When a baby starts crawling or a toddler starts climbing, I want the safety basics in place fast. This is the gear I would buy first, from gates and cabinet locks to corner guards and furniture straps. (Note: This list contains affiliate links, and I...
I recommend these for parents who want a quick, inexpensive cover for open outlets. They press in without tools and are easy for adults to remove. Buy a pack if you are baby-proofing a first home.
Safety 1st Deluxe Press Fit Outlet Plugs, 8 Count
I like this set for cabinets and drawers because the locks stay hidden inside. It sticks on with adhesive, needs no tools and opens with a magnetic key. Choose it if you want a clean look and no visible latches.
Safety 1st Adhesive Magnetic Lock System, 8 Locks
This is my pick for doorways and hall openings that need a sturdy barrier. It tension-mounts for easy installation and has a one-hand opening. Buy it if you want a taller gate for a determined toddler.
Easy Install Tall & Wide Baby Gate
I suggest this for people who want a simple gate for a doorway or hall. It has a walk-through door and pressure mount. Choose it if you want to pass through without lifting the gate.
Easy Step® Safety Gate
I recommend this for open floor plans because it stretches far across a room. It can form a play area or block a wide space. Pick it up if standard gates do not fit your layout.
2 in 1 Super Wide™ Safety Gate & Play Yard
I like this as an extra wide gate that fits openings and stair tops with hardware. The metal bars are easy to wipe clean. Buy it if you want a gate that opens in both directions.
Cumbor 30-46" Baby Gate for Stairs, Auto Close Dog
I suggest this for homes where the gate must close behind you every time. The auto-close feature and security lock help. Choose it if you are busy and worry about forgetting to latch.
Dreambaby Chelsea Auto Close Security Gate
I recommend this for top of stairs and doorways because it can mount to the wall. The sturdy frame works in multiple spots. Pick it up if you need one gate for several areas.
I like these for coffee tables and fireplace edges. The soft foam cushions hard corners and sticks on with tape. Buy them if your toddler is just learning to cruise.
Roving Cove Baby Proof Edge Corner Protector
I suggest these for long edges as well as corners. The soft guard comes in strips that you cut to fit. Choose them if your furniture has long sharp edges.
I recommend these for rooms with many outlets. The covers fit snugly and are hard for small hands to pull out. Pick them up if you want a bulk pack for the whole house.
Mommy's Helper Outlet Plug Covers
I like this for cabinets with two handles because it slides across them. It installs without tools and is adjustable. Buy it if you want a quick lock for kitchen or bath storage.
Safety 1st Cabinet Slide Locks - 4pk
I suggest this for drawers and cabinets with doors that open sideways. The flexible strap holds closed until an adult squeezes. Choose it if you want an easy install on a variety of handles.
Safety 1st Custom Fit All Purpose Adjustable Straps - 2pk
I recommend this for keeping toddlers out of rooms, closets or laundry areas. It sits high enough to be out of reach. Pick it up if your child has learned to open handles.
Safety 1st Adhesive Top of Door Lock With Pinch Guard
I recommend this for keeping toddlers out of rooms, closets or laundry areas. It sits high enough to be out of reach. Pick it up if your child has learned to open handles.
Safety 1st Adhesive Top of Door Lock With Pinch Guard
I like this for toddlers who enjoy exploring bathrooms. It attaches to the lid and bowl and releases with a push. Buy it if you want a simple way to keep the lid closed.
Safety 1st OutSmart Toilet Lock, White
I suggest this for kitchens where a curious child can reach the oven. It sticks to the door and requires an adult to open it. Choose it if you cook often with a toddler nearby.
Safety 1st Multi-Purpose Appliance Lock Decor
I recommend this for lever-style handles that toddlers learn to open. It snaps over the lever and needs a firm squeeze to release. Pick it up if you want a quick way to block rooms.
Safety 1st OutSmart Child Proof Door Lever Lock
I like these for round door knobs on closets and basements. The covers spin freely until adults squeeze them. Buy a multi-pack if your child opens every knob in sight.
Safety 1st Parent Grip Door Knob Covers, White
I recommend these to anchor dressers and bookcases to the wall. The straps adjust to hold tall furniture in place. Buy them if you have heavy furniture that a climbing toddler might tip.
QuakeHold! 4161 Furniture Strap Kit Anti Tip
I like this soft whale cover for the tub faucet. It cushions the hard metal spout when babies splash or slip. Choose it if your child spends long baths playing near the spout.
Skip Hop Baby Bath Spout Cover MOBY Blue
I suggest this for bath time because it is a toy and a quick temperature check in one. A disc on the bottom shows the word HOT when the water is too warm. Pick it up if you want a simple second check after testing with your hand.
Munchkin White Hot Safety Bath Ducky Toy
I recommend this for nurseries and travel because it is small and simple. It plays calming sounds and has a soft night light. Buy it if you want an affordable machine for naps.
Safety 1st Connected Smart Soother
I like this for first-time parents who want a straightforward screen monitor. The camera pans and tilts and the display is easy to read. Choose it if you want a no-app monitor.
Summer Infant WIDE VIEW 2.0 DIGITAL VIDEO MONITOR
I suggest this for interior doors with small hands nearby. The soft guard sits on the door edge and keeps it from closing fully. Pick it up if you want to prevent pinched fingers during play.
Safety 1st Finger Pinch Guard
I recommend these for gas or electric stoves with front knobs. The covers turn only with an adult grip. Buy a set if your toddler loves to reach for the stove.