Ethan BrooksBy Ethan Brooks

Updated November 2026

MacKenzie-Childs outlet covers are decorative faceplates made by the MacKenzie-Childs brand, which is known for hand-painted, whimsical home goods. They are not a safety product in themselves. A MacKenzie-Childs outlet cover can be used in a toddler home only if it fits properly, covers the opening completely, and does not reduce the protection of a tamper-resistant outlet. Check the fit and the cover style before you buy, and treat the design as a finish, not a childproofing feature.

Why decorative outlet covers raise safety questions

Most decorative outlet covers are sold for appearance. A cover that is pretty but loose, thin, or easy to pull off does nothing to stop a child from reaching into an outlet. Toddlers are good at finding gaps, and they are strong enough to pull off a faceplate that sits only partly seated. For this reason, the first question to ask about any decorative cover is whether it closes the outlet the same way a standard childproof cover does.

Shopping for one? See our guide: 7 Best Outlet Covers for Floor Installations Compared (2026).

Ceramic and painted designs add another concern. Hand-decorated pieces can have sharp edges, uneven surfaces, or small decorative parts that could break off. Manufacturers generally specify that their products are for decorative use and should be installed according to the instructions, so read the packaging before you rely on any design for a toddler’s room.

What to check before you buy or install

Use the following checks to decide whether a decorative cover is appropriate for a home with a young child:

  • Coverage: The cover should sit flush against the wall and fully cover the outlet slots and the screw openings. Any gap is a finger-sized opening.
  • Attachment: The cover should be secured with the screws supplied, using the correct screw length for your outlet box. Screwless designs should click or lock firmly and should not wobble when you press on them.
  • Edges and material: Run a hand along the edges. Rough or chipped areas are a hazard. Avoid pieces with small decorative attachments that a child could pull loose.
  • Compatibility with tamper-resistant outlets: Many homes already have tamper-resistant receptacles. A decorative cover should not block the shutter mechanism from working, and it should not be used as a substitute for a tamper-resistant outlet if you have an outlet that is in use.
  • Plug-in use: If an outlet is in use with a cord running out from behind the cover, the cover must still allow the cord to exit without pinching or stress on the plug.

How to decide if a decorative cover is appropriate

A simple rule works well for most homes: use a decorative cover only where the outlet is not being used by a toddler’s reach, or where the cover is designed to the same closure standard as a childproof cover. In a nursery, playroom, or living room where a toddler crawls or stands, prioritize covers that are tamper-resistant and securely fastened. In a formal dining room or a home office where toddlers are not present, a decorative style is usually a reasonable choice.

If you want the look of a MacKenzie-Childs design in a toddler-accessible room, consider a decorative style on outlets that are unused, and use a plain, secure childproof cover on outlets that are in active use within reach. Mixing styles this way is common and avoids compromising protection.

Practical steps for installing a decorative cover safely

  1. Turn off the circuit at the breaker before removing the existing faceplate.
  2. Confirm the outlet box is in good condition and the receptacle is secure in the box.
  3. Check the screw length. A screw that is too long can crack a decorative faceplate or fail to seat it flush.
  4. Attach the cover and tighten the screws evenly until the cover sits flat with no gap.
  5. Press firmly on all sides. The cover should not flex, rock, or pull away from the wall.
  6. Restore power and test the outlet with a plug, confirming that the cover does not interfere with the plug or cord.
  7. Inspect the cover every few weeks. Look for cracks, loose screws, or chips that could become hazards.

Tips for families with toddlers

  • Use decorative covers in areas where the outlet is out of reach or unused.
  • Keep a standard childproof cover on any outlet that a child can reach and that is in use.
  • Do not use decorative covers to replace child-resistant plugs in a room where a toddler spends time.
  • Replace any cover that is cracked, warped, or loose.
  • If you are unsure, ask a licensed electrician to confirm that the installation is secure and compatible with your wiring.

What we’d use

For toddler-accessible outlets, a plain tamper-resistant cover is a more reliable choice than any decorative design. For a room where you want a decorative finish and the outlet stays unused, a screwless or screw-secured cover in a style you like will do the job. Use the search phrases below to compare options.

  • Tamper-resistant outlet cover with screw mounting for toddler rooms. View on Amazon
  • Decorative outlet cover with flush-fit design for unused outlets. View on Amazon
  • Outlet cover with lock for toddler-accessible outlets. View on Amazon

For more on choosing covers by room and style, see Outlet Covers and Tamper-Resistant Outlets Explained and Leviton Electrical Outlet Covers: How to Choose and Install Them Safely. If you want a wood or painted look, Paintable Wood Outlet Covers Review: Is It Worth It? covers the trade-offs.

Are decorative outlet covers childproof?

Only if they fully cover the outlet, fit tightly, and are secured so a child cannot pull them off. Many decorative covers are designed for appearance alone, so check the packaging and fit before relying on one.

Can I use a MacKenzie-Childs cover on an outlet in use?

You can if the cover fits correctly and allows the plug and cord to function without strain. In a toddler-accessible room, a secure childproof cover is the safer choice for any outlet that is in use.

Do I need a tamper-resistant outlet if I have a decorative cover?

A decorative cover does not replace tamper-resistant receptacles. If your outlets are not tamper-resistant and a toddler can reach them, consider upgrading the receptacles or using a secure childproof cover.

How do I know if a cover is the right size?

Compare the cover to your outlet box and existing faceplate. It should sit flat with no gap, and the screws should line up with the mounting holes without forcing the cover.

When should I call an electrician?

Call a licensed electrician if the outlet box is loose, the receptacle is damaged, the cover will not seat flat, or you are unsure how to install the cover safely.

Ready to choose one?

Ethan Brooks

About Ethan Brooks

Ethan Brooks is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our childproofing guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.