Indoor plants add a touch of nature indoors, brighten your house, and purify the air. A curious child, on the other hand, can easily become a cause of trouble. Children can cause mess or even hurt themselves when they dig in the ground or pull on leaves. Therefore, knowing how to successfully baby proof plants is crucial.
“This tutorial will show you how to baby proof plants in easy yet efficient ways. With a few simple tips and inexpensive tools, you can easily baby-proof your indoor jungle.”
You may want to read: 4 Questions to Ask Your Child Every Day
Why Do You Need to Baby Proof Plants?‘
Toddlers love to explore the world, and houseplants often pique their curiosity. Here are some reasons to consider baby proofing indoor plants:
Safety First:
Some houseplants are toxic if ingested. Protecting your child ensures they don’t accidentally eat harmful leaves or soil.
Mess Control:
Potting soil, broken pots, and scattered leaves can turn your tidy home into a disaster zone.
Plant Preservation:
Keeping your child away from your plants helps them thrive without unnecessary damage.
Now, let’s dive into practical solutions to solve these problems.
How to Baby Proof Plants: Step-by-Step Solutions
1. Elevate Your Plants
The easiest way to keep plants out of reach is to place them on high surfaces.
- Use sturdy shelves or wall-mounted plant holders.
- Opt for tall plant stands that your child cannot climb.
Why It Works:
This method eliminates direct contact with the plant, ensuring safety while maintaining your décor.
2. Use Cling Wrap for Soil Protection
If your toddler is obsessed with digging, this is a quick fix.
- Step 1: Take two sheets of cling wrap and place them over the soil.
- Step 2: Make small cuts for the plant stem.
- Step 3: Secure with tape if necessary.
Pros:
- Affordable and easy to apply.
- Keeps soil in place and prevents dirt messes.
Cons:
- Not very durable; older toddlers might tear through it.
3. Invest in Pot Covers
Pot covers are specially designed to fit over the top of your pot. They create a barrier between the soil and your child.
- Trim the cover to fit snugly around the plant base.
- Secure it with stakes provided in the package.
Why Pot Covers Are Great:
- The grid design allows you to water the plant without removing the cover.
- Durable and blends seamlessly with your plant setup.
- Ideal for anyone searching for how to baby proof potted plants.
4. Go for Tall Outer Pots
Place your existing pot into a larger, taller container. Choose something with rigid sides, like:
- Bamboo hampers.
- Decorative woven baskets.
This method is perfect for tall plants like the fiddle-leaf fig or money tree.
Pro Tip: Measure your plant and pot carefully to ensure a snug fit.
5. Install a Plant Shield
Consider purchasing a plant shield, a clear dome or cover that prevents access to the plant.
- Choose shields with ventilation holes to maintain plant health.
- Ensure it fits snugly around the pot.
Perfect for:
Parents who need a solution for small plants or seedlings.
6. Redirect Curiosity with Fake Plants
Sometimes, the best solution is to distract your toddler.
- Place artificial plants in areas they can reach.
- Opt for non-toxic materials and vibrant colors to mimic real plants.
Bonus: No maintenance required!
7. Choose Non-Toxic Plants
While you’re busy baby-proofing, take a moment to audit your plant collection. Some plants can be harmful if ingested. Examples include:
- Peace Lily.
- Pothos.
- Dieffenbachia.
Replace these with safe options like spider plants, Boston ferns, or areca palms.
8. Use a Tall Baby Gate
For larger plants, placing them inside tall, decorative pots can block access to the soil. Look for stylish baskets, bamboo hampers, or large planters that complement your home decor while keeping your child away from the plant.
9. Rotate Plants Occasionally
Children get bored with familiarity. Rotating your plants to new spots not only freshens up your home decor but also reduces the likelihood of your child fixating on one plant.
10. Monitor and Adjust Regularly
As your child grows, their ability to reach or interact with plants changes. Regularly review your baby-proofing measures to ensure they remain effective. For instance:
- Adjust the height of shelves or stands.
- Replace lightweight barriers with sturdier options.
- Transition to teaching respect for plants as they age.
Essential Tips for Long-Term Baby Proofing
- Supervise: Even the best solutions can fail if your toddler is determined. Supervision is always necessary.
- Teach Boundaries: Gently explain that plants are not toys. Encourage them to observe rather than touch.
- Rotate Solutions: If one method stops working, try another.
Products to Baby Proof Plants Confidently
Here are some must-haves to get started:
- Plant Pot Covers – Durable and designed for potted plants.
- Tall Shelves – Perfect for elevating smaller plants.
- Decorative Outer Pots – Stylish and functional.
- Cling Wrap or Plastic Trays – Budget-friendly options.
- Non-Toxic Plants – Safe for curious toddlers.
Final thoughts
“The process of how to baby proof plants doesn’t have to be costly or stressful. Cling wrap, pot covers, and tall outer pots are some ways to keep your plants safe and your house toddler-friendly. Begin modestly, try out various approaches, and determine which one suits your family the best.
Take the first step today and baby-proof your plants with confidence!
Frequently Asked Questions About how to baby proof plants
1. How to baby proof house plants?
You can baby-proof house plants by elevating them, using pot covers, or placing them in tall outer pots. These methods keep plants out of reach while maintaining aesthetics.
2. How to baby proof potted plants?
Use cling wrap, trimmed drip trays, or grid-style pot covers to block access to the soil. These solutions are budget-friendly and effective.
3. How to baby proof indoor plants for curious toddlers?
Consider using tall plant stands, baby gates, or non-toxic artificial plants. These options are both child-friendly and easy to implement.
4. Are there plants that don’t need baby proofing?
Yes, non-toxic plants like spider plants or Boston ferns are safe for kids. However, they may still need protection from curious hands.
5. What’s the best product to baby proof plants?
Pot covers with a grid design are highly recommended for their durability and ease of use. They’re also great for anyone learning how to baby proof potted plants.
