Lauren HollandBy Lauren Holland

Every year, children are injured by hazards in and around the home, but the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) notes that the risk of injury can be reduced by using child-safety devices. However, the CPSC emphasizes that to be effective, these devices must be properly installed and reengaged after use. Following the manufacturer’s installation instructions carefully is essential, because no device is completely childproof; determined toddlers have been known to overcome or disable them.

Short version: Proper installation and reengagement are critical for childproofing products to reduce risks.

Safety Gates: Screw to the Wall at the Top of Stairs

The CPSC advises using safety gates that meet current child safety standards and warns that pet gates should never be used as a child safety gate. For the top of stairs, only use gates that screw to the wall. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends installing safety gates at both the top and bottom of stairs when a child is learning to crawl and walk, and to avoid accordion-style gates, which can trap an arm or a neck. Instead, use gates firmly mounted to the home’s studs. Safe Kids Worldwide also says to use approved safety gates at the tops and bottoms of stairs and attach them to the wall if possible, and to read the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure the gate is right for the location, because not all gates are safe for use at the top of stairs. For more on choosing the right gate, see our safety gates guide.

Furniture and TV Anchors: Secure to Studs

The CPSC’s Anchor It! campaign urges parents to secure top-heavy furniture and TVs. Existing furniture can be anchored with anti-tip brackets, and new furniture often comes with anti-tip devices that should be installed right away. Flat-screen TVs should be mounted to the wall or anchored to furniture. The AAP adds that securing furniture and mirrors with anti-tip devices may require relocating the furniture so wall anchors can be placed in a stud. Metal anchors, such as L-brackets, are preferable because plastic can become brittle over time and break. The heavier the furniture, the more anchors should be used. Also, install dresser drawer stops or safety straps to prevent a child from pulling drawers out all the way. Safe Kids Worldwide similarly recommends mounting flat-panel TVs to the wall and using brackets, braces, or wall straps to secure unstable or top-heavy furniture. If you rent and putting holes in walls violates your rental agreement, the AAP suggests talking to the landlord about the importance of childproofing, including anchoring furniture and TVs to prevent injury or death. Learn more about furniture anchors and proper installation.

Window Guards and Stops: Limit Openings and Plan Escape

The CPSC states that window guards and safety netting help prevent falls, but window screens are not effective for preventing children from falling out. Check these devices frequently to ensure they are secure, properly installed, and maintained. Limit window openings to four inches or less, including the space between the window guard bars. If window guards are installed, be sure at least one window in each room can be easily used for escape in a fire. Safe Kids Worldwide advises properly installing window guards and stops, and notes that windows above the first floor should have an emergency release device in case of fire. The AAP suggests opening windows from the top if possible; if opening from the bottom, install operable window guards that only an adult or older child can open from the inside. For broader fall prevention strategies, visit our falls page.

Cabinet Locks and Latches: Sturdy and Adult-Friendly

The CPSC recommends safety latches and locks for cabinets and drawers in kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas to help prevent poisonings and other injuries. Look for latches and locks that adults can easily install and use, but are sturdy enough to withstand pulls and tugs from children. The AAP says to put safety locks on all cabinets containing cleaning fluids or other dangerous items. Safe Kids Worldwide stresses storing all household products and cleaning solutions out of children’s sight and reach, and keeping them in their original containers. Proper installation of cabinet locks is a key step in a room-by-room safety plan.

Outlet Covers and Plates: Choke-Proof and Tamper-Resistant

The CPSC advises using outlet covers and outlet plates to help prevent electrical shock. Be sure outlet protectors cannot be easily removed by children and are large enough so that children cannot choke on them. If replacing receptacles, use a tamper-resistant type. The AAP recommends putting non-choking hazard safety plugs in all unused electrical outlets. For a full overview of electrical safety products, see our outlet covers guide.

Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms: Placement and Testing

The CPSC says to use smoke alarms on every level of the home, inside each bedroom, and outside sleeping areas. Check smoke alarms once a month, change batteries at least once a year, or consider sealed 10-year batteries. Install carbon monoxide alarms outside of bedrooms near each sleeping area, even if the home has no fuel-burning appliances, and test regularly. Safe Kids Worldwide recommends installing smoke alarms on every level, especially near sleeping areas, and testing batteries every six months. They also advise having a carbon monoxide alarm on every level, especially near sleeping areas. The AAP similarly states to install smoke and CO detectors throughout the home, at least one on every level and outside bedrooms, and check them monthly. Regular inspection and maintenance of these devices is essential.

Car Seats: Professional Installation

The AAP, in its childproofing tips for grandparents, says to buy a car safety seat and make sure it’s installed properly, or have a trained professional install it. While car seats are not a home product, their correct installation is a critical safety step that follows the same principle: follow the manufacturer’s instructions and seek expert help when needed. For guidance on selecting and using child safety products, visit our child safety products pillar article.

Follow the Manufacturer’s Instructions and Reengage After Use

Across all product types, the CPSC’s core message is to follow installation instructions carefully and to reestablish barriers or locks after each use. For example, after using a pool gate, reestablish the barrier to ensure a child can access the pool or spa only when supervised. The CPSC’s Anchor It! campaign adds that anti-tip devices sold with new furniture should be installed right away, and Safe Kids Worldwide reminds caregivers to read the manufacturer’s instructions for gates and TV mounts to ensure a secure fit. A thorough approach to installation helps each product do its job, and our safety equipment guides section offers step-by-step help for many products.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to anchor furniture if my child is always supervised?

Yes. The CPSC notes that no device is completely childproof, and the AAP points out that tip-overs can happen even with an adult in the room. Supervision alone cannot prevent a sudden tip-over, so anchoring furniture is necessary to reduce the risk of injury.

Can I use a pressure-mounted gate at the top of the stairs?

No. The CPSC explicitly states that for the top of stairs, only use gates that screw to the wall. Safe Kids Worldwide also advises attaching gates to the wall if possible and checking the manufacturer’s instructions to confirm the gate is safe for stair-top use.

How often should I check that safety devices are still secure?

The CPSC recommends checking window guards frequently to make sure they are secure, properly installed, and maintained. Smoke alarms should be checked once a month, and carbon monoxide alarms should be tested regularly. The AAP also advises monthly checks of smoke and CO detectors. After any use of a safety gate or cabinet lock, reengage it to ensure it functions correctly.

For more detailed guidance on installing and using childproofing products, visit our Installation and Use page.

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Lauren Holland

About Lauren Holland

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