How to baby proof your home for your newborn

Being a new parent can be daunting, with so many things to think about when preparing for your newborn’s arrival.

At Milton, we know you want the best for your baby and baby proofing your home environment plays an essential role in this.

Here’s why a safe space is so important and what you need to do to plan for your newborn.

Importance of baby proofing your home for your newborn

The safety of your newborn is a priority for every new parent. They are fragile, delicate and curious, so it’s imperative they are protected in your home from any hazards or dangers. Baby proofing the environment means your baby remains physically, mentally and emotionally healthy.

The setting they are brought into needs to be nurturing, soothing and comfortable because newborns rely on this space to feel secure and emotional connection. Newborns are aware of everything in their surroundings, so it’s vital that your home promotes structure and routine to eliminate stress and inefficiency.

All of these factors help to build the best foundation for your baby to grow and live a happy, healthy life.

Baby proof your home environment for your newborn

Design a safe nursery

First of all, it’s a good idea to start with your newborn’s sleeping space when baby proofing. Make sure you choose a crib that meets the latest safety standards, is sturdy and is positioned away from any windows, so there is less risk of blind cords presenting as a hazard.

The changing table should also meet the same requirements as the crib, plus have raised edges, safety straps and an area for the changing supplies that is out of the baby’s reach. When it comes to decorations and knick-knacks, it’s best practice to steer away from small objects as these can be choking hazards.

Choose a baby monitor

Included in your nursery should be a space for your baby monitor to stand. Whether you choose an audio baby monitor or a video one, you can keep an eye on your newborn in their nursey while you’re in another room. Listen closely to your new baby’s sounds and movements or watch them on the screen to feel reassured they are safe and secure at all times.

Invest in a playpen

A playpen for your newborn is perfect for keeping them safe and sound. It keeps them confined in a comfortable space without the risk of exploring or rolling over into less safe areas. Filling a playpen with their favourite toys and other sensory features will keep them occupied, and you can have peace of mind that they are protected.

Cover electrical outlets and consider your electrical appliances

As mentioned above, newborns are curious and move around whilst they get to know their bodies. Therefore, electrical outlets and appliances must be considered in your home environment.

Use outlet covers in each and every outlet or just make sure each outlet is fitted with an outlet plug at all times. It’s also recommended that electrical appliances with short cords should be favoured as this means babies are less like to pull on them.

Add safety catches onto cupboard doors

In the same way that outlet covers prevent newborns from touching electrical outlets, safety catches on cupboard doors will prevent newborns from either getting their fingers stuck or opening a cupboard to reveal cleaning supplies or sharp objects.

They are also handy for sliding wardrobes and drawers, depending on how easy they are to open. For extra safety, you could keep dangerous or breakable items, like medicines and glassware, up high and out of reach altogether.

Use corner guards around the home

Although newborns won’t be crawling or walking for a while, it’s still important to keep sharp corners covered for when they start to wriggles and move to reduce the risk of any physical injuries. Corner guards are designed as soft cushions that fit around the corners of pieces of furniture like tables, counters, chest of drawers, etc.

Secure furniture and appliances

The idea of furniture and appliances tipping over is a scary thought for anyone, but especially a new parent! One way in which you can rest assured is by properly securing them to the wall and use safety catches on ovens, dishwashers and fridge freezers as well.

Maintain cleanliness

As a newborn’s immune system is not as strong as an adult’s, a clean environment will keep them protected too. By establishing a cleaning routine for your home, including your baby’s nursery, you can make sure that all dirt, dust, germs and allergens are removed.

Remember to clean toys, highchairs and changing tables regularly and always maintain proper hygiene when you change your newborn’s nappy. Washing hands before and afterwards is vital for keeping the space safe and hygienic, so there is less risk of infections and illnesses. Keep our antibacterial wipes next to the changing area in case you need to use it before and after changing your baby.

At Milton, we have both a sterilising range and a hygiene range to help you keep your environment as clean as can be. Our antibacterial surface spray can keep all your surfaces disinfected and is designed to be used around babies.

Plus, we are renowned for our sterilising fluid and tablets to keep your baby bottles, breastfeeding equipment and toys free from germs. We can help you baby proof your home environment for your newborn and are here to support you throughout your parenting journey.

Shop the Milton range at Woolworths, Coles, Chemist Warehouse, BIG W, Baby Bunting, IGA and other major supermarkets.