When Should You Start Baby-Proofing?
Start baby-proofing before your baby starts crawling — usually around 6 months. Babies move faster than you expect, and it's much easier to prepare in advance than to scramble when they're already mobile.
Room-by-Room Baby-Proofing Checklist
Living Room
- ✅ Add soft foam corner guards to coffee tables, TV units, and shelves
- ✅ Secure heavy furniture to the wall to prevent tipping
- ✅ Keep remote controls, coins, and small objects out of reach
- ✅ Cover all electrical sockets with socket covers
Kitchen
- ✅ Install cabinet locks on all low cupboards — especially those with cleaning products
- ✅ Use back burners on the stove when possible
- ✅ Keep the bin out of reach or in a locked cupboard
Bathroom
- ✅ Always empty the bath immediately after use
- ✅ Keep medicines, razors, and cleaning products locked away
- ✅ Use a non-slip mat in the bath
Stairs & Doorways
- ✅ Install a safety gate at the top and bottom of all staircases
- ✅ Use door stoppers to prevent finger-trapping
South African-Specific Safety Tips
- Pool safety is critical — South African law requires a fence around all pools. Ensure the gate is self-closing and self-latching.
- Domestic worker awareness — ensure anyone caring for your baby knows the safety rules and where hazards are.
- Load shedding — keep torches and candles out of baby's reach during outages. Never leave candles unattended.
Shop Baby Safety Products at Cradle of Joy
Browse our full Baby Care, Safety & Health collection including safety gates, socket covers, cabinet locks, and corner guards — delivered across South Africa with free delivery on orders over R500.