How to Babyproof Stairs

As soon as your infant starts to move around independently -- whether by crawling, rolling, scooting or bottom-shuffling -- it's time to babyproof your home. This is where your child will spend most of his time, and it's full of safety hazards you may never have had to consider before. It's important to babyproof your stairs because your child will want to explore them and won't understand the risk of falling.

Things You'll Need

  • Safety gates

Instructions

    • 1

      Research safety gates by reading online reviews and asking for advice in the store. Go for a brand new gate that displays a seal from the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association, advises Baby Center. Choose a model that screws to the wall, which is more secure than a pressure gate, and is easy for you to open and close. Avoid the older accordion-style gates with V-shaped openings, as they may create entrapment or strangulation hazards. Go for a straight-slat design instead. Consider a high gate so your child won't be able to climb over it. Purchase your chosen safety gate.

    • 2

      Install the safety gate at the top of the stairs. Follow the manufacturer's directions when attaching the gate to your wall. Install a second gate to the bottom of your stairs to stop your infant from climbing to the top of the stairs, then falling back down. Attach guards to your banister and railing if your child is small enough to squeeze through the rails, suggests KidsHealth.

    • 3

      Supervise your child at all times to make sure she is safe and that gates are not accidentally left open. Keep your stairs free of toys, shoes and other items your child could trip over.

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