6 Cheap Ways New Parents Can Baby-Proof Their Homes
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Brands and retailers are well aware that the mortal coils for tots are literal and plentiful. Need to baby-proof an electrical outlet, a cabinet or a sharp-cornered table? There's a product or 10 for each of those things. And they all cost money. A pack of outlet covers? That'll set you back $10. Table corner guards? Another $10. There are tried and true ways to skip the marketing noise and baby-proof your home without buying pricey junk.
Painters Tape On Outlets
Rather than buying outlet covers to apply to every outlet in your home, get some painter's tape (this 3-roll pack of standard blue painter's tape goes for $10 on Amazon) and cover individual outlets with strips of it. It's easy for adults to remove and reapply and may even be more effective than products made specifically for covering outlet plugs, which babies and toddlers sometimes figure out how to remove.
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Pool Noodle Pieces On Table Corners
Once you have a baby or toddler in your home, you start to see how much stuff in your house has edges. Not just tables, but also bookshelves, TV stands, fireplace hearths and sometimes more. Baby-proof dangerous corners by getting a pool noodle (no need to buy a new one if you already have one) by slicing it lengthwise to make a slit and wrapping it around the furniture's edges. It creates a kind of foam bumper.
Rubber Bands Or Hair Ties On Cabinet Handles
This is a favorite ultra-cheap, DIY baby-proofing hack: using rubber bands or hair ties to make cabinets off-limits. All you have to do is tie one around the two cabinet door handles (double-looped is best) to keep the doors closed.
Towels Under Doors
You may have heard of using towels under doors to contain noise, but this hack serves another purpose; you can put a towel under a door to prevent it from slamming or closing on your little one's fingers.
Socks On Door Knobs
You can spend $10 on four door knob protectors, or you can use old socks. By slipping one over a doorknob and securing it with a rubber band or hair tie, you make it so a baby or toddler, who doesn't yet have the muscular control or motor skills to do very precise things with their fingers, can't open the door.
Plastic Wrap Over Toilets
Toddlers — including those who are not yet going through potty training — can develop quite a fascination with toilets. They may want to play with the water inside or throw things in and flush them away. You can buy toilet seat locks, or you can take a little time and DIY a solution. Wrap plastic wrap (Saran wrap is perfect) over the toilet bowl when not in use to keep the toilet lid shut.
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"I Forgive Myself" Forgiving yourself can be one of the hardest things to do, especially if you grew up in an environment that thrived on blame. Toxic parents might have constantly blamed you for their problems or yours, leaving you feeling guilty for things beyond your control. This can create a cycle of self-reproach that's challenging to break. Self-forgiveness involves acknowledging your mistakes and understanding that you're human. It's a powerful step in reclaiming your narrative and fostering inner peace. Practicing self-forgiveness allows you to let go of past mistakes and embrace personal growth. It involves recognizing that no one is perfect, and everyone makes errors. By forgiving yourself, you release the burden of guilt and create room for improvement. This practice encourages self-compassion and resilience, enabling you to move forward with confidence. Accept that forgiving yourself is a journey, not a destination. 12. "I Am Worthy Of Happiness" Feeling worthy can be challenging when your parents constantly undermine your self-esteem. You might have been given the message, intentionally or not, that you're only as valuable as your last achievement or mistake. As an adult, this can manifest as a persistent feeling of inadequacy or imposter syndrome. You might find yourself in a cycle of seeking validation through accomplishments, never truly believing in your inherent worth. Breaking free from this mindset involves recognizing your worth is intrinsic and not contingent on external factors. Embracing your worthiness requires self-acceptance and compassion. This journey involves challenging the negative narratives instilled in you and rewriting them with affirmations of your value. As you internalize this belief, you'll notice a shift in how you approach challenges and relationships. Recognizing your worth allows you to pursue goals genuinely aligned with your values, rather than seeking approval. 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The Best Stainless Steel Lunch Boxes for Young Kids: Safe, Durable & Parent-Approved
Looking for the best stainless steel lunch boxes for your child? Here are the top non-toxic and kid-friendly bento boxes that are durable and easy to clean. Packing your child's lunch shouldn't come with a side of plastic leaching, soggy sandwiches, or complicated cleanup. If you're looking for a healthier and more sustainable alternative to plastic lunch containers, stainless steel lunch boxes are the gold standard, especially for young kids. They're durable, eco-friendly, and free from harmful chemicals like BPA, phthalates, and microplastics. Here's what to look for in a great stainless steel lunch box, and our top picks that make mealtime simple, safe, and fun. Why Choose Stainless Steel Lunch Boxes? Let's face it: kids drop things. A lot. Stainless steel withstands rough use, unlike plastic, which can crack, warp, or leach chemicals when exposed to high temperatures. Here's why stainless steel is a top choice for parents: Non-toxic and safe: No BPA, PVC, phthalates, or lead Durable and long-lasting: Built to survive school bags and lunchtime tosses Eco-friendly: Replaces disposable plastic bags and single-use containers Easy to clean: Most are dishwasher-safe And for little ones who love variety? Stainless steel bento boxes make it easy to pack balanced, colorful meals, without the food touching (because yes, that matters when you're 5). What to Look for in a Kid-Friendly Stainless Steel Lunch Box Portion-sized compartments to help encourage variety and easy eating Secure but easy-to-open latches for small hands Leak-proof or separate containers for dips, yogurts, and sauces Lightweight design that won't add extra bulk to a backpack (this is so important!) Dishwasher-safe for busy parents The Best Stainless Steel Lunch Boxes for Young Kids Here are our top picks for stainless steel lunch boxes suitable for preschoolers and older children. 1. PlanetBox Rover Best for variety-loving kids and picky eaters This cult-favorite stainless steel bento box is perfect for school-aged kids who love a little bit of everything. It features five compartments and comes with optional leak-proof containers for dips and yogurts. The Rover is also endlessly customizable with magnets and fun accessories. Food-grade stainless steel Dishwasher-safe Durable and school-friendly 2. LunchBots Medium Bento Trio Best compact option for preschoolers or snacktime Simple, sleek, and sturdy, LunchBots are a great pick for younger kids with smaller appetites. The Trio has three sections; the Quad has four. These boxes fit perfectly in most standard lunch bags and come in colorful lids to keep things fun. Lightweight and easy to open No plastic touching food Multiple layout options for different appetites 3. The Good Kind Stainless Steel Lunch Box Best for toxin-free peace of mind Created by a mom who was frustrated with plastic lunch boxes labeled 'safe,' The Good Kind lunch box is a 100% non-toxic option with no BPA, phthalates, melamine, or microplastics. It features a food-grade stainless steel interior and a leak-resistant silicone lid—so it's perfect for wet foods like yogurt or fruit. Plus, it's dishwasher-safe and easy for kids to open on their own. Designed by a mom Leak-resistant silicone lid Food never touches plastic Save 10% when you shop The Good Kiind! 4. Bentgo Stainless Steel Leak-Resistant Bento Box Best leak-resistant option This stainless steel bento box from Bentgo offers the best of both worlds: a durable metal interior with a leak-resistant silicone-sealed lid. It's ideal for older toddlers or kindergarteners who want to bring yogurt, applesauce, or pasta with sauce. Leak-resistant lid BPA-free and food-grade Available in several fun colors 5. Ahimsa Lunch Square Duo Best for sandwiches and simple lunches This stainless steel lunch box set is a total win for low-tox, eco-conscious families. Made by a pediatrician-founded brand, the Ahimsa Lunch Square Duo is thoughtfully designed with two perfectly portioned compartments—ideal for packing a sandwich and a side or keeping hot and cold foods separate. It's made from premium food-grade stainless steel, with no plastic parts (not even in the lid!) and no hormone-disrupting chemicals. Lightweight, dishwasher-safe, and built to last, it's a safe and sustainable lunch solution for even the tiniest hands. 💡 Great for toddlers, preschoolers, and early elementary kids. Pro Tips for Packing Stainless Steel Lunches Use silicone baking cups or mini food containers to hold dips, fruits, or muffins inside the box Include ice packs to keep food fresh (since single-walled stainless steel doesn't insulate) Involve your child in lunch planning to get them excited about what's inside! Final Thoughts A good stainless steel lunch box isn't just a parenting win, it's a daily step toward a healthier, low-tox lifestyle. With options for every budget and age, these bento boxes make it easy to pack real food, cut down on waste, and ditch the plastic for good. Whether your little one is starting preschool or heading into the elementary years, a stainless steel lunch box is one of those investments that just makes sense. Safe, practical, and built to last... what more could you ask for?
