip-over risk)
• Cover unused electrical outlets
• Secure cords from blinds and electronics out of reach
• Remove or pad sharp coffee table corners
• Install safety gates at stairs — top and bottom

Kitchen

• Install cabinet locks on lower cabinets with cleaners or sharp objects
• Use stove knob covers or remove knobs when not cooking
• Keep small appliances and their cords off counter edges
• Store plastic bags and choking hazards out of reach

Bathroom

• Keep medications and toiletries in locked cabinets
• Never leave a baby unattended near water — even inches
• Set water heater to a safe temperature per official guidance
• Use non-slip mats in tub and on bathroom floor

Nursery / Bedroom

• Follow current safe sleep guidance (see our safe sleep resources)
• Ensure crib meets current safety standards — check CPSC for recalls
• Keep baby monitors and cords at least 3 feet from crib
• Secure changing table supplies and never leave baby unattended on it

Garage & Outdoor Areas

• Lock garage doors and store chemicals, tools, and fertilizers out of reach
• Check pool and water features meet local safety requirements
• Inspect outdoor play equipment for stability and splinters

After You Check Off the List

Baby proofing is ongoing. As your child grows, new hazards appear — climbing, opening doors, reaching higher shelves. Re-walk your home every few months.

For official guidance beyond this starting list, visit our baby proofing resources page.

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Disclaimer: This page provides links to official resources only and does not constitute medical or safety advice. Guidelines change over time — always verify current recommendations through official channels and your pediatrician.