Kitchen Safety With Young Children
By Ellis Okonjo · Oct 1, 2026 · 5 min read
In a nutshell
Hot drinks, pan handles, and cleaning products are common causes of accidents.
The kitchen is a busy, fascinating place for children and also one of the riskiest rooms.
Simple habits reduce the risk of burns, cuts, and poisoning.
Tip 1 Burns and scalds
- 💡 Keep hot drinks out of reach and never hold a child while holding a hot drink
- 💡 Turn pan handles inward
- 💡 Use back burners or rings
- 💡 Keep kettle cords short and out of reach
Tip 2 Chemicals
Store cleaning products, dishwasher tablets, and laundry pods high up or in locked cupboards.
Tip 4 Cooking together
Involve children in age-appropriate tasks like washing vegetables or stirring cool mixtures.
Tip 5 If an accident happens
For burns and scalds, cool the area under cool running water for at least 20 minutes, remove clothing and jewellery near the burn (unless stuck), and cover loosely with cling film. Do not use ice, butter, or creams. Seek medical help for burns on babies and young children, large burns, or burns to the face, hands, feet, or genitals. If a child swallows a cleaning product, contact your local poison-control service or emergency number immediately and keep the packaging.
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.