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As a parent, you know that your child’s safety is your top priority. That’s why you take steps to childproof your home, from installing gates at the top and bottom of stairs to covering electrical outlets. But one area that often gets overlooked is cabinets and drawers.
These everyday household items can be a source of danger for young children. They may contain sharp objects, cleaning supplies, or even medications that could be harmful if ingested. That’s why it’s important to childproof your cabinets and drawers.
There are a variety of child safety locks available on the market, so you can find the perfect solution for your needs. In this article, we’ll discuss the different types of child safety locks, as well as some of the best options on the market. We’ll also provide tips on how to choose the right locks for your home and how to install them properly.
So whether you’re a new parent or you’re just looking to update your childproofing, read on for everything you need to know about child safety locks for cabinets and drawers.
Benefits of Childproofing Cabinets and Drawers
There are many benefits to child proofing cabinets and drawers. Some of the most important benefits include:
Preventing accidents – Childproofing cabinets and drawers can help to prevent accidents, such as poisoning, choking, or burns.
Giving you peace of mind – Knowing that your child is safe from harm can give you peace of mind.
Making your home more accessible – Childproofing cabinets and drawers can make your home more accessible for children with mobility, visual or cognitive disabilities.
Saving money – Childproofing cabinets and drawers can save you money on medical bills and other expenses.
Types of Child Safety Locks
There are two main types of child safety locks: hardware locks and adhesive locks. Hardware locks are the most secure type of lock, but they can be more difficult to install. Adhesive locks are easier to install, but they’re not as secure.
Hardware Locks
- Magnetic locks: These locks use a strong magnet to keep the cabinet or drawer closed. They’re easy to install and remove, and they’re relatively inexpensive.
- Bar locks: These locks slide across the cabinet or drawer opening to prevent it from being opened. They’re more secure than magnetic locks, but they’re also more difficult to install.
- Twist locks: These locks have a knob that must be turned in order to open the cabinet or drawer. They’re very secure, but they can be difficult for young children to operate.
- Spring-action child locks: These locks are safety mechanisms that use a spring mechanism to secure doors, drawers, or cabinets. They require a deliberate action or specific knowledge to release them, ensuring that children cannot open them without adult supervision or assistance.
Adhesive Locks
- Stick-on locks: These locks stick to the cabinet or drawer opening with a strong adhesive. They’re easy to install and remove, but they’re not as secure as hardware locks.
- Strap locks or cord locks: These locks have a strap that goes around the cabinet or drawer opening. They’re more secure than stick-on locks, but they’re also more difficult to install.
Which Child Safety Locks Are Right for You?
The best child safety locks for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for the most secure type of lock, then hardware locks are the way to go. However, if you’re looking for a lock that’s easy to install, then an adhesive lock might be a better option.
Here are a few things to consider when choosing child safety locks for your cabinets and drawers:
- Safety Features: Look for locks that have reliable safety features to prevent easy tampering or accidental disengagement. Check if the lock has a sturdy construction and is resistant to pulling or pushing forces.
- Ease of Use: Choose locks that are easy for adults to operate but difficult for young children to figure out. Look for locks with simple yet effective mechanisms that can be easily engaged and disengaged when needed.
- Installation: Consider the installation process of the locks. Some locks may require drilling or permanent adhesive, while others may offer a more temporary or adjustable setup. Decide which method suits your needs and preferences.
- Accessibility: Ensure that the locks do not hinder your daily access to the cabinets or drawers. Look for locks that allow for smooth opening and closing of the secured areas without excessive effort or inconvenience.
- Compatibility: Check if the locks are compatible with the type of cabinets or drawers you have in your home. Some locks may be designed specifically for certain types of handles, knobs, or cabinet structures. Ensure that the locks you choose are suitable for your specific needs.
- Durability: Consider the durability of the locks, especially if you anticipate frequent use or potential exposure to moisture or other environmental factors. Look for locks made from high-quality materials that can withstand regular wear and tear.
- Level of security: How important is it to you that the lock is difficult for children to open? If you have a curious or determined child, you may want to choose a lock that is more secure.
- Appearance. Do you want the child safety locks to be visible or invisible? Some child locks are designed to be discreet, while others are more visible.
Before purchasing a child safety lock, consult reviews from other parents (like us 🙂) to determine its effectiveness and ease of use. Be sure to install the locks properly to ensure their effectiveness. Finally, inspect the locks regularly to ensure that they are still functioning properly.
Best Baby Proofing Products – Recommended Child Safety Locks
We purchased and put 10 cabinet locks to the test in this review. We evaluated each lock for its ease of installation, usability, and ability to withstand the wiles of toddlers, who are often masterful and yet clumsy explorers.
Munchkin® Xtraguard Dual Action Multi Use Latches
The Munchkin® Xtraguard Dual Action Multi Use Latches are a versatile and effective solution for childproofing your home. These latches are designed to secure cabinets, drawers, appliances, toilet seats, and more, keeping your little ones safe from potential hazards.
Ease of Use and Installation
One of the standout features of these latches is their ease of use. They require a dual button operation to release, making it hard for kids to open. When not in use, the latch can be released and rotated out of the way. The flexible strap also allows for latching around corners, making it easy to secure a variety of items.
Installation is a breeze with the provided adhesive. Simply stick the latch in place and you’re good to go. No tools or drilling required!
Security and Value
The Munchkin® Xtraguard Dual Action Multi Use Latches feature a double layer of security, providing tamper resilience and double locking protection. This added level of security gives parents peace of mind knowing their children are safe.
These latches are available in a 2 pack, providing great value for parents looking to childproof their home. Overall, the Munchkin® Xtraguard Dual Action Multi Use Latches are a versatile and effective solution for childproofing your home. With their ease of use, simple installation, and added security features, they are a great investment for any family with young children.
Pros
- Easy to install: The latches are easy to install and require no tools.
- Effective: The latches are effective at keeping young children out of cabinets, drawers, and appliances.
- Good quality: The latches are of good quality and stick well.
- Versatile: The latches can be used on a variety of surfaces and for different purposes, such as securing fridge/freezer doors.
Cons
- Limited reach: Some customers have reported that the latches do not stretch out long enough to fit on all cabinets or doors.
- Can be figured out by older children: Some customers have reported that their older children (4 years and above) have figured out how to open the latches.
Bottom Line
The Munchkin Xtraguard Dual Action Multi Use Latches are a good option for securing your cabinets, drawers, appliances, and other items from curious toddlers or mischievous cats. They are easy to install and use, effective and durable, versatile and adjustable, discreet and convenient. However, they are not compatible with all surfaces or items, hard to remove or reposition, and not foolproof or childproof.
Wappa Baby Child Safety Strap Locks
If you are a parent of a young child, you know that one of the biggest challenges is keeping them safe. There are so many things in a typical home that can be dangerous for a child, from cleaning supplies to sharp objects. That’s where Wappa Baby Child Safety Strap Locks come in.
They are one of the best child safety locks on the market. These are adhesive straps that you can attach to cabinets, drawers, appliances, toilet seats, trash bins and more. They are easy to install and remove, and they have adjustable length and flexibility to fit different surfaces and corners.
Flexible and Easy to Install
To use Wappa Baby Child Safety Strap Locks, simply clean the surface where you want to attach the strap, peel off the backing, and press the strap in place. You can adjust the length of the strap from 7.5 inches to 4.5 inches to fit the space.
You can use Wappa Baby Child Safety Strap Locks to childproof any cabinet, drawer, appliance, toilet seat, trash bin, or other object that you want to keep your child away from.
Pros
- Effective childproofing
- Versatile and durable
- Easy to use for adults
- Affordable and comes in a value pack of 10 pieces
Cons
- May leave sticky residue or damage surface when removed, especially if not peeled off carefully.
- May not work on some handles or knobs.
- May be too hard or too easy for some children.
Bottom Line
Overall, the Wappa Baby Child Safety Strap Locks are a good option for parents who want to babyproof their home without drilling or using tools. They have mostly positive feedback from customers who have tried them, and they offer a simple and effective solution for child safety. However, they may not be suitable for every situation or preference, so it is important to check the compatibility and quality of the product before buying it.
Heoath Child Safety Cabinet Locks
The Heoath Child Safety Cabinet Locks is a set of 10 child safety cabinet locks designed to baby proof your home. The locks are versatile and can be used on drawers, toilet seats, fridges, and ovens. They come with 10 extra 3M adhesives for easy installation.
Safety and Ease of Use
The primary feature of these locks is to provide safety for babies and kids. They protect your little ones from being hurt by cabinet doors or dangerous objects inside them. In addition to safety, these locks are designed for easy one-hand operation. You can open this lock with just two fingers, making it convenient for parents who often have their hands full.
Quality and Installation
The child safety cabinet locks are made of strong, non-toxic eco ABS materials, ensuring long-term use and safety for babies. Installation is super easy with no drills or tools needed. The locks come with strong adhesive tapes, and you simply peel off the cover of the adhesive and stick the lock on the surface you want to child proof.
Pros
- Provides safety for babies and kids
- Easy one-hand operation
- Made of strong, non-toxic eco ABS materials
- Easy to install with no drills or tools needed
- Comes with extra 3M adhesives
Cons
- The adhesive might not stick well on some surfaces
- The black color might not blend well with all furniture
Bottom Line
The Child Safety Cabinet Locks (10 Pack) – Baby Proofing Latches Lock is a versatile and essential product for any home with young children. It offers safety, ease of use, and quality, ensuring your home is child-proofed effectively.
Skyla Homes Store Cabinet Handle Locks
Skyla Homes Store Cabinet Handle Locks are a multi-purpose child safety lock best for baby proofing. They are designed to work on both handles and knobs up to 5¼ inches apart.
Multi-purpose and Secure
One of the key features of these locks is their multi-purpose nature. They are designed to work on both handles and knobs up to 5¼ inches apart. This makes them versatile and suitable for a wide range of applications. They are also snap-proof, providing an extra layer of security.
However, while these locks are versatile, they may not fit all types of handles and knobs, especially if they are wider than 5¼ inches apart.
Easy to Install
Another notable feature of the Skyla Homes Store Cabinet Handle Locks is their ease of installation. They are quick for adults to install, taking only seconds. This is a significant advantage as it reduces the hassle and time involved in the installation process.
On the downside, some users have reported that the adhesive is extremely strong, which can lead to damage to the cabinet if the locks need to be moved or removed.
Pros
- Versatile and can be used on both handles and knobs.
- Snap-proof, providing an extra layer of security.
- Quick and easy for adults to install.
Cons
- May not fit all types of handles and knobs.
- The adhesive is extremely strong, which can lead to damage to the cabinet if the locks need to be moved or removed.
Bottom Line
In summary, the Skyla Homes Store Cabinet Handle Locks are a versatile and secure solution for childproofing your home. They are easy for adults to install and are designed to be snap-proof for added security. However, care should be taken when installing or removing them due to the strength of the adhesive. With high customer satisfaction, they are a popular choice for parents.
Vmaisi Adhesive Magnetic Cabinet Locks
Vmaisi Adhesive Magnetic Cabinet Locks are a popular choice for parents and pet owners looking to secure their cabinets. These locks are designed to keep children and pets out of cabinets that may contain harmful substances or delicate items.
Installation and Use
One of the key features of these locks is their ease of installation. They require no drilling or complex tools, making them a breeze to install. The locks are adhesive, meaning they can be installed quickly and easily. However, some users have reported that the adhesive could be stronger, as a few locks have come loose.
The magnetic mechanism is highly effective at keeping cabinets securely closed. The locks are easy to use, with a magnetic key that unlocks them. However, you need to use both hands to unlock and open the cabinet while it’s unlocked.
Design and Functionality
The Vmaisi locks are not only functional but also discreet, blending seamlessly with cabinet design. They are strong enough to keep children and pets out. A unique feature of these locks is the switch that keeps them unlocked when you don’t want them to lock.
However, some users have mentioned that they wish the product came with more keys (magnets). Also, the instructions could be clearer, as some users found the initial installation slow.
Pros
- Easy to install and use
- Strong and effective magnetic mechanism
- Discreet design
- Switch to keep the lock off for a period of time
Cons
- Adhesive could be stronger
- Could come with more keys
- Instructions could be clearer
Bottom Line
The Vmaisi Adhesive Magnetic Cabinet Locks are a reliable and user-friendly solution for childproofing your home. They are easy to install, effective, and blend seamlessly with your cabinets. While there are a few minor drawbacks, such as the strength of the adhesive and the number of keys provided, the overall consensus among users is positive. These locks provide peace of mind by keeping your little ones safe from potentially dangerous items in the cabinets.
Safety 1st Adhesive Magnetic Lock System
The Safety 1st Adhesive Magnetic Lock System is a child safety product designed to keep your little ones safe at home. This system includes locks and keys, and it’s designed to be strong enough to keep even the cleverest of toddlers out.
Safety and Ease of Use
One of the key features of these locks is their ability to provide safety for children. They are designed to be strong enough to keep even the cleverest of toddlers out. The locks are also easy to use, with a magnetic key that unlocks them.
However, some users have reported that the locks can become unlocked or be hard to open.
Installation and Design
The Safety 1st Adhesive Magnetic Lock System is easy to install. They require no drilling or complex tools, making them a breeze to install. The locks are adhesive, meaning they can be installed quickly and easily.
The design of the locks is also a notable feature. They are discreet, blending seamlessly with your cabinets. However, some users have reported that the adhesive could be stronger.
Pros
- Provides safety for children
- Easy to use
- Easy to install
- Discreet design
Cons
- The locks can become unlocked or be hard to open
- The adhesive could be stronger
Bottom Line
The Safety 1st Adhesive Magnetic Lock System is a reliable and user-friendly solution for childproofing your home. They are easy to install, effective, and blend seamlessly with your cabinets. While there are a few minor drawbacks, such as the strength of the adhesive and the locks becoming unlocked, the overall consensus among users is positive.
Safety 1st OutSmart Slide Lock
The Safety 1st OutSmart Slide Lock is a childproofing device designed to keep your little ones out of cabinets and other spaces they shouldn’t be exploring. This innovative product features a prominent decoy button that can be pushed by a child, but has no effect, while the actual secret to opening the lock is hidden.
Decoy Button and Hidden Lock
One of the key features of the Safety 1st OutSmart Slide Lock is its unique design. The lock features a prominent decoy button that a child can push, but it has no effect. The actual mechanism to open the lock is cleverly hidden. This feature is a pro as it outsmarts curious children who are trying to access locked cabinets. However, a potential con could be that adults may also find it confusing at first.
Easy Installation and Versatility
The OutSmart Slide Lock is designed to work with hardware up to 4.5 inches apart and can be used on cabinets with large knobs or handle pulls. This makes it versatile and suitable for a variety of home setups. The lock is also easy to install with no drilling required. However, a potential downside is that it may not fit all types of cabinets or handles.
Pros
- Innovative decoy button design
- Easy installation with no drilling required
- Versatile and can be used on a variety of cabinets
- Strong enough to keep even the cleverest of toddlers out
Cons
- May be confusing to use initially due to the decoy button
- May not fit all types of cabinets or handles
Bottom Line
The Safety 1st OutSmart Slide Lock is an innovative childproofing device that keeps your little ones safe from potentially dangerous items in cabinets. With its unique decoy button design and easy installation, it’s a great addition to any home with curious toddlers. However, it may require some initial adjustment and may not fit all cabinet types.
KidCo 12 Count Swivel Cabinet and Drawer Lock
The KidCo 12 Count Swivel Cabinet and Drawer Lock is a safety product designed to keep your cabinets and drawers secure. This product is available on Amazon and has received positive reviews for its functionality and design.
Intuitive and Secure
One of the key features of the KidCo Swivel Cabinet and Drawer Lock is its swivel arm. This feature allows for the lock to become disengaged for those times when the lock is not needed. This means you can easily access your cabinets and drawers when you need to, and secure them again when you’re done.
Another notable feature of this product is its screw mount design. The locks secure with screws inside the cabinet or drawer. This ensures a sturdy and reliable lock that won’t easily be tampered with. The product also includes the necessary mounting screws.
Pros
- The swivel feature allows the locks to be temporarily disengaged.
- The screw mount design provides a secure and reliable lock.
- The package includes mounting screws, so there’s no need to purchase additional hardware.
- The pack of 12 locks is enough to secure multiple cabinets and drawers.
Cons
- The installation requires some basic DIY skills to screw mount the locks.
- Depending on the design and material of your cabinets and drawers, these locks may not be suitable.
Bottom Line
The KidCo 12 Count Swivel Cabinet and Drawer Lock is a practical and reliable solution for securing your cabinets and drawers. With its swivel feature and screw mount design, it offers both convenience and security. However, ensure it is suitable for your specific cabinets and drawers before purchase.
QT Baby Baby Proofing Cabinet Locks
The QT Baby Baby Proofing Cabinet Locks are a popular choice among parents and caregivers looking to secure their home environment for their little ones. These locks are designed to keep babies and toddlers out of cabinets, drawers, and closets, providing peace of mind for adults and safety for children.
Design and Installation
The QT Baby Baby Proofing Cabinet Locks feature an adjustable U-shaped design that fits most cabinets and drawers. They come in a pack of 6 and are available in a modern Thunder Grey color. The installation process is straightforward and doesn’t require any tools. However, some users have noted that the locking mechanism needs to be slid in the right direction to ensure it locks in place.
Durability and Effectiveness
While these locks are effective in keeping babies out of cabinets, their durability has been a point of contention among users. Some users have found the plastic to be thin and cheap, expressing concerns that a strong toddler might be able to break them. Despite this, they have been praised for their easy placement and removal, even with one hand.
Pros
- Easy to install and remove
- Adjustable U-shaped design fits most cabinets and drawers
- Effective in keeping babies out of cabinets
- Available in a modern Thunder Grey color
Cons
- Plastic material may be thin and potentially breakable
- Locking mechanism needs to be slid in the right direction to ensure it locks in place
Bottom Line
The QT Baby Baby Proofing Cabinet Locks are a practical solution for baby-proofing your home. They are easy to install and remove, and their adjustable design fits most cabinets and drawers. However, their durability could be a concern for some users. Overall, they are a decent choice for those seeking a simple and effective way to keep their little ones safe at home.
Adoric Life Child Safety Locks
Adoric Life Child Safety Locks are a popular choice among parents and pet owners looking to secure their homes. These locks are designed to keep children and pets out of cabinets, drawers, and other areas where they could potentially get into trouble.
Ease of Installation
One of the standout features of the Adoric Life Child Safety Locks is their ease of installation. They come with strong adhesive tape, which means no tools or drilling are required. Users have found these locks easy to install and equally easy to open and close. However, it’s worth noting that some crafty children or pets may still find a way to tamper with the locks.
Versatility
Another notable feature of these locks is their versatility. They are adjustable with an extra-long U-shaped latch, allowing the maximum lock length to extend up to 5 inches. This makes them suitable for a variety of cabinets, cupboards, fridges, doors, and windows.
Pros
- Easy to install with no tools required
- Versatile and adjustable, fitting a variety of furniture and appliances
- Effective at keeping children and pets out of restricted areas
Cons
- Some children or pets may still find a way to tamper with the locks
- There have been instances where the locking part fell out of the contraption
Bottom Line
Overall, the Adoric Life Child Safety Locks are a practical and cost-effective solution for childproofing your home. They are easy to install, versatile, and generally effective at keeping children and pets out of restricted areas. However, like any product, they are not without their flaws. Some users have reported issues with the locking mechanism, and crafty children or pets may still find a way to tamper with the locks. Despite these minor issues, many users have found these locks to be a valuable addition to their homes.
Conclusion
Child safety locks are an essential part of any home with young children. By choosing the right locks, you can help keep your little ones safe from harm.
We hope this guide has helped you choose the best child safety locks for your cabinets and drawers.