Cabinets in bathrooms and kitchens hold various dangerous items, including chemicals, medicines, glass, and utensils. Keeping a curious toddler out of your furniture is as simple as finding a reliable childproof latch that is a deterrent to your toddler yet easy for an adult to operate. You might be asking how secure can baby proofing be, and how to open baby proof cabinets. Don’t worry, we got you.
There are several ways on baby proofing your home, and choosing the right one depends on your needs and the structure of your cabinets. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about baby proof cabinets and other furniture.
Types of Baby proof Cabinet Door Latches
Push-Down Lock
Push-down locks are perfect for both cabinets and drawers. It works by installing a long piece of plastic on the cabinet door and installing the latch on the frame of the cabinet. When the door closes, the plastic catches the latch to prevent the door from opening. How to open baby proof cabinets for this specific device is simple. Just press the plastic piece down to release from the latch. These locks do not deter fingers from being pinched in the door, and you might find that a clever toddler can disengage the lock.
Magnetic Locks
A magnetic lock needs a key to open a locked cabinet door. It is installed on the inside of the cabinet door and latches into place when closed. To unlock the door, place the key over the lock to disengage. This type of lock isn’t visible outside the cabinet door, but if you lose the key, you will be unable to open the cabinet.
Zip Locks
If you have a two-door cabinet with knobs next to each other, you can utilize a zip lock. The zip lock has two loops that slide over each knob and is tightened by pressing a button on the lock. One disadvantage to this clasp is that it may attract curious little hands, and releasing the lock might be too much work for some adults.
Over-the-Door Locks
Over-the-door locks keep two cabinet doors locked, assuming the cabinet doors are next to each other. The lock slides over the top of the cabinet doors, where the doors meet and keeps them closed when the lock is engaged. How to open baby proof cabinets for this type is simple- remove the lock to open the doors. This cabinet lock is visible on the outside and might be a bit difficult to remove with one hand.
Key Characteristics of Excellent baby Proof Cabinets
Easy to Install.
Unless you have a lot of spare time, spending too much on installing a device can be too hassle. So opt for something easy to install and shouldn’t take you more than 3 minutes per cabinet or drawer.
Non-Damaging.
You have to keep in mind that your child will eventually grow; thus, no need for permanent baby proof devices. Opt for devices that won’t require you to drill holes, if possible.
Look for Multi-Use Devices.
If you like to get the value for your money, purchase items that can be used in many different ways and on many different things. Look for products that don’t only secure a cabinet. Try to see if they will keep drawers shut, the refrigerator, doors, etc. Multiple-use devices provide you with many more options.
Sturdy.
Always install something strong enough to hold up to 20 pounds of force or more.
Portable.
You can’t keep your baby at home forever. Having a portable baby proofing devices, one can help you feel much more relaxed knowing that you could quickly secure your cabinets wherever you go. Cord, sliding cabinet locks, and even rubber bands always do the trick.
Extra Tips on Baby Proofing Cabinets
- Don’t let your child see you unlocking cabinet locks.
Kids learn by mimicking and surprisingly quickly too. If your little one sees you use a cabinet lock often enough, he will eventually learn how to open baby proof cabinets. - Baby proof cabinet locks are foolproof.
Guests may forget to put locks back on cabinets, or it may simply slip your mind. This will expose your child to all potential dangers you worked so hard to restrict access. So, it is recommended that you move all dangerous items such as cleaning products or ceramic plates to cabinet spaces that are difficult to reach. Alternatively, lock certain products such as cleaning products up in safe Tupperware containers. - Cabinet locks should not substitute supervision.
Childproof locks do not mean you can stop supervising your child. Children are vulnerable, and they can easily encounter accidents even when they are inside the house.
Conclusion
Children are generally playful and curious. However, our homes might not be a safe place for toddlers to hang around. That’s why parents always need to make sure that the house is secured. You can do that by learning how to baby proof your home and how to open baby proof cabinets as well. These simple devices help prevent potential hazards that might harm your little one. Know more about childproofing.