If you’re expecting, expect to baby proof your house. Don’t worry, it’s not that bad. There are some wonderful products out there that are easy to install and will give you peace of mind!
No one likes to baby proof. It takes time, money, and usually adds an extra step to every day tasks. The good news? There are a lot of easy installation, low stress products that will keep your baby safe while being easy for you to use.
This is a round up of some of the basic necessities. These are cool products that will give you peace of mind. Some of these you’ve heard of and other ones may be new.
We’ve selected highly rated, dependable products. If you currently use or choose to use any of these, let us know what you think in the comments!
Some products have been included as a sponsored inclusion – however, all opinions are 100% our own.
Magnetic Cabinet Locks
Magnetic cabinet locks are the best. These are ideal because they’re so easy to access.
Simply install the lock on the backside of the cabinet. Then hold the magnetic “key” up to the lock to un-lock. These work for not only cabinets, but also for drawers.
Make sure to keep your key close by (many chose to stick in on their fridge or on a nearby magnetic board). Still, it makes for quick access when you need it and no access when your baby is around. There’s a 20-pack available on Amazon, along with other brands.
What We Like:
- You can adjust the lock to keep it unlocked for a longer period of time
- Budget friendly
- A lot easier to use than traditional cabinet locks
- They work really well!
What We Don’t Like:
- You have to keep track of the magnet
- It can be a little annoying to keep having to use the magnet lock over and over again
UrbanAugust Fridge and Cabinet Lock
This first one is heavy duty! This Max Lock from UrbanAugust is super sturdy and dependable. It’s also affordable! It comes equipped with a 3 digit combination to make sure your kids stay safe from french-door refrigerators or dangerous cabinets.
Use this with cabinets that will be storing cleaning chemicals or heavy dishware. The best part is installation. There’s no drilling or adhesive. Plus, this has been tested on hundreds of fridges to ensure that it fits on yours! This comes in at just under $14. You can buy them on their website or on Amazon.
What we like:
- Very effective
- Inexpensive
- No tools required
- Compatible with many different french door style refrigerators
What We Don’t Like:
- You have to memorize a code
- It is pretty big and not super aesthetically pleasing
Clear Museum Gel
This is such a cool product! This is an adhesive that sets and then keeps decorations tight and secure. Put it on the bottom of vases, plants, or any decoration. Because of its clear coloring, it blends right in. It secures items from being knocked over. Plus, it can be removed and reused! Buy this on Amazon for just under $12.
What we like:
- Easy to use
- Doesn’t stain furniture
- Makes it easier to have breakables around babies!
What We Don’t Like:
- Might work TOO well – some people complain that they have trouble getting the items up again!
PRObebi Outlet Covers
Outlet covers are one of the most basic baby proofing items. However, they’re easy to pull out, making them ineffective. These outlet covers require an extra step of pulling down and out in order to remove them. They’re super affordable too and they blend right in with the outlets! Amazon offers a 38-pack.
What we like:
- Very kid proof
- Inexpensive
- The ring handle design that makes it easy for remove (for adults)
- Made with high quality materials
What We Don’t Like:
- Some complain about them being TOO hard to remove and broke when they finally got them out.
Clear Stove Knob Covers
These are another necessity! Stoves can be super dangerous, so covers for the stove are a good idea. I love these ones because they are clear, so they blend in better. These work on a hinge. Simply unhinge the cap to turn your stove off or on. They keep your kids out but are easy for you to access when you need to.
What we like:
- Easy to turn to be able to use knobs
- Clear – more aesthetically appealing
What We Don’t Like:
- Some complain that the covers are too small, others complaint hey are too big!
- Complaints of not sticking on correctly
Transparent Corner Protectors
Corner protectors are a must. Even as an adult, I still battle with the edges of furniture! These clear protectors are stylish and effective. If you need to remove these and place them elsewhere, remove them with no damage to your furniture.
These gel-like protectors will be great at protecting your baby (or you) from the sharp corners of furniture. If for any reason you’re not satisfied, CalMyotis offers a full-refund for the first months! Check it out on Amazon. Just $10 for a 12-count.
What we like:
- This brand has a good money back policy
- Work well with various designs
- Work well
- Damage Free
What We Don’t Like:
- Some think they aren’t soft enough
U-Shaped Safety Locks
These are another way to keep the kids out of the cabinets. This U-shaped lock is a tried and true lock. These are made of plastic and bind together your cabinets. You simply unlock by squeezing the lock to gain access. These are super easy to install. The downside is that they’re not super pretty. They are more obvious than magnetic locks, but also easier to install. They run anywhere from $7-9 for a 4-pack.
What we like:
- Inexpensive
- Very easy to install
What We Don’t Like:
- Not that nice looking
- Maybe a little on the short side
Anti-Tip Furniture Straps
Furniture straps are essentials for families with children. There are far too many accidents that happen where infants or toddlers are crushed beneath a TV, dresser, baby changing table, etc.
There are plenty of different options available, and we aren’t partial to any particular brand. However, this brand has great reviews and are very simple to install.
What we like:
- Inexpensive
- Easy to use
What We Don’t Like:
- Leaves holes in the wall
- Requires some tools and hardware
Retractable Baby Gate
Baby gates are a must! So whether you want to keep your baby from stairs or a specific room in the house, these are well worth the investment.
Of course, baby gates can make it pretty inconvenient to get around your own house. Because of that, this retractable baby gate is a perfect solution. Its large, mesh material keeps out dogs, cats, or toddlers up to to 40 lbs.
There are a bunch of brands, though not all have great reviews. This is the one we found with the best reviews.
What we like:
- Easy to retract
- Doesn’t scream baby gate
- You don’t have to jump over it!
What We Don’t Like:
- A lot of the brands don’t have great reviews
- A little trickier to use on some stairs
Toilet Safety Lock
This is a less obvious, but important baby proofing gadget. The bathroom cabinets aren’t the only thing to lock up. This toilet safety lock is applied with 3M adhesive, which makes it an easy, no-mess installation. To unlock and use the toilet, simply push and rotate the button. Locking is even easier. This is on Amazon for under $9.
What we like:
- No tools required
- One handed use
- 90 day money back guarantee
What We Don’t Like:
- Pretty bulky
- Although it’s easy to use, guests might feel confused
Door Knob Safety Covers
Baby proofing door handles is one of the most basic ways to keep your kids in or out of where they need to be. These plastic covers require a push and twist to access. Basically, they’re very hard for kids to use, which makes them perfect. They snap onto your door knob and bam! It’s that easy. The 4-pack on Amazon is available for $10.
What we like:
- Very effective
- Inexpensive
- No tools required
What We Don’t Like:
- In theory, these should be easy to use. But in our experience, doorknob covers are difficult for some people to use! This brand seems better than some.
- Not terribly attractive
Door Handle Safety Covers
If you have door handles, rather than knobs, here is the link for those. The set-up is different but the concept is the same!
What we like:
- Works as promised
What We Don’t Like:
- Kind of expensive
- Pretty cumbersome and don’t look that nice
- Some people say they’ve been locked out of the house 4
Door Pinch Guards
If you’re like me, you’ve managed to get pinched by a door hinge one too many times. Anyone knows this is PAINFUL. Especially for kids. So these guards are a wonderful invention. Place the foam guard in the door and keep your kids from pinching themselves. These are available for under $9 (6-pack).
What we like:
- Great design
- Works as promised
- Inexpensive
- Materials prevents damage from the door
What We Don’t Like:
- Might be annoying to never have a door fully closed
This list is not comprehensive but it will give you a good start! These are popular, highly rated products. Child safety is number 1, so make sure to check out these cool and helpful baby proofing products!
Other Posts You May Enjoy:
- 20 Baby Essentials: The No-Nonsense Nw Parent Checklist
- Best Breastfeeding Supplies: Essentials, Favorites, And What to Skip
- The Ultimate Twin Baby Registry Guide
- 25+ Inexpensive Baby Shower Game Prizes Guests Will Love
- How to Potty Train a Strong-Willed Child – Tips That ACTUALLY Work
- 9 Truths About a Strong-Willed Toddler
- The Ultimate Guide to a Diaper Stockpile
Katie is a Colorado-native, BYU graduated, and most importantly, wife to one and mother to three beautiful boys. She is passionate about sharing her experiences with others – especially about pregnancy, breastfeeding, cooking, and crafts. She is currently training to be a Certified Lactation Educator. She loves spending time with her family and helping others find joy in family life.
Leave a Reply