As you prepare to welcome your little one, there are probably a million things running through your mind when it comes to “baby-proofing” your home. While we cannot cover every safety tip out there, there are some important steps you can take to keep your family comfortable and safe during this new stage of life.

Babies and Temperature

The most important thing to remember is that babies are unable to regulate their internal temperature as easily as adults can. If the room is kept too cold, babies will often become fussy and have trouble sleeping. If the room is too hot, it could lead to heat rash and even put your child at a higher risk of SIDS. The key is to keep the temperature “just right.” Professionals recommend keeping your baby’s room temperature at 68-72°F (20-22.2°C) year round. Invest in an indoor thermometer to track the temperature of your child’s room.

Make sure to watch for any signs of overheating, including sweating, heat rash, restlessness, flushed cheeks, and rapid breathing. To combat the risk of overheating and SIDS, avoid over- bundling, keep the crib bare, and have your baby sleep on their back.

Your HVAC System

It’s no surprise that your HVAC system is at the center of maintaining a safe and comfortable home environment. As you prepare to bring your baby home, here are a few steps you can take to ensure your unit is running at maximum efficiency.

• Schedule Regular Maintenance Check-Ups
  Ideally, you would schedule these check-ups twice a year in order to increase your system’s longevity and catch any issues early to avoid emergency situations. A poorly maintained HVAC system can circulate dust and other allergens throughout your home, putting your baby’s respiratory system at risk.

• Consider Upgrading to a Digital Thermostat
  There are several benefits to having a digital thermostat, including helping you regulate your home’s climate more accurately and efficiently.

• Install a Carbon Monoxide Alarm
  To guard your family against inhaling this otherwise undetectable and life-threatening gas, consider installing carbon monoxide alarms on every floor of your home. Make sure to check its functionality during your routine inspections.

• Increase Ventilation
  Ceiling fans are a great solution to ensure the air in your child’s room is circulating. Using a fan can decrease the risk of SIDS and prevent “re-breathing.”

• Clean Your AC Filter
  Follow your manufacturer’s instructions on how to clean or replace your AC filter once every few months.

• Keep Surrounding Area Clear
  Keep any objects and clutter away from the unit by at least 2 feet.