Blind Cords and Furniture Tip-Overs: Hidden Home Hazards
By Maya Fairbrook · Oct 20, 2026 · 5 min read
In a nutshell
Looped cords and unsecured furniture cause serious injuries. Both are easy to fix.
Some of the most serious home hazards for young children are easy to overlook.
Blind cords and heavy furniture are two of them.
Tip 1 Blind cords
Looped cords can strangle young children. Use cordless blinds, or fit cleats to wrap cords out of reach. Move cots and beds away from windows.
Tip 2 Furniture tip-overs
- đź’ˇ Anchor bookcases, wardrobes, and chests of drawers to walls
- đź’ˇ Secure TVs with straps or wall mounts
- đź’ˇ Put heavy items on lower shelves
- đź’ˇ Do not put tempting items on top of furniture
Tip 3 Check regularly
As children grow, they reach higher. Recheck hazards every few months.
Tip 4 See also
Our childproofing checklist.
Tip 5 Other strangulation risks
Be aware of other cords and straps: electrical cables, curtain ties, bag straps, and dressing gown cords. Do not hang toys or bags on cots, and keep baby monitor cables well out of reach. Remove drawstrings from children’s clothing hoods. Check play equipment in gardens for ropes and gaps where heads could become trapped.
This is general parenting information, not medical advice. Every child is different — talk to your paediatrician, family doctor, or a qualified specialist about your child’s health, development, or behaviour. In an emergency, call your local emergency number.