It won’t be long after your baby starts walking that he or she is opening drawers, reaching up to shelves, grabbing things and getting into all kinds of mayhem. That’s why safeguarding your home for a growing toddler is so important — especially in the bathroom. Because of medications, cosmetics, appliances and reachable water access that tend to exist in the bathroom at home, it’s a place where your child is particularly vulnerable to danger. With that in mind, to help prevent injuries, protect your toddler and create better bathroom safety, here are a few tips for securing the bathroom.
- Always be near. Bathtub safety is a serious concern — so when the doorbell rings during bath time, either ignore it or scoop your toddler up in a towel to take with you to the door. Never leave your toddler alone during bath time, not even for a moment. Likewise, anytime your child is in the bathroom, it’s a good idea to be nearby. Keeping the door closed can prevent unsupervised access.
- Always empty the tub. As soon as a bath is over, empty the tub of water. Leaving standing water in the bathroom means leaving bathtub dangers where toddlers could topple into and drown, so keep it dry.
- Install anti-slip features to tub. Whether it’s a rubber mat or non-skid decals, help prevent bathtub slips and falls by making the floor less slick.
- Lock the toilet. The same principle applies to the toilet, where even the small amount of water that sits in the bowl is a drowning hazard. Always close the lid when you’re not using the toilet, and install a child-safe lock that prevents toddler access.
- Lower the water temperature. Protect against potential scalds or burns by lowering your house’s water temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. You could also get an anti-scald device for added protection if desired.
- Childproof knobs. There are childproof doorknobs, sink knobs and tub knobs on the market today, so it’s incredibly easy and convenient to pop them on your faucets and doorknobs to prevent kids from running water or gaining access when they shouldn’t.
- Keep hazardous materials high and locked. Your hairspray, mouthwash, makeup and even medications may not seem like hazardous materials at first glance. In the hands of a toddler, however, they become objects to taste, touch, open and explore. From cleaning products to everyday toiletries, keep hazardous materials high out of reach so that your kids can’t access them.
- Keep meds in childproof containers. Whether you’re talking about aspirin or prescription drugs, any medication you keep in the bathroom should be stored high and have a childproof lid.
- Always unplug. When you use blowdryers, curling irons, flat irons, electric razors or any other bathroom appliances, make sure you unplug them after using and store them out of the way.
When it comes to modern bathroom safety for your child, you can’t be too careful — so to protect your little one from injury, follow the nine tips above. Learn more about the top-quality bathroom products at Modern Bathroom, your resource for the best prices on tubs, mirrors, accessories and more!