Spring Cleaning Safety Tips

In North Carolina, April is the unofficial ‘get outside’ month. As we transition from late winter to beautiful spring days in Raleigh and Clayton, many of us are heading straight for the garage and garden shed to start our spring cleaning and lawn care. 

While we love a manicured lawn and a tidy home, many of our favorite spring cleaning and gardening supplies can be dangerous for curious kids. At Kids First Pediatrics, we want to make sure your spring refresh is as safe as it is productive for your little ones. 

The ‘Look-Alike” Trap

Children are naturally curious, and they often identify things by color and shape rather than labels. To a toddler, a blue window cleaner could look like a berry-flavored juice. Colorful laundry pods could look like gummy candy, and granular fertilizer can look like sprinkles! North Carolina Poison Control has a helpful guide.

Solution: always keep products in their original containers. Never pour chemicals into old juice bottles or food storage containers. 

Secure the “Hot Zones” 

The garage and the cabinet under the sink are the most common sites for accidental ingestions. 

• Up and Away: store fertilizers, pesticides, and heavy-duty cleaners on high shelves. If possible, keep them in a locked cabinet.

• The click test: ensure all child-resistant caps are clicked into place. Remember: “Child-resistant” does not mean ‘child-proof. A determined toddler can be surprisingly resourceful. 

Know Who to Call 

Even with the best precautions, accidents happen. We recommend every parent in the Triangle area do two things today: 

1. Add the Poison Control Center to your phone contacts: 1-800-222-1222

2. Make the number visible around your house for easy access by babysitters and grandparents. 

If you suspect your child has swallowed or touched something toxic, call Poison Control immediately before trying to induce vomiting or giving them anything to drink. They are the experts and can guide you on whether you need to head to the ER or follow up with us at our office. 

And as always, feel free to reach out to our team with questions: (919) 250-3478

*This article is informational and is not a substitute for medical attention or information from your provider.