Your baby just started crawling. Now, their little hands will explore every corner of your house. Although their curious eyes are excited to discover new things, it could become a safety concern if they’re not properly monitored.
Just imagine- What if your little one accidentally bumps into the sharp edges of your home furniture? What if those annoying mosquitoes bite your baby and cause severe fever or other health risks? Sounds scary, doesn’t it? This is where babyproofing your home becomes essential! From using high-quality mosquito nets to securing furniture corners, following a few tips can help protect your little one from major accidents.
Let’s discuss the importance of babyproofing your Indian homes and essential tips to keep your little one safe and happy.
Why is Babyproofing Important in Indian Homes?
Homes have everything, from traditional furniture to open electric sockets, which can be harmful to your little one. Therefore, babyproofing your living space is crucial in such situations.
India has a hot, humid climate, which is a breeding ground for mosquitoes. When your child starts exploring all corners of the house, they are likely to get bitten. Because these mosquitoes are notorious for causing malaria and dengue, it’s important to protect your baby from such diseases.
Electrical Outlets & Wires
Once your baby starts crawling, electrical sockets are within their reach. You may never know when your baby puts their finger into a working switchboard, which could be life-threatening. Furthermore, your child can tangle themselves with hanging wires, which can lead to choking or a serious injury.
Indian homes generally have furniture with pointed edges. While furniture in the home is important, babies who have started crawling or walking may bump into sharp edges. Remember that even a minor hit can cause a severe head injury or painful cuts. Thus, babyproofing your home is crucial to keep such risks at bay.
Since your little one is now curious to learn more about the house, they might find out your medicines or cleaning supplies, such as Phenyl, dishwashing liquid, and more. If your baby accidentally consumes it, it could even risk their life.
Indian rooms often have limited space due to multiple pieces of furniture, decorative items, and other objects. Thus, it can be challenging for your baby to move around. Furthermore, it can increase the chances of your little one bumping into any furniture or even getting stuck in small gaps.
What are the Essential Babyproofing Tips for Indian Homes?
Bayproofing your home is all about preventing the risks and creating a safe environment for your little one to grow. Here are the essential babyproofing tips for Indian homes.
Keep Mosquitoes & Insects Away
Mosquitoes can pose a serious health risk to your little one. Always keep doors and windows closed in the evening. Furthermore, don’t use chemical-based mosquito repellents in your home. Instead, opt for natural and paediatrician-recommended alternatives. For improved protection, use mosquito nets over windows and cribs.
Electrical points are dangerous for your little one. Always use socket covers or safety plugs on low-lying outlets. If your home has multiple loose wires, try to bundle them with cable protectors. Furthermore, keep charging devices or mobile phones out of your baby’s reach.
Furniture with pointed or sharp edges is common in Indian homes. Always use corner guards on furniture edges for maximum protection. Don’t place heavy items on tables that your baby can easily pull and get injured. Furthermore, you can rearrange your furniture to manage space better and reduce the risk of injury.
Prioritise Bathroom Safety
Slippery bathroom surfaces can cause injuries. If your baby has started walking, always keep the bathroom door closed. For better protection, use anti-skid mats and keep all toiletries out of your baby’s reach. Furthermore, if your child is in the bathtub, monitor all their activities to avoid accidents.
These are the high-risk zones in Indian homes, and many parents have reported that the majority of accidents occur in these areas. When it comes to the kitchen, keep sharp utensils, knives, and cleaning products out of your baby’s reach. On the other hand, in balconies, reduce railing gaps so your little one can’t go through them.
Babyproofing your home is the best way to protect your little one from accidents. From mosquito nets to furniture corners, keeping these babyproofing tips in mind will ensure your baby can explore, learn, and grow.
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FAQs on Babyproofing Indian Homes: From Mosquito Nets to Sharp Corners
- When is it the right time to babyproof my home?
Once your baby starts crawling or rolling over, you should babyproof your home as soon as possible. - Are mosquito nets safe for my baby?
Yes, mosquito nets are completely safe for your baby. However, you should check that they don’t restrict the airflow. - How often should I check my babyproofing setup?
It’s ideal to check your babyproofing setup once a month to ensure everything is perfectly fitted.
Disclaimer: Medically Approved by Dr Megha D. Kadam, Consultant- Neonatologist and Paediatrician, SPARSH Hospital, Hennur Road, Bangalore
