First Steps: Babyproofing Tips for the Stylish Mom

Among the things that first-time parents are told when expecting a baby is that something will have to give. Whether it’s sleep, cleanliness, alone time or sanity, everyone always says you’ll have to just let some of it go. However, what needn’t fall by the wayside when your family grows is your sense of style—and that includes your house, even when the baby goes from crawling to walking. Here are 10 great ways to prove that “chic” and“babyproofing” don’t have to be mutually exclusive.

Cords from blinds are a serious strangulation hazard for kids. While many blinds are now made in a more safety conscious manner, unless you’re looking to upgrade, cord winders can be a (literal) lifesaver. Thankfully there are ones out there that can be a focal point instead of an eyesore.

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Baby gates do not have to resemble a prison. They can actually blend in with your décor while simultaneously preventing any unfortunate tumbles down the stairs. Bonus points for gates that are also sleek, modern and ergonomic, like this one.

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Who says outdoor glassware can’t be used inside? If the whole point is to actually pour stuff in the glasses and drink, acrylic and melamine glasses will do the trick without cracking after they are predictably swiped off the table by the newest member of your family to start walking. The good news is that plenty of non-glass glasses are also fabulously fashionable—not to mention reasonably affordable.

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Go ahead and ask any ER doctor why most of the kids rushed to see them ended up on a gurney. Glass coffee tables. The answer is glass coffee tables. That’s why you should ditch yours, although not the fashion or function. Ottomans can make for great coffee tables, especially those that are sneakily multifunctional. They also double as something that will not result in your small child getting stitches when they inevitably smash into it.

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Want to dim the lights for a party and set a refined tone but don’t particularly feel like inviting the fire department over for dessert after your kid knocks over a candle? Three words: battery-operated candles. Put them on a table set with sophistication and no one will notice that they’re not actually made of wax.

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First of all, if you are fortunate enough to have a working fireplace, mazel tov! But know that your newly trained walker will be attracted to the flames like, well, a moth. And if you have a fireplace, you know that is not only not cool—it's dangerously hot. The good thing is that hearth cushions can add a seating element, style points and, most importantly, a level of safety to further prevent any burns or other owies.

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Sure, you can get cheap, white plastic outlet covers so no child will stick a fork in the socket and be done. But there are more elegant ways to prevent electrocution, and then there are some funny ways to do it, too. Whether you’re a minimalist or a humorist, there’s an outlet cover for your taste.

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Ceramic tiles, concrete flooring and hardwoods might have been a selling point when buying your home, but after bringing a baby into it, it’s a definite drawback. However, adding a durable and cool-looking area rug to tough spots can make a world of difference in the world of a little person who just so happens to spend a lot of time on all fours.

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You don’t need to be proficient in feng shui to rearrange your furniture, but you do need to be well versed in toddler. Rearranging furniture, such as a sofa and side tables to block access to shelves containing easily breakable knickknacks or tables with lamps just waiting to be knocked over is a wise move. That way, you keep your kid and your stuff safe, so it’s a win-win (unless you wanted to redecorate, in which case, forget we said anything).

A bathroom can be the easiest way to show that you’re chic and safe without spending a bundle. White subway tiles, cheerful yellow towels and a matching duck bath spout cover will hide the fact that your life has been overtaken by a small toddling human while also protecting the aforementioned person from inadvertently scalding their hand on the hot spout while splashing around in the tub.

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