Preparing for your baby safely

Bringing your baby home is an exciting milestone, and preparing your home and lifestyle before their arrival can help you feel more confident about keeping them safe.

You don’t need to make major changes to your home. Many aspects of baby safety come down to choosing suitable equipment, creating safe spaces and understanding how to respond as your baby grows and becomes more mobile.

Here are some key areas to consider when preparing for your baby.

Home and pet safety

Your home may already be a safe environment for adults, but babies have different needs. As your baby grows and becomes more mobile, everyday household items can become potential hazards.

Before your baby arrives, consider checking your home for potential risks including stairs, windows, blind and curtain cords, electrical outlets, hot surfaces, household chemicals and medicines. Installing smoke alarms and safety switches and keeping hazardous items securely stored can also help create a safer environment.

If you have a pet, preparing them for your baby’s arrival is also important. Start making any necessary changes to your pet’s routine, sleeping arrangements or access to parts of the house during pregnancy, rather than after your baby arrives.

Dogs should always be closely supervised around babies and young children. Even a friendly and familiar dog can react unexpectedly, particularly when eating, sleeping, unwell or feeling frightened. Create separate spaces for your baby and pet when you cannot supervise them.

You can also help your pet adjust by gradually introducing them to baby sounds, equipment and changes to their routine before your baby arrives.

For more information: Visit Raising Children Network’s guide to newborn home and pet safety.

Safe equipment and furniture

There can be a lot of equipment to choose from when preparing for a baby. When purchasing, borrowing or accepting second-hand items, check that they are safe, stable, in good condition and meet relevant Australian or Australian/New Zealand safety standards. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for assembly and use.

A safe cot or portacot should meet the Australian Consumer Goods (Infant Sleep Products) Safety Standard 2024. Your baby’s mattress should be firm, flat, level, clean and fit snugly within the cot. Your baby should sleep on their back on a clear, firm and flat sleep surface.

Other equipment, including prams, highchairs, change tables and baby carriers, also has specific safety considerations.

Remember that second-hand equipment may not meet current safety standards. If you are unsure about an item’s safety history, it is safest not to use it.

For more information: Visit Raising Children Network’s guide to safe baby equipment and furniture.

Travelling during pregnancy

Travelling during pregnancy is common, and many expectant parents take the opportunity to enjoy a ‘babymoon’ holiday before their baby arrives. For most women with an uncomplicated pregnancy, travel is generally safe, although the best time to travel can depend on your individual circumstances.

Before planning a trip, speak with your obstetrician or maternity care provider, particularly if you have a high-risk pregnancy or any concerns about travelling. It is also important to check your airline’s pregnancy travel requirements and make sure your travel insurance provides appropriate cover for pregnancy-related care.

For longer journeys, staying hydrated and moving regularly or wearing compression stockings can help reduce the risk of blood clots. When travelling by car, take regular breaks to get out and walk around and always wear your seatbelt correctly, with the lap section sitting low across your pelvis and below your bump.

Consider your destination carefully, including access to healthcare, local health risks and the activities you plan to undertake. If you are unsure whether a particular destination or activity is suitable during pregnancy, talk with your obstetrician or maternity care provider before you travel.

Getting ready for your baby

Preparing for your baby’s arrival doesn’t mean making your home completely risk-free or buying every product available. The most important steps are creating a safe sleep environment, choosing appropriate equipment, supervising your baby closely and adapting your home as they grow and develop.

Taking some time during pregnancy to think about these areas can help you feel prepared and confident when your baby arrives.

For detailed, practical information about keeping your baby safe at home and when you’re out and about, visit Raising Children Network, which provides trusted Australian information for parents and families.