How to Baby-Proof Refrigerator Doors
Baby-proofing the house is a nerve-wracking task for many parents, as there are an endless number of potential safety hazards in the average home. Kitchens are especially important to secure because they store electric appliances, chemicals and sharp, breakable objects. To safeguard your refrigerator from an infant and vice versa, take care to properly baby-proof the doors of the refrigerator.
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Instructions
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Securing the Refrigerator Doors
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Purchase an appliance or refrigerator latch.
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For a traditional refrigerator model, attach the two-part latch along the side of the refrigerator where the door opens. Make sure it is out of a child's reach. Apply one of the adhesive parts to the door horizontally, so that it is perpendicular to the vertical edge of the refrigerator. Apply the second adhesive part perpendicular to the vertical edge of the refrigerator, but place this part on the side of the fridge, rather than the door. This will install the latch so that the two parts meet at a 90 degree angle and clasp over the door.
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For a side-by-side model, attach a two-part latch to the tops of both the freezer and the refrigerator doors. Place each latch an inch or two from the point where the doors meet. For both latches (the refrigerator and the freezer), apply the first adhesive part of the latch vertically so that it is perpendicular to the horizontal top edge of the fridge. Apply the second adhesive part of the latch directly on top of the fridge, so that the two latches meet at a 90 degree angle and clasp over the opening.
Reorganizing the Exterior and Interior of the Doors
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4
Relocate all pictures, magnets and other small objects -- which present a choking hazard -- to the top of the refrigerator where they are out of a child’s reach.
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Move all glass bottles and other breakable items, such as eggs, from the inside of the refrigerator door. Relocate these items to the back of the fridge, where they are out of reach. If your child does manage to open the door, these fragile items will not be easy to access.
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Tips & Warnings
For a traditional refrigerator model, use one latch, as the freezer is out of reach.
For a side-by-side model, use two latches.
Do not attempt to install the latch around corners, as the latch ends will not meet.
References
- Photo Credit Ryan McVay/Photodisc/Getty Images
