As a mom, the safety of my kiddos is top on my list of priorities. When my children were born, I worked diligently to lock up every cleaning supply, anything that could possibly be toxic, and of course plug every electrical outlet and hide all cords. One place I can honestly say I didn't consider much was our laundry room. I mean, why would the kids even be in the laundry room, right? Wrong! Kids generally want to be wherever their parents are, and I know one of the places I spend a TON of time in is my laundry room. With new products out, like the single use laundry packets, it may be time to take a closer look at laundry room safety.
Liquid laundry packets are pre-measured packets of highly concentrated detergent, and just like other household cleaners, they need to be kept away from children. Keeping these and other laundry products stored where children can't access them is extremely important. While it may seem more stylish to store them in apothecary jars, it really is a better idea to leave them in their original package so little children don't mistake them for treats. HERE is a great animated video which provides tips on safe storage, usage and handling of liquid laundry packets.
Child Safety Home Guide: Ensuring a Kid-Friendly Laundry Room
The home is a sanctuary for families, a place where memories are made and bonds are strengthened. However, for parents, it's also a place where vigilance is crucial, especially when it comes to the safety of their children. One often overlooked area in the home safety checklist is the laundry room. With its array of detergents, machines, and often sharp objects, it's essential to ensure this space is as childproof as possible.
- Store Detergents Safely: Children are naturally curious, and colorful detergent pods can look enticing. Always store detergents, bleach, and other cleaning agents in high cabinets or shelves, out of reach of little hands. If possible, use childproof locks on cabinets.
- Secure the Washing Machine and Dryer: Ensure that both the washing machine and dryer doors are always closed when not in use. Consider using appliance locks to prevent children from opening them. Additionally, always check inside before using to ensure a child hasn't climbed in.
- Eliminate Trip Hazards: Laundry baskets, stray clothes, and even spilled detergent can pose tripping hazards. Ensure the floor is always clear, and clean up any spills immediately.
- Install Outlet Covers: Children are often fascinated by electrical outlets. Ensure all outlets in the laundry room are covered with childproof covers to prevent any potential electrical hazards.
- Keep Irons and Other Hot Items Out of Reach: If you iron in or near the laundry room, always store the iron out of reach when not in use and never leave it unattended when hot.
- Secure Open Water Sources: If you have a utility sink or any open water source, ensure it's secured or covered to prevent any potential drowning hazards.
- Educate and Supervise: While it's essential to make the environment safe, it's equally crucial to educate children about the dangers present. Teach them the importance of not playing in or around the laundry room. Always supervise young children when they're in areas with potential hazards.
In conclusion, while the laundry room might not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of child safety, it's a space filled with potential dangers. By following this checklist and being proactive, parents can ensure a safer environment for their children. Remember, safety
The American Cleaning Institute® (ACI), a nonprofit organization representing producers of household cleaning products, launched their KEY Pledge safety education campaign in June 2013, which continues its commitment in keeping children safe from accidental laundry packet exposures and injury.
ACI recently conducted a survey, which found that 86% of consumers are improperly storing laundry packets. So, I am joining them and taking the KEY Pledge online for laundry safety! I would love for you to join me...it only takes a few seconds to take the pledge and keep single-load liquid laundry packets out of the reach of children, and educate family and friends about the safe use and storage of these new laundry products! You can take the KEY Pledge HERE!
This post was sponsored by The American Cleaning Institute. All opinions are 100% mine.
