Disclaimer

For parents of young children, electrical outlets present one of the most common household hazards. Fortunately, there are several effective and affordable ways to reduce the risk, ranging from simple plastic covers to permanent outlet replacements.

Basic Outlet Plugs

The most common and least expensive solution is a plastic outlet plug that fits into unused outlet slots. These are effective but have a downside: they’re small, easy to lose, and can become a choking hazard if a child manages to pry one out.

Sliding Outlet Covers

Sliding covers replace the entire outlet plate with a version that has a spring-loaded cover over each slot. When you plug something in, the cover slides out of the way; when you unplug it, the cover automatically slides back into place. These are more convenient than individual plugs because there’s nothing small to remove and lose.

Box-Style Outlet Covers

For outlets that have something plugged in most of the time, like a lamp or a phone charger, a box-style cover encloses the entire outlet and cord in a locked plastic box. This is one of the most secure options for outlets that are in constant use.

Tamper-Resistant Receptacles (TRRs)

The most permanent solution is to replace standard outlets with tamper-resistant receptacles, which have been required by electrical code in new construction since 2008. TRRs contain an internal shutter mechanism that only opens when both prongs of a plug are inserted simultaneously with equal pressure — something a child’s finger or a single object can’t replicate. Because they’re built into the outlet itself, there’s nothing to install, remove, or lose.

Installing TRRs Yourself

Replacing a standard outlet with a tamper-resistant one is a manageable DIY task for anyone comfortable with basic outlet swaps — turn off the power at the breaker, disconnect the old outlet, connect the wires to the new TRR in the same configuration, and secure it in the box. If you have outlets throughout the house to replace, an electrician can do the job efficiently and confirm everything is wired correctly.

Don’t Forget Power Strips and Cords

Childproofing shouldn’t stop at the wall. Look for power strip covers, and keep cords tucked away and out of reach, since chewing on a cord poses its own electrical and choking risk.