Published August 5, 2025

Baby-Proofing Your Home: A Practical Guide for New Parents and Homeowners

Written by Nick Good

Welcoming a new baby into your home is one of life’s most joyful milestones. But let’s be honest—it's also one of the most nerve-wracking. Crawling, climbing, pulling, tasting… your little explorer will test every inch of your space.

At The Good Home Team, we know a home isn’t just a place to live—it’s where your family should feel safe. Whether you’re a new parent or preparing your home for the grandkids, here’s a practical guide to baby-proofing your home.

Start with a Parent’s Eye View

The best way to spot hazards? Get on their level!

Crawl around your living room and see what they see.
Look for sharp corners, loose cords, and tempting cabinets.
Imagine where tiny hands will reach.

Your Room-by-Room Baby-Proofing Checklist

We want to make this easy for you. Here’s a room-by-room cheat sheet you can save and share.

🏠 Living Room & Common Areas

Cover outlets with secure, tamper-resistant plugs.
Anchor furniture (bookshelves, TVs) to prevent tipping.
Soften sharp edges with corner guards on coffee tables.
Tidy cords using wraps or covers to avoid strangulation risks.

🍳 Kitchen

Install cabinet locks for cleaners and sharp objects.
Use stove knob covers to prevent little chefs from turning burners on.
Keep knives and appliances well out of reach.
Lock trash cans or use a baby-proof model.

🛁 Bathroom

Toilet locks keep curious hands (and toys) out.
Non-slip mats reduce fall risks in tubs and on tile.
Store medicines and cleaners in high, locked cabinets.
Set water heater to 120°F or lower to prevent burns.

🛏️ Nursery & Bedrooms

Crib safety: No pillows, bumpers, or stuffed animals with sleeping infants.
Secure furniture to walls, including dressers.
Cordless window coverings avoid strangulation hazards.
Baby monitors for peace of mind.

🚪 Stairs & Doors

Install baby gates at top and bottom of stairs.
Door knob covers limit access to rooms you want off-limits.
Secure pet doors if they lead outside.

🌳 Outdoors & Yards

Check fences and gates for gaps or loose latches.
Lock pools or spas with childproof barriers.
Store chemicals (fertilizers, pesticides) well out of reach.

Baby-Proofing Isn’t One-and-Done

Your baby-proofing will evolve as your child grows.

What works for a crawler won’t stop a toddler. And before you know it, they’re tall enough to reach countertops!

Check gates and locks regularly.
Re-secure furniture as kids get bigger.
Stay ahead of new skills (like climbing onto the dining table).

Don’t Aim for Perfect—Aim for Safer

Here’s our biggest piece of advice as fellow parents and North Texas neighbors:

You’re not going to make your home 100% danger-proof. And that’s okay.

Your goal is to reduce the biggest risks, so you can enjoy these amazing early years with a little less worry.

Our Final Tip? Don’t Stress!

You won’t catch every hazard, and that’s okay. The goal is to reduce the biggest risks so you can focus on what really matters—making memories with your growing family.

If you’re buying or selling a home with little ones in mind, The Good Home Team is here to help you find the right fit. We’re North Texas locals who know what families need, and we’d love to guide you through every step of the process.