When to Start Childproofing: Timing it Right with Your Baby's Development

8 February 2026

Bringing a baby into the world is an exciting yet overwhelming experience. As a parent, ensuring your child’s safety is one of your top priorities. But when exactly should you start childproofing your home? Some parents think it’s something to do later, while others start the moment they bring their newborn home. The truth is, there’s a sweet spot for childproofing—timing it right with your baby’s development is key.

In this guide, we’ll break down when and how to childproof your home at different stages of your baby’s growth so you can stay ahead of the game and create a safe environment for your little one.

Why Timing Matters in Childproofing

Babies grow and develop at lightning speed, and what was safe yesterday might be a dangerous hazard today. Childproofing is not a one-and-done task—it’s an ongoing process that evolves with your baby’s abilities.

If you start too early, your efforts might feel excessive, and if you wait too long, your child could already be exposed to risks. Striking the right balance is all about understanding key developmental milestones.

Childproofing by Developmental Milestones

Instead of setting a random date for childproofing, let's break it down based on your baby's development stages.

Newborn to 3 Months: Laying the Groundwork

At this stage, your baby isn’t mobile yet, which means they’re not reaching for dangerous objects or crawling into trouble. However, this is the perfect time to start preparing your home before things get hectic.

What to Do:

- Secure furniture and TVs – Even though your baby isn’t mobile yet, eventually they’ll be pulling themselves up. Take this time to anchor furniture and televisions to walls to prevent tip-overs.
- Check air quality and safety hazards – Ensure smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms are working. Install baby monitors and consider an air purifier for better air quality.
- Create a safe sleep environment – Use a firm crib mattress, remove pillows and blankets, and keep the crib free of stuffed animals.
- Start getting into safe habits – Avoid placing hot drinks near the edge of tables, keep small objects away from reach, and install cordless blinds to prevent strangulation hazards.

This stage is all about setting a foundation for the future. You don’t need cabinet locks yet, but you do need to start thinking ahead.

4 to 6 Months: The Rolling and Reaching Phase

Your baby is now becoming more mobile—rolling, reaching, and grabbing anything within their tiny grasp. They’re not fully exploring yet, but they’re certainly testing the waters.

What to Do:

- Move dangerous objects out of reach – Babies at this stage can surprisingly reach further than you think. Keep sharp objects, choking hazards, and poisonous substances (like detergent) out of reach.
- Cover electrical outlets – Babies start reaching for interesting things, and outlets are very tempting. Use outlet covers as a precaution.
- Watch for dangling cords – Phone chargers, lamp cords, and curtain ties can become strangulation hazards, so keep them tucked away.

While your baby might not be sitting up or crawling yet, it’s better to stay one step ahead rather than playing catch-up.

7 to 9 Months: Crawling and Pulling Up

Now your baby is officially on the move! Crawling, scooting, and pulling up on furniture make this one of the most critical stages for childproofing.

What to Do:

- Install baby gates – Block off stairways and rooms that aren’t baby-friendly.
- Lock cabinets and drawers – Babies get curious, and anything within reach is fair game. Use safety latches to keep hazardous items out of their hands.
- Remove or secure small objects – If it fits in their mouth, it’s a choking hazard. Keep small items far out of reach.
- Pad sharp corners – Coffee tables and counters with sharp edges should be covered with corner guards to prevent bumps and bruises.
- Secure heavy objects – If your baby pulls on a shelf, lamp, or vase, it could come crashing down. Anchor anything heavy or breakable.

This is prime time for baby-proofing because your little explorer is now independently roaming!

10 to 12 Months: Standing and Cruising

Your baby is getting bolder—standing up, walking along furniture, and getting into things they shouldn’t. At this stage, their curiosity is endless, and your home becomes their playground.

What to Do:

- Secure toilet seats – Babies love water, and an open toilet lid is a safety hazard. Install a toilet lock.
- Use stove and oven guards – If your baby is tall enough to reach knobs or grab pots, these guards can prevent burns and spills.
- Reinforce safety in the bathroom – Install non-slip mats in the bathtub, store medications securely, and keep cleaning products locked away.
- Check for hidden hazards – Coins, batteries, and small toys can end up in your baby’s mouth. Do a thorough sweep of floors and low tables.

As your baby works up the courage to take those first steps, safety should be at its highest priority.

12+ Months: Walking and Climbing

Once your baby is confidently walking and even attempting to climb, childproofing needs constant updating.

What to Do:

- Reassess all previous childproofing efforts – Your little one can now reach higher and open things they previously couldn’t. Adjust accordingly.
- Install door knob covers – Keep them from wandering into unsafe rooms.
- Encourage safe play areas – Create designated areas where they can roam safely under supervision.
- Teach safe behaviors – While childproofing is essential, teaching your child limits and dangers goes a long way.

Childproofing at this stage isn’t just about securing your home—it’s about teaching boundaries while continuing to minimize risks.

Childproofing Mistakes to Avoid

Even the most well-intentioned parents can make mistakes when baby-proofing. Here are some common errors:

1. Waiting Too Long

By the time your baby is actively crawling or walking, they’ve already been exposed to hazards. Start early and adjust as they grow.

2. Ignoring the Babysitter or Grandparents’ House

If your baby spends time at relatives’ or caregivers’ homes, don’t forget to make sure those environments are safe, too.

3. Forgetting About Everyday Items

Babies love remotes, phones, and jewelry—often filled with small batteries or choking hazards. Keep these out of reach.

4. Relying Too Much on Childproofing Products

While latches and gates are important, the best childproofing tool is supervision. Never assume childproofing replaces active parenting.

Final Thoughts

Childproofing is an ongoing journey rather than a one-time task. The key is to anticipate your baby’s next move and stay ahead of potential dangers. By following their developmental milestones, you can gradually safeguard your home without feeling overwhelmed.

So, when should you start childproofing? Before you think you need to. Your baby is growing every day, and ensuring a safe environment now will give you peace of mind in the long run.

Happy parenting—and safe exploring!