The kitchen is the focus of any house, however, a house with children is potentially dangerous for anyone in that kitchen. Childproofing is not as basic as putting a blanket over the sockets or not placing hazardous items within a child’s reach. Specifically, potential dangers are present in the kitchens, such as hot surfaces, heavy items, and toxic chemicals. This guide provides useful recommendations to increase the level of security in the kitchen and avoid potential accidents for toddlers and pets and for the whole family to have a good time and feel safe.
Installing Safety Locks for a Childproof Kitchen
Child safety locks are a perfect solution for curious kids and for making your kitchen childproof. They can effectively store knives, cleansing equipment, and other dangerous things away from children. The following are some of the locks that won’t harm your cabinets in any way: Adhesive strips, Magnetic locks, Cords, etc.
Childproofing the Fridge and Freezer
If you place the locks or latches high enough, your child will not be able to open the fridge or the freezer anymore, and this will also minimize the chances of getting into an accident, such as choking. When children are much older and able to pick snacks, organization is important. Organise items such as sauces and juices in a way that the children cannot reach them easily due to their height. You may consider installing drawers or inserts at the bottom of the fridge for children’s snacks, perhaps drawing lines that separate safe zones for the child and no-go areas.
Childproofing Electrical Appliances and Hazards
Any appliance that has to be plugged in has a risk factor when children are present. It is very important to switch off kitchen appliances such as a toaster, blender, coffee maker, and food processor once they are used. If space is available, store these items in locations not easily accessed, or use cord reducers or covers for outlets.
Microwaves should be positioned in a closed cabinet or in a wall if it is not installed at a higher place where your child cannot access them.
Of all the kitchen elements, the garbage disposal is one of the most hazardous. If renting, cover the drain and put a cover on the light switch. In a home you own, you can install a batch feed system, meaning the disposal will only run when it is covered.
Preventing Stove and Oven Injuries: Keeping Kids Safe in the Kitchen
If you do not want your child to be scalded by hot water, make sure that the handles are facing the inner side of the stove in case a child runs by the stove and knocks a pot of boiling water. In a way, a stove guard can be useful for rather inquisitive kids who a simple warning will not easily dissuade. This plastic or metal enclosure helps to prevent toddlers from turning on a hot cooktop while you are moving around the kitchen.
For even more added security for your child, maybe an oven lock can be used to avoid burns from hot oven racks, fingers being pinched by the oven doors, or head injuries from the pulling of the door. As for stove and oven knobs found within a toddler’s grasp, stove knob covers should suffice to prevent the knobs from being turned.
Childproofing the Dishwasher: Preventing Accidents and Messes
Furthermore, it is necessary to install a lock on the door of a dishwasher, and it is also extremely important not to open it and leave it open when children are around. Though they may remove it and drop it, making a mess, there is the danger of cutting oneself with sharp items such as knives. To add to safety, do not add detergent until the dishwasher is set to run. It is poisonous and can cause severe poisoning if taken by children.
Preventing Accidents with Stove and Oven Knobs
To avoid accidents, disable the stovetop or oven by removing the knobs which toddlers can easily turn on. If necessary, store the knobs in a container. Or, use stove knob covers to prevent the knobs from being turned, for added safety measures as well.
Using a Stove Guard for Added Safety
if you enjoy the art of preparing meals in the kitchen but have always had a hard time keeping your children away from the stove then a stove guard might be the answer to your prayers. They come in different styles and are fixed around the stovetop so that only tall people can access the stove. Some are made of plastic and others of metal grates and are very useful in preventing the little ones from wandering off.
Childproofing the Fridge Water and Ice Dispenser
In case there is no design solution that includes a locking mechanism, the following is a quick and easy fix; build a cover over the dispenser area with magnets and heavy paper. Trim the paper to cover the buttons and dispenser so that your child cannot get to it.
Securing the Trash Can from Toddlers
You may not think the trash needs to be childproofed, but some young children need it! When attempting to stand up with their hands on objects, children might grab a light trash can, and it will fall over. One way is to just buy a trash can that is heavier than the typical plastic one and comes with a lid to minimize spills. If that is not possible, then it may be wise to place the trash can in the garage or any other place that the child cannot access.
How to Protect Your Child While Cooking
Baby watching while preparing meals can be quite challenging, hence the need to have the baby safely in a playpen or car seat nearby. When your baby is much younger, a bouncer or a highchair can help you as your baby watches you prepare meals. When they start growing and crawling, getting a playpen in a corner of the kitchen makes it easy for them to move around but still under your supervision. As soon as your baby starts walking, it may be useful to install gates to block certain areas, so that your baby can roam freely around the house but remain within your sight. When they are a little older, a countertop platform is also a good idea to incorporate them into cooking as they start to!
