7 Insanely Easy Hacks to Child Proof Your Light Switch!

  • Post category:Baby Proofing
  • Post last modified:November 2, 2023
  • Reading time:8 mins read
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I have figured out and come up with 5 ways to child proof light switch covers, so if your kids ever turn off the lights while you’re sleeping at night, you know who’s responsible!

Kids are curious and always playing in search of discovery. Sometimes it is fun to explore, but there are some things that parents can’t trust them with. Electrical outlets and light switches in your room are two of those things. Parents need to childproof these items before their toddlers start exploring on their own, and the picture gets tragic.

Why parents should childproof light switch covers?

Parents need to start doing child proof light switch guards for all the rooms in their house, of course, to protect their children. If parents don’t childproof these items, their toddlers could get electrocuted or hurt if they ever touch them without supervision.

Since toddlers are curious, they are very likely to try touching the electrical outlet with their fingers just to see what happens. If you have ever seen a fly get zapped by an electric fence, then you know that this is not something that anyone would want to happen, especially if it was your kid!

It will be difficult for even some adults to survive some household electricity by sticking their hands in a switched outlet. Since kids are smaller, they are more susceptible to getting hurt from the electric shock compared to adults.

This article is part of our master series on baby proofing, click here to learn more about baby proofing other things in your home.

Ways to childproof light switches

1) Use light switch covers with locks

Light switch covers are just as susceptible to being childproofed as the actual switches! In most cases, some of the covers come with a unique buckle lock design on them so you can childproof your own home without doing anything yourself (which is always a plus).

Make sure you purchase covers that fit your current light switches, though. If they are tight and you’ve to squeeze them or don’t match up perfectly, then it won’t work too well.

SaleBestseller No. 1
Wall Switch Guard, ILIVABLE Childproof Light Switch Plate Covers Protects Your Circuits from being Accidentally Turned On or Off by Children and Adults (White, 2 Pack)
  • Lock Down the Hidden Danger: These Toggle Switch Shields can effectively prevents accidental shutdown or opening of items connected to the switch and prevents children from messing the switch
  • Controllable switch: The unique buckle design structure can lock and completely close the switch
  • Easy to Install: Just install the light switch guard once and you don’t have to worry about switch anymore
  • Extra Screw: In most cases, installing the light switch lock will increase the thickness of the switch panel, making the original screw not long enough. We have extra lengthened screws to accommodate the increased thickness
  • Compatible: These wall switch guards fit any standard toggle light switch. Perfect match with white switch Plate
Bestseller No. 2
Wall Switch Guard, Child Proof Light Switch Cover Guard | Toggle Style | Light Switch Protection | Keep Toggle Switch in On or Off Position | 1 Pack, White
  • EXCLUSIVE DESIGN: This light switch guard is designed to provide an extra layer of protection for your standard toggle switch, preventing accidental toggling or tampering.
  • EASY TO OPERATE: Press both sides of the cover to open. The exclusive child-proof design makes it difficult for young children to open, but easy for adults to open and close.
  • MADE TO LAST: Made from high-quality materials, these light switch cover guards are built to withstand daily use, ensuring long-lasting protection for your switches. They are resistant to cracking or breaking, providing reliable and consistent performance.
  • EASY INSTALLATION: Easy installation utilizes included extended screws. The secure fit ensures that the covers remain in place, effectively protecting your switches.
  • SIMPLE AND EFFECTIVE: These wall switch guards are a practical solution for safeguarding light switches in homes, offices, schools, or any setting. They effectively prevent accidental switch toggling or unauthorized access, providing peace of mind.
Bestseller No. 3
CLYMENE Light Switch Cover Guard, Child Proof Wall Switch Cover Keeps Lights or Switches from Being Accidentally Turned ON or OFF, Rocker Style (Clear, 2 Pack)
  • 【SOLUTION FOR SWITCH SAFETY】These light switch covers can effectively prevent accidental shutdown or opening of items connected to all rocker-style switches and also can help you prevent children from messing with the switches.
  • 【EXCLUSIVE DESIGN】The unique light switch cover guard uses a lock mechanism that’s very easy for adults to operate yet difficult for a toddler. Designed to allow you to cover the switch whether it is on or off.
  • 【EASY INSTALLATION】Remove the existing wall plate screws, align the switch lock with the holes, and screw the backing plate right over the wall faceplate.
  • 【UNOBTRUSIVE HOME HELPER】The virtually invisible clear design blends with any home décor or wall plate. It acts as a gentle reminder to distinguish frequently used switches from seldom used ones.
  • 【GUARD COMPATIBILITY】The light switch cover guards work with any standard rocker-style wallplates. Comes with extra lengthened screws to accommodate increased faceplate thickness.

2) Make the switches inaccessible

To make the switches inaccessible, you can either make the circuit breaker disconnected by turning them off or test them to make sure they are not receiving any juice. Once you’ve made sure that there is no power, you can get creative with your childproofing by using tape, extra screws, and positioning just about anything else to ensure that nothing here is accessible while power flows through it.

This method of child proof light switch would be especially effective since adults rarely look at their light switch guards anyways.

4)Put stickers over the switches

I know what you’re thinking: “Are children really dumb enough to put stickers on light switch covers?” Well, yes! But if you put stickers on the light switch guard that looks fun and inviting for them, maybe they’ll take them off before they turn the lights off. If they don’t, you’ll know who is responsible for turning off your lights!

5) Change the configuration of the switch

Switches come in a variety of configurations, so why not change it up a bit and try new things? I have seen switches with three switches on one plate and even switches with four buttons. Try some or all of them to see if this will stop kids from cutting power to your home and means nighttime trips by playing with it!

Just remember those light switch covers can get a bit dirty after being touched once, so clean the covers before swapping out locations.

This method would be very effective because it’s replaceable and customizable, and most people won’t think about changing their current setup unless they set it up themselves.

So if your kid tries to turn on/off the switches while you’re sleeping, maybe they’ll find a way to shut them off!

6) DIY solutions to childproof light switch covers

Super easy steps on how to DIY child proof light switch cover:

1.) Unscrew the screws from the wall plate.

2.) Remove it from the wall.

3.) Take some electrical tape and cover up all sharp edges.

4.) Put some glue along the openings.

5.) Place back onto the wall and screw everything back together in existing screw holes.

6.) Test if everything is in position, safe, and done!

This quick DIY child proof light switch cover solution saves you time, money and can be a lifesaver. The process is not expensive, and one can easily do it in a short span of time. This is also ideal for renters who do not want to spend too much when they cannot change any part of their home’s interior design or structure.

Also, watch this video for more DYI solutions:

Don’t forget to Buy Switch outlet covers

Switch outlet covers

Baby safety outlet covers are lifesavers for stopping little fingers from getting electrocuted; they also stop curious children from unplugging lamps and other appliances so they can play with them.

Bestseller No. 1
Outlet Covers Babepai 38-Pack White Child Proof Electrical Protector Safety Improved Baby Safety Plug Covers
  • Safety Protection – Our outlet covers protect your children from accidents and prevent electrocution,outlet plugs can make sure that your little explorer cannot reach into your home’s electric sockets
  • Excellent Outlet Covers – Our outlet covers are solid white and there are three holes can completely cover the entire socket to blend in to your home while keeping your home a safer place
  • Easy installation – Simply insert the safety caps in the unused outlets, plug protector will fit firmly in outlet. Our electrical outlet covers will keep your baby safe and sound, even if you are not in the same room
  • Value for Money – Our safety outlet plug covers 38-pack will give you a bigger bang for your buck and allow you to childproof your home, office, garage, vacation home, grandparents’ home or hotel room without having to spend a small fortune
  • Baby Proof Your Home – Baby safety is always the priority. Our baby proof outlet covers are made to offer safety and peace of mind for you and your family. Pick us, we are extremely confident to provide you an excellent purchase experience with high quality baby safety outlet cover and start enjoying greater safety in your home
SaleBestseller No. 2
6-Pack Safety Innovations Self-Closing Outlet Covers (For Center Screw Outlets Only) – Measures 3″Wide x 4.75″High-An Alternative To Wall Socket Plugs for Child Proofing Outlets, (1-Screw), (White)
  • PLEASE READ INSTALLATION TIPS LIST IN IMAGES – SAFE, RELIABLE BABY PROOFING PROTECTION: You’ll be relieved to know that when an electrical cord is unplugged our plate has covers that slide shut automatically. Unlike many other outlet covers, our outlet covers are not universal because one size does NOT fit all! We offer a cover for each outlet style…one for standard outlets (with a single center screw) and one for decora outlets (with a top and bottom screw). Order the style you need so they fit and operate best! Covers Measure 3″ X 4 3/4″
  • SAFER, BETTER ALTERNATIVE TO TRADITIONAL OUTLET CAPS: No more struggling to remove caps or remembering to replace them. Your child is protected from electrical outlets and also from the potential risk of choking on caps.
  • SUPERIOR STYLING AND BETTER QUALITY MATERIALS: You know how awful it looks when you see dents and chipped paint surrounding your outlets. Our covers are slightly oversized to cover these flaws and also have stronger springs to for better long-term protection. Truthfully, you’ll really never have to remove them because they look great.
  • EASY INSTALLATION: Remove your existing wall plate and replace with our self-closing wall plate. All you need is a screwdriver and a few minutes of your time. No mechanical skills required!
SaleBestseller No. 3
Safety Innovations Twin Door Baby Safety Outlet Cover Box for Babyproofing Outlets – More Interior Space for Extra Large Electrical Plugs and Adapters – Easy to Install – Easy to Use, (1-Pack)
  • This is a Big Box! – Our double locking system (top and bottom buttons) requires two hands to open for better safety. Easy for adults to operate but difficult for babies and toddlers. PLEASE WATCH OUR INSTALLATION VIDEO.
  • INSIDE DIMENSIONS MEASURE 5 3/8″ High x 3 3/16″ Wide x 2 3/4″. Deep USABLE INTERIOR SPACE THAN ANY OTHER BABYPROOFING BOX COVER- Extra large size and depth for bigger plugs.- All usable space!
  • EASY INSTALLATION- PLEASE WATCH OUR INSTALLATION VIDEO. All you need is a screwdriver. Takes only minutes to install. Comes with screws and faceplates for installing to both popular outlet styles- Standard/Single Center Screw and Decora/2 Screw (1 Top and 1 Bottom Screw).
  • KEEP ELECTRICAL PLUGS OUT OF BABY’S REACH- Large, oversized design for childproofing plugs and AC adapters from baby monitors, three prong power cables, surge protectors, USB chargers, power strips, phone and electrical plugs and chargers. Extra large interior has room for cord depth when plugged in. Works with larger cords, power strip plugs, baby monitor plugs.
  • PEACE OF MIND FOR MOMS, DADS AND GRANDPARENTS- BABYPROOF YOUR ELECTRICAL OUTLETS WITH OUR TWIN DOOR OUTLET COVER SAFETY BOX – Outlet Cover Box hides extra large electrical plugs and adapters and keeps them tucked away and out of your baby’s reach. Prevents your child from unplugging electrical plugs. Protects curious babies, toddlers and young children from getting to electrical outlets and plugs. Perfect solution for bedroom, nursery, kitchen, home office, garage or any other room in your home.
SaleBestseller No. 4
Power Gear 51175 Safety Plastic Outlet Covers, 30 Pack, Clear
  • Child Safety – Covers unused receptacles to help babyproof living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens and playrooms by preventing objects from being inserted into outlets
  • Easy Installation – Clear safety covers simply plug into unused outlets and are removed by adults without tools
  • Secure Fit – High-quality, one-piece design fits tightly into unused three-prong or two-prong wall outlets and is difficult for infants or young children to remove
  • Multipack Kit – The set of 30 outlet covers is perfect for new home construction, renovations, offices, day cares, schools or businesses
  • Peace of Mind – These UL-listed outlet covers come with a no-hassle, one-year limited replacement plan and are backed by the highest industry standards of safety and performance
Bestseller No. 5
ELEGRP 15 Amp Tamper Resistant White Electrical Wall Outlet, 125V, UL Listed, 20 Pack
  • Tamper Resistant: Child proof shutter mechanism inside the receptacle prevents young children from inserting unwanted objects into the outlets. Easier to use by inserting and unplugging several times.
  • Self-Grounding: A green grounding screw and self-grounding clip provide for automatic grounding in the junction box, protecting you from electrical shock.
  • Easy Installation: Designed for quick push-in wire and side wire. Break-off plaster ears for best flush alignment. Break-off tabs allow easy two-circuit conversion. Shallow dimensions allow for maximum wiring space in the junction box with other outlets and switches.
  • High Quality: High-impact resistant thermoplastic face and back body eliminate cracks, breaks and callbacks, create a finger-safe application before, during and after installation, and offer long, trouble-free service life.
  • Glossy Finish: Soil-resistant gloss finish allows for easy cleaning.

Also read: 14 Simplest ways to Baby Proofing Drawers & Cabinets without Drilling

Conclusion

So parents, do not let your toddlers touch electrical outlets or light switches anymore! Keep them immediately away from the hidden danger of catching electrical shock. Just pick a way of childproofing light switches with the super easy methods mentioned above that only takes around fifteen minutes to complete.

Also read my other Babyproofing posts:

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Bob

My name is Bob. I am a young and proud father of two boys. My wife and I do a lot of research before buying baby products and love to share my reviews and suggestions with parents.