DIY Child Safety - Installing Anti-Toddler Safety Locks and Latches

Do you have a child that's just starting to get curious abut what's in all the cupboards at your house? Here's how to install toddler-resistant locks and latches on the important parts of your home...

When my first child got mobile, it was a challenge to stay one step ahead of him installing these devices. I suggest getting started early. Try tackling one part of your house every week or so after the baby is born, so that by the time he or she is mobile, you'll be prepared.

Spring Locks
Spring locks are for your drawers and cabinets in the kitchen and bathrooms. They come in two pieces, each one which have two screws. One piece is shaped like an arrow; that piece goes on the inside of the door panel or drawer front. The other piece, shaped like a rectangle with a lip on it, goes just inside the drawer or cabinet. The barbed part of the arrow hooks under that lip when the drawer or cabinet is closed.

You'll only be able to open your cabinets or drawers about an inch when you have spring locks on them. Then you put a finger through that inch opening, and push the barb past the lip, in order to open it the rest of the way. Be sure to shield the opening with your body while you do this, because sharp-eyed children may figure out what you're doing and copy you!

Door Handle Covers
These bulb-shaped contraptions slip over your existing door handles. To open the door, you have to squeeze and turn (similar to a medicine bottle). It's difficult for little hands to squeeze hard enough and turn at the same time, so these handle covers can keep your children from opening doors to rooms you don't want them in.

Outlet Covers
These small plastic covers have prongs on the back that fit into the slots of your electrical outlets. They prevent your child from jamming things into those holes, and potentially transmitting an electrical shock to themselves. Keep in mind that your child could still gain access to an electrical outlet by pulling out something that's plugged in. Whenever possible, position furniture to lock outlets.