You will probably think that blinds are harmless. They are just there in your window and could never cause injury to your kids. But the thing that seems harmless can be dangerous to little ones. That is why when you child proof your doors, cabinets, and others, you must include your blinds. But do you know how to child proof blinds? Here are a few tips that you can check.
What makes the Blinds Dangerous to Kids
Some parents may think that blinds will never be dangerous to kids, unlike the sharp things or small objects that could cause cuts and choke them. Remember that kids are naturally curious about everything they see around them. If you are to check, most blinds have cords. This is the one you pull when you want to make adjustments on the blinds. And this is the same cord that could be dangerous to your kids. They might get tangled with it and tied to it. But since blinds are one of the things need at home, it is a good reason why you should learn how to child proof blinds to keep your kids safe.
Ways to Keep Blinds Safe for Kids
Blinds, especially corded ones, can be dangerous to your kids. There are different ways to keep blinds safe. Here are a few tips on how to child proof blinds.
- Keep cords out of reach. It will be a good habit for parents to pull the cords as short as possible to make it unreachable by kids. You can also tie them but be careful not to tie them too tight that it will be hard for you to untie. You can also use any clip that will hold the cord. Another way to keep cords out of reach is to tuck them up high. Remind the adults in the house that cords must be kept high. You can also create a cord cleat and place it on the side of the windows, high enough to keep it out of sight and reach of kids. Use it to wrap up blind cords.
- Follow the Manufacturer’s Warning or Safety Instruction. Blinds packages have safety and warning instructions. Make sure to read and follow them carefully. They will also include suggestions on how to child proof blinds. There are also safety mechanisms that will help you manage any loose cords or chain and prevent it from being a threat to small kids at home.
- Remove Piece of Furniture. One of the ways to keep your blinds safe for kids is to move your furniture away from the window where the blinds are placed. Move them far enough from the blinds making them unreachable and kids can’t touch the blinds. Some blinds have chains that hang down. Make sure to place something like a high table that they cannot climb on. This way they won’t be able to go near the blinds and play with the chain or cords.
- Cut Cord Loops. One of the dangers in blind cords is the possibility of it becoming a noose. Most of the blinds can work with two cords so you can cut their loops to make it entirely risk-free. But before cutting, make sure the blinds function without the loops. Check the label and manufacturer’s instructions. Sometimes, this includes the warranty policy, so check them first.
- Go cordless. Nowadays, blinds are innovated from being with cords to cordless. Try checking the home improvement store within your community and check for cordless blinds. As much as possible, choose cordless blinds in your windows if you have kids at home. However, though cordless, these blinds also have cords between the slats. So, carefully choose the product with cords that are safely attached within the slats of the blinds and cannot be easily pulled by the tiny fingers of your toddlers.
- Install only Cordless Blinds in your Kids’ Bedroom. Getting a blind in bedrooms can be prevented. You will need it to cover your windows and your kids’ bedroom windows as well. So, when the room is intended for your little kids, make sure you choose the safest ones. You can choose the cordless ones or those without loops. There are different designs you can choose from. Make sure to examine every product before buying them carefully.
Conclusion
There are many ways to make your corded blinds safe for your kids. But you need to sacrifice a little beauty for the sake of safety. But if you are able to get the ones that don’t have cords or chains, it can be the easiest choice, and you can have beauty and safety. Otherwise, you must learn how to child proof blinds. Doing this will give you peace of mind. But of course, nothing can replace the supervision you can provide to your child. And never leave your kids alone. Know more about childproofing.