4 Ways To Kid-Proof Your Kitchen
When it comes to designing (or redesigning) your home, there are quite a few factors to consider. First, you have to take the size of the space into account: How large is your kitchen? And what (and how) can you organize to make the most room? You’ll also want to think about the layout, theme (colors and décor), and what updates you can make to create a more contemporary feel.
However, if you’re a parent, knowing how to kid-proof your kitchen is a must (and something that’s honestly often overlooked). From removing hazards to creating ample space for movement, here are a few of our best “kid-proofing” hacks to make your kitchen a useable and safe space for every member of your family.
1. Soften Your Edges
One of the first, and perhaps most important ways to kid-proof your kitchen, is to eliminate any and all sharp edges. These edges are corners of countertops and tables or even cabinets that may be open and unintentionally hazardous if a child comes running into the kitchen at full speed.
You can soften edges in a few ways: if you’re into DIY, you can sand down wooden tables. If you’re not as excited about the do-it-yourself idea (or if your tables are in good condition), you can purchase corner protectors for less than $10 and stick them on those painful edges.
PS: These adhesive or push-on protectors won’t damage any of your wooden surfaces!
2. Kid-Proof Your Kitchen Cabinets & Drawers
When it comes to kid-proofing a kitchen, there are the obvious to-dos: remove dangerous equipment, unplug small appliances, and put anything potentially hazardous out of reach. Beyond that, it’s a good idea to invest in child safety locks or other means of securing your drawers, cabinets, lazy Susans, etc.
While these locks will keep your children from entering, it may still be a good idea to put cutlery, cleaning products, and breakable pots/china in places that aren’t easily accessible if you forget to reattach the lock.
3. Lock & Block Your Stove
Your stove/oven is incredibly dangerous. Not only is there the possibility of opening the oven door but the top stove surface can be hot. And, depending on the age of your child(ren), barely within reach of grabby, curious fingers.
In order to properly kid-proof your kitchen, you’ll want to pay attention to your oven and stove. It may be a good idea to invest in oven locks or other means of keeping your knobs from accidentally turning. Even if the knob doesn’t ignite a flame, gas can be just as dangerous! It may also be a good idea to put something over your stove when it’s not in use, just for added protection.
Another recommendation is creating a distraction for your children while you’re cooking, and, if your child is young enough, securely fastening him or her in a high chair to keep dangers completely out of reach.
4. Eliminate Choking Hazards
Something that’s often overlooked when it comes to kitchen organization and design is potential choking hazards. Here are a few examples: refrigerator magnets, garbage (especially if a can is left open/unlocked), vitamins, detergent, and plastic bags. Be sure to take the time to eliminate, move, or secure these items so that they don’t cause issues in your kitchen.
Whether you’re a seasoned parent or someone who’s just stepping into the world of kids for the first time, these are some (often overlooked!) suggestions. Feel free to share some tips of your own with us, too!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Marisa is a writer/editor, teacher, and bonus mama based in San Diego, California. She’s the founder of two small businesses and loves writing about anything related to career, home, organization, decorating, self-love, relationships, and parenting.
