Avoid These 17 Design Blunders for a Stylish and Kid-Friendly Home
Creating a stylish home that’s also safe for kids isn’t always easy. With kids around, you have to think about safety and how things work, not just how they look. The goal is to make your home feel cozy and welcoming for both adults and kids. To help with this, here are 17 design mistakes to avoid so you can keep your space both kid-friendly and nice-looking. A little planning goes a long way in making your home safe, practical, and inviting for the whole family.
Fragile Decor
Fragile decorations, such as delicate glass vases, ornaments, or ceramics, present a significant risk in homes with young children. These items can easily break if knocked over during playtime, posing safety hazards and potential damage to the decor. Opting for sturdier materials like wood or plastic ensures that decorations can withstand accidental bumps and falls without shattering into dangerous shards. Parents can enjoy peace of mind by prioritizing child-friendly decor materials, knowing their home remains safe and secure for their little ones to explore.
Sharp Corners
Furniture with sharp corners poses a severe safety hazard for curious toddlers prone to bumping into things as they explore their surroundings. To mitigate this risk, choosing furniture with rounded edges or utilizing corner guards to cushion sharp corners and protect little ones from painful bumps and bruises is essential. These simple precautions help create a safer environment for children to navigate, reducing the likelihood of injury and promoting peace of mind for parents.
Low Hanging Artwork
Artwork hung at a low level may seem inviting to young children, who may be tempted to touch or grab onto it during playtime. However, this can lead to accidental damage or injury if the artwork falls off the wall. Hanging artwork higher on the walls keeps it out of reach and minimizes the risk of harm or injury, ensuring that the artwork and children remain safe and secure in the home environment.
Overly Fancy Fabrics
While luxurious fabrics like silk or velvet may add elegance to a room’s decor, they are often impractical choices for homes with young children. These fabrics are prone to staining and can be challenging to clean, making them ill-suited for the inevitable spills and messes of family life. Instead, opt for durable, stain-resistant fabrics for upholstery and curtains that can withstand the rigors of daily use and are easy to clean.
Unsafe Accessories
Decorative items such as candles, vases, or small sculptures may enhance the aesthetic appeal of a room, but they also pose severe risks to young children. Small objects can present choking hazards, while fragile items like glass vases can shatter if knocked over. To mitigate these risks, keeping these items out of reach or opting for child-safe alternatives designed with safety in mind is essential. By prioritizing safety when selecting accessories, parents can create a secure environment around their house where children can easily play and have fun without unnecessary risks.
Heavy Furniture
Heavy furniture, such as bookshelves or dressers, poses a significant tipping hazard in homes with young children, especially those prone to climbing. Securing furniture to the wall with anchors or straps prevents tipping accidents and helps ensure the safety of children in the home. This simple precaution is essential for protecting children from serious injuries caused by falling furniture. It gives parents peace of mind, knowing their home is safe for their little ones to grow and explore.
Too Many Breakables
Limiting the number of breakable items on display in homes with young children is crucial to prevent accidents and injuries. Opting for shatterproof alternatives or keeping delicate items safely stored away until children are older reduces the risk of damage and injury. Parents can create a safe and secure environment where little children can play without the fear of breaking fragile decor items by prioritizing safety over aesthetics.
Cluttered Spaces
Clutter not only detracts from the aesthetic appeal of a space but also poses safety hazards for young children. Parents can minimize the risk of injuries or accidents by maintaining an organized and clutter-free living space. This helps to create a more enjoyable environment for both children and adults.
Hard-to-Clean Surfaces
Decor with intricate detailing or hard-to-clean surfaces can harbor dirt and germs, posing hygiene concerns in homes with young children. Choosing smooth, easy-to-clean materials for furniture and decor items ensures that maintaining a clean and hygienic environment is more manageable.
Unsafe Flooring
Hardwood floors may be visually appealing, but they can be slippery for young children, increasing the risk of falls and injuries. Rugs with non-slip backings or carpeting provide added traction and safety for children, especially when running around in socks.
Inaccessible Storage
Storage solutions that are out of reach for children can hinder their independence and make accessing their toys and belongings challenging. Using low shelves or baskets that little ones can easily reach encourages tidying up and fosters a sense of responsibility.
Ignoring Child’s Input
Involving children in decorating by considering their preferences and interests fosters a sense of ownership and belonging. Creating a space that reflects their personality makes children feel more at home and encourages responsibility for their belongings.
Dangling Cords
Cords from blinds, lamps, and electronics can be dangerous for little ones. Make sure they’re out of reach or secured safely. Try using cord winders or shorteners to keep things tidy and safe. If possible, go for cordless blinds and wireless gadgets to avoid the hassle completely.
Glass Coffee Tables
Sure, glass coffee tables look great, but they’re not kid-friendly. Go for sturdy tables that can withstand some rough play. Tables with rounded edges are a safer bet. Add cushioned corner guards to prevent bumps and bruises if you already have a table with sharp corners.
Small Decor Items
Tiny decorations such as crystals or stones might look cute, but they can be dangerous for little ones. Skip the small items that kids can easily put in their mouths. Instead, go for larger, kid-safe decor pieces. Keeping those tiny objects out of reach can prevent a lot of accidents. When decorating, always think about safety first.
Avoid Open Shelving
Open shelves might look stylish in your home, but they’re not the best idea if you have young kids. Things can easily get knocked over or grabbed by little hands. It’s better to go with closed cabinets to keep everything safely tucked away, helping you avoid accidents and messes.
Skipping Rug Pads
Rugs without pads can turn into a slippery mess, and that’s a big safety hazard, especially with kids running around. Do yourself a favor and get some non-slip pads for underneath your rugs. They keep everything securely in place and give you peace of mind. They add a bit of extra cushioning, making your space even cozier.
More For You
As summer approaches, planning a memorable outdoor movie night with your family is the perfect time. Transform your backyard into a cozy cinema under the stars and create lasting memories with these easy tips for hosting an epic outdoor movie party. Gather blankets, pillows, and outdoor seating to make everyone comfortable while enjoying the film.
This article was first published on RB ITALIA Blog.
