How To Babyproof Sliding Doors: Protecting Your Little Ones From Potential Hazards

Sliding doors and toddlers: a recipe for disaster? Let’s be honest; it can feel that way sometimes!

Those little explorers are drawn to them like magnets.

But don’t worry, it doesn’t have to end in tears.

If you’re wondering “How to babyproof sliding doors”, this blog is your survival kit so you can keep your kids safe and your sanity intact.

Why Babyproofing Sliding Doors Is a Must

Kids are curious creatures.

They’re constantly on the lookout for adventure.

And what’s more adventurous than a giant door that magically slides open?

Sliding doors are practically irresistible to little ones. But here’s the thing: those doors can be the cause of many tears.

• Pinched Fingers: Those sliding doors can slam shut unexpectedly, and tiny fingers are often in the wrong place at the wrong time!

• Tumbles and Falls: Kids can easily lose their balance and take a tumble through an unlocked sliding door.

• Access to Danger Zones: Sliding doors often lead to outdoor areas, which can be full of hazards for little ones. Pools, ponds, busy roads—you name it, they’ll find it.

• Broken Glass: If your sliding doors have glass panels, there’s always the risk of them getting broken, creating sharp, dangerous edges.

We don’t want to scare you, but we want you to know the potential dangers.

Babyproofing your sliding doors isn’t just about preventing minor bumps and bruises; it’s about preventing serious accidents.

So, trust us on this one—babyproofing is non-negotiable.

Popular Babyproofing Solutions for Sliding Doors

So, how do you turn those tempting sliding doors into safe zones?

Here are some tried-and-true solutions for how to babyproof sliding doors.

• Sliding Door Locks: These are your first line of defence, and you’ve got a few options.

o Latch locks: These guys stop the door from sliding open.

o Foot locks: Securing the door at the bottom.

o Adhesive locks: Super easy to stick on.

• Door Guards and Bumpers: These are like the soft cushions for your doors, preventing those painful finger pinches.

Foam door guards for babies or door bumpers attach to the door’s edge, creating a soft landing.

And soft-close mechanisms? Genius! No more slamming doors.

• Shatter-Proof Glass or Safety Films: If you’ve got glass sliding doors, this is a big one.

Shatter-proof glass or safety film is like a shield for your doors, preventing them from shattering.

Doors Plus’s Safeglass® is a fantastic option—super strong and designed to keep your family safe.

• Track Covers: These clever little covers fit over the door track, stopping kids from getting their fingers stuck.

They’re easy to install and clean!

• Baby Gates: This is your best friend for blocking off access to sliding doors, especially if they lead to no-go zones.

They’re like a temporary wall, keeping your little explorer contained.

DIY vs. Professional Babyproofing

Some babyproofing jobs are easy to tackle yourself. Putting on locks, guards, and track covers?

You’ve got this! However, for things like Safeglass® installation or really heavy doors, it’s often best to call in the professionals.

Doors Plus can help with child-safe sliding door installations, making sure everything is done right and your doors are super secure.

Think of us as your babyproofing backup—we’re here to help when you need it.

Want to try some DIY lock options?

Here are the most popular types of sliding door locks for toddlers you’ll find.

1. Latch Locks: These clever little guys prevent the door from sliding open. They’re usually installed at the top of the door and come in a few different styles.

a. Adhesive: Just peel and stick! Make sure the area is clean and the lock lines up correctly.

b. Screw-Mounted: More secure, but you’ll need to drill some holes. Follow the instructions carefully, but not difficult to install!

c. Magnetic: These use magnets to keep the door closed. They’re usually pretty easy to install, but check the instructions just in case.

2. Foot Locks: These secure the door at the bottom, making it harder for little ones to open the door.

a. Installation Tip: These often require some drilling, so make sure you’re comfortable with that before you start. Follow the instructions carefully, and make sure the lock is securely in place.

3. Adhesive Locks: This is your no-drill option! They’re super easy to install and can be used on sliding doors and windows!

a. Installation Tip: Clean the surface, peel off the backing, and stick it on. Easy!

Maintaining Safety While Preserving Style

No one wants their home to look like a playground.

You’ve worked hard to create a stylish space and don’t want to ruin it with clunky babyproofing gear.

The good news is, you don’t have to!

Many safety products these days are designed to be discreet and blend in with your décor.

Think sleek locks, stylish safety glass, and track covers that practically disappear.

Doors Plus offers customisable safety features that look great and keep your kids safe.

It’s the best of both worlds!

And remember, even the best babyproofing needs a check-up every now and then.

Give those locks a wiggle, check the guards, and make sure everything is still in top shape.

It only takes a few minutes and could prevent a major headache down the track.

FAQs About How To Babyproof Sliding Doors

How Do You Babyproof a Sliding Glass Door?

Firstly, install locks to prevent curious hands from opening the door.

Secondly, apply safety film or upgrade to Safeglass® to prevent the glass from shattering if it’s ever broken.

Safeglass® is a super strong option that will give you extra peace of mind.

Don’t forget door guards to prevent those painful finger pinches.

Finally, consider track covers to stop little fingers from getting stuck in the track.

What Is the Best Lock for a Sliding Door?

The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to choosing the best lock for your sliding door.

It really depends on your specific needs and the type of door you have.

Think about your budget, as prices can vary significantly.

Consider how easy the lock is to install—some are a breeze, while others might require a bit more DIY know-how (or even a professional!).

And finally, think about the level of security you need.

Can You Babyproof a Sliding Door Without Drilling?

There are definitely options that don’t require screws.

Adhesive locks, door guards, and track covers can often be installed without any tools.

However, for some locks and for maximum security, you might need to drill.

It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind.

Create a Safer Home With Babyproof Sliding Door Solutions

Babyproofing your sliding doors is one of the most important things you can do to keep your kids safe at home.

Whether you’re a DIY superstar or prefer to call in the pros, the key is to be proactive.

Doors Plus is here to help with child-safe sliding doors, offering Safeglass®, a huge range of locks, and expert installation.

Get in touch with us today for a free measure and quote—let’s make babyproofing your home easy with no fuss!