I need to baby-proof my electrical outlets and cords. What are the best solutions?

The safest setup is a layered approach: make the outlets child-resistant, keep cords inaccessible, and eliminate unnecessary extension cords/power strips.

• SnapPower SafePlate - $15.75 (SnapPower)
• Safety 1st Outlet Cover with Cord Shortener - $5.79 (Walmart)
• Safety Innovations Self-Closing Outlet Covers - $14.95 (Walmart - Safe Beginnings)
• Jool Baby Electrical Outlet Cover Box - $14.99 (Nordstrom)

Outlets

• Unused outlets: Use snug-fitting child-resistant outlet plugs. The CPSC specifically recommends outlet covers that children can't easily remove and that aren't small enough to be choking hazards.
• Outlets you use frequently: A self-closing outlet plate is more convenient than constantly removing and replacing individual plugs. It automatically covers the openings when a plug is removed.
• Best long-term option: If you're replacing receptacles anyway, consider tamper-resistant (TR) receptacles. Their internal shutters resist insertion of objects into the slots, and the CPSC recommends them when replacing receptacles.
• Outlets with plugs that must stay connected: Use a secure outlet cover box that encloses the plug and prevents a child from pulling it out.

Cords

This is where I'd be particularly cautious. Don't just bundle cords loosely on the floor.

• Route cords behind furniture or along the wall, completely out of your child's reach.
• Use cord-management channels/raceways to keep accessible sections enclosed.
• Keep excess cord length shortened and secured rather than dangling.
• Don't use nails, staples, or anything that can crush or damage the cord insulation. CPSC warns that damaged insulation can create shock and fire hazards.
• Avoid running cords underneath rugs or carpeting where they can be damaged or overheat.
• If a cord is cracked, frayed, crushed, unusually warm, or has a damaged plug, replace it rather than trying to baby-proof it.

For extension cords, use properly rated cords with appropriate safety features; CPSC notes that inadequate cords can create both shock and fire hazards.

Power strips and chargers

For a power strip that has to remain accessible, put the entire strip inside a child-resistant power-strip/outlet enclosure, rather than simply covering the unused sockets.

Also avoid overloading power strips. In 2026, CPSC recalled a power-strip model because inadequate overcurrent protection created a fire hazard.

A practical setup I'd use

1. Every unused wall outlet: child-resistant plug or TR receptacle.
2. Frequently used outlets: self-closing safety plate.
3. Plug that stays connected: enclosed outlet/plug box.
4. Floor-level cords: reroute them behind furniture or inside a cord raceway.
5. Power strip: keep it inaccessible or enclosed.
6. Loose/damaged/old cords: replace them.
7. Check everything periodically: toddlers can defeat safety devices, and CPSC emphasizes that no child-safety device is completely childproof.

If you tell me your child's age and which cords/outlets you're trying to secure (TV, lamps, phone chargers, nursery, power strip, etc.), I can recommend the most appropriate setup and specific products for each situation.

Also avoid overloading power strips. In 2026, CPSC recalled a power-strip model because inadequate overcurrent protection created a fire hazard.

A practical setup I'd use

Baby-proofing your electrical outlets and cords is one of the most critical steps in making your home safe for a mobile baby or toddler.

Here are the best solutions categorized by type to completely secure your space:

• Outlet Covers (Sliding Plates): Replace standard wall plates with self-closing sliding covers. As soon as you pull a plug out, the spring-loaded covers slide shut automatically so little fingers can't touch anything. This is a massive upgrade over removable plastic caps, which are a choking hazard and easily pulled out by curious toddlers.
• Tamper-Resistant Receptacles (TRR): The gold standard for modern homes. These have internal shutters that block access if a child tries to push a single object (like a key or a hairpin) into one slot. They only open when equal pressure is applied to both sides simultaneously (like inserting a standard plug). If your home doesn't have these built-in, you can have an electrician upgrade your outlets or use full-plate cover replacements.
• Cord Shorteners and Winders: Wrap up the slack on long appliance and lamp cords. Keeping excess cord off the floor prevents a crawling baby from pulling a heavy lamp, iron, or TV down onto themselves.
• Cord Concealers and Raceway Channels: Stick-on or screw-in plastic channels that run along the baseboard or wall to hide cords completely out of sight. This stops curious toddlers from chewing on or pulling down exposed wire runs.
• Heavy-Duty Cord Covers / Floor Cord Protectors: If cords must cross an open floor space, use a rubber or heavy plastic floor channel. This prevents tripping hazards and keeps tiny hands from grabbing the cord.
• Outlet Box Covers / Full Enclosure Covers: Bulky plastic boxes that screw or snap over the entire outlet and plug (frequently used for things that stay plugged in 24/7 like baby monitors or routers). These keep the entire connection hidden and locked away from grasping fingers.

If you want, tell me:

• Are you looking for temporary rental-friendly options or permanent installations?
• Do you have specific trouble areas (like behind a TV entertainment center or a bedside lamp)?

I can help you prioritize what to buy first and how to set it up.

Absolutely. For most homes, I’d use a layered approach: secure the outlets themselves, then physically route or cover cords so a crawling/toddling child can’t grab, chew, or pull them.

Best solutions

1. Use tamper-resistant outlets — best long-term solution

If you're willing to have an electrician replace your receptacles, tamper-resistant (TR) outlets are an excellent permanent upgrade. The CPSC specifically recommends them when replacing receptacles because they help prevent objects from being inserted into the slots.

This is especially useful if you have lots of outlets and don't want dozens of removable plastic plugs.

2. Cover unused outlets

For outlets you aren't using, simple outlet plugs are inexpensive and effective. The important part is that they're large enough not to be a choking hazard and difficult for a child to remove.

• Safety 1st Ultra Clear Plug Protectors - $6.88 (The Home Depot)
• Power Gear Safety Outlet Covers - $8.99 (Jasco)
• Ubbi Outlet Covers - $8.99 (Target)

Tip: Check every room—including outlets behind furniture. Don't assume a piece of furniture will stay in front of an outlet once your child becomes mobile.

3. For outlets that are actually in use, use a full outlet cover

A basic plug doesn't help much when a lamp, charger, or other device is plugged in. For those, use an enclosure that covers the outlet and plug, ideally with a mechanism that an adult can open but a toddler can't.

• SnapPower SafePlate - $15.75 (SnapPower)
• Safety 1st Outlet Cover with Cord Shortener - $5.79 (Walmart)
• Regalo Home Safety Outlet Cover Box - $14.99 (Target)

The cord-shortener style is particularly useful because it also reduces the amount of loose cord a child can grab.

4. Route cords out of reach

For cords running along walls, use a cord raceway/cord cover rather than leaving them exposed. Secure the raceway firmly to the wall or baseboard and route it where your child can't pull on it.

• Legrand Wiremold CordMate II - $31.87 (The Home Depot)
• Legrand Wiremold CordMate - $17.98 (The Home Depot)
• Legrand Wiremold Corduct Over-Floor Cord Protector - $14.48 (The Home Depot)

For cords crossing a floor, use a purpose-made floor cord protector rather than simply taping the cord down.

5. Eliminate unnecessary extension cords

If possible, rearrange furniture or have an electrician add an outlet rather than running a permanent extension cord where a child can reach it. Extension cords also need to be properly rated and undamaged; CPSC notes that unsuitable cords can create shock and fire hazards.

Never use damaged, frayed, hot, or loose-fitting cords/plugs.

A simple setup I'd use

For a typical house with a crawling baby:

• Every unused outlet: child-resistant outlet plug.
• Every outlet that's actively being used: enclosed outlet/plug cover.
• Long cords along walls: rigid cord raceway.
• Cords on the floor: floor cord protector or, preferably, reroute them.
• Chargers: keep the adapter and excess cable out of reach rather than dangling beside the crib/couch.
• Baby monitor cords: keep the entire cord well away from the crib; CPSC specifically warns to keep all cords away from babies.
• Damaged or questionable cords: replace them rather than trying to childproof them.

One important distinction: cord covers are for preventing access/tangling—not for making a dangerous cord safe. A child should not be able to pull an appliance, yank an energized plug, or chew on an accessible cord.

If you tell me your child's age and whether you're baby-proofing an entire house, a nursery, or a specific room, I can give you a room-by-room setup and shopping list.

The cord-shortener style is particularly useful because it also reduces the amount of loose cord a child can grab.

4. Route cords out of reach

For cords running along walls, use a cord raceway/cord cover rather than leaving them exposed. Secure the raceway firmly to the wall or baseboard and route it where your child can't pull on it.

• Legrand Wiremold CordMate II - $31.87 (The Home Depot)
• Legrand Wiremold CordMate - $17.98 (The Home Depot)
• Legrand Wiremold Corduct Over-Floor Cord Protector - $14.48 (The Home Depot)

For cords crossing a floor, use a purpose-made floor cord protector rather than simply taping the cord down.

5. Eliminate unnecessary extension cords

If possible, rearrange furniture or have an electrician add an outlet rather than running a permanent extension cord where a child can reach it. Extension cords also need to be properly rated and undamaged; CPSC notes that unsuitable cords can create shock and fire hazards.

Never use damaged, frayed, hot, or loose-fitting cords/plugs.

A simple setup I'd use

The best solutions for baby-proofing electrical outlets and cords are tamper-resistant receptacles, sliding outlet covers, full-enclosure outlet boxes, and wall-mounted cord shorteners or concealment channels.

Protecting your child from electrical hazards requires securing both the bare sockets where nothing is plugged in and the active cords that curious hands can pull or chew.

Securing Unused Outlets

• Tamper-Resistant Receptacles (TRRs): These feature internal spring-loaded shutters that block foreign objects from being inserted unless pressure is applied simultaneously to both sides. Replacing old outlets with TRRs provides permanent, building-code-approved safety.
• Self-Closing / Sliding Outlet Covers: These replace your existing wall plates. When a plug is removed, a spring-loaded sliding cover automatically snaps shut over the receptacles.
• Plug Protectors (Caps): Inexpensive plastic caps push directly into unused sockets. Ensure you buy large, tight-fitting versions with pull-tabs so they do not pose a choking hazard if a toddler manages to pull one loose.

Securing Active Outlets and Plugs

• Full-Enclosure Outlet Boxes: These clear or white plastic boxes screw directly over the entire wall plate and enclose the plugged-in cord, preventing toddlers from pulling plugs out or touching exposed prongs.
• Ultra-Thin Flat Plug Extension Plates: Products like the Sleek Socket Go to product viewer dialog for this item. sit flush against the wall and cover the entire outlet, hiding the plug face entirely while blending into the baseboard.

Managing and Concealing Cords

• Cord Shorteners / Winders: Wrap excess slack from lamps or electronics around a plastic spool or wind-up case to keep dangling loops away from a child's reach.
• Cord Concealers (Raceways): Rigid plastic channels stick or screw along baseboards or walls, enclosing wires so they cannot be grabbed or chewed.
• Heavy Furniture Placement: Position heavy couches, dressers, or entertainment centers directly in front of outlet areas to physically block access to the cords.
• Cord Clips and Zip Ties: Bundle loose cords tightly and anchor them high up along the back of furniture frames out of sight.

If you'd like, tell me:

• Are you renting or a homeowner (willing to swap out wall plates/outlets)?
• Do you have specific trouble spots (like behind a TV media center or next to a crib)?

I can give you a more tailored installation plan.

Yes. The safest approach is to protect the outlets themselves, then make every reachable cord inaccessible. The U.S. CPSC specifically recommends outlet covers/plates and says that if you replace receptacles, use tamper-resistant (TR) receptacles.

Best solutions

1. Use tamper-resistant outlets — best long-term solution

If you're comfortable having an electrician replace outlets, TR receptacles are my preferred option. They have internal shutters that help prevent a child from inserting an object into just one slot.

For a home with a crawling baby, this is preferable to relying exclusively on removable plastic plugs. CPSC specifically recommends tamper-resistant receptacles when replacing outlets.

2. For existing outlets, use secure outlet covers

For unused outlets, use covers that:

• Cannot be easily pulled out by a toddler.
• Are large enough not to become a choking hazard.
• Fit your particular outlet style securely.

CPSC emphasizes that outlet protectors need to be difficult for children to remove and large enough that they aren't choking hazards.

• Safety 1st Secure Press Plug Protectors - $3.49 (Safety 1st)
• Safety Innovations Self-Closing Outlet Covers - $29.95 (Walmart - Safe Beginnings)
• Leviton Outlet Protector Safety Caps - $2.63 (The Home Depot)
• Safety 1st Ultra Clear Plug Protectors - $6.88 (The Home Depot)

My preference: for outlets you rarely use, simple secure plug covers are inexpensive and effective. For outlets that you'll regularly use, a self-closing outlet plate is more convenient because the protection remains in place after you unplug something.

3. For outlets that have something plugged in, use an outlet box/cover

This is particularly useful for:

• Lamps
• TV/electronics
• Chargers
• Baby monitors
• Floor-level outlets behind furniture

A box-style cover encloses the plug and gives the child less opportunity to pull it out or play with the cord.

• Regalo Home Safety Outlet Cover Box - $14.99 (Target)
• Jool Baby Electrical Outlet Cover Box - $14.99 (Nordstrom)
• Safety 1st Outlet Cover with Cord Shortener - $5.79 (Walmart)
• Safety 1st Power Strip Outlet Cover - $11.99 (ANB Baby Store)

4. Keep cords completely out of reach

For loose electrical cords, don't just bundle them up and leave the bundle accessible. Route them behind furniture, use an appropriately secured cord-management channel, or move the device so the cord isn't accessible.

Also:

• Don't run cords under rugs or carpets.
• Don't use damaged or frayed cords.
• Don't attach cords to walls/baseboards with nails or staples.
• Avoid overloading extension cords or power strips.

CPSC notes that damaged cords and improperly used extension cords can create shock and fire hazards.

5. Pay special attention to power strips

Power strips sitting on the floor are particularly tempting for toddlers. Ideally, relocate them somewhere inaccessible rather than simply covering them.

If you can't relocate one, use a purpose-built power-strip cover and keep the cable routed away from the child's reach.

6. Don't overlook window-blind cords

These are a different and potentially much more serious cord hazard: strangulation rather than electrical shock. CPSC says cordless window coverings are the safest option; if you have corded blinds, keep cords completely out of reach and follow CPSC's anchoring/shortening recommendations.

What I'd do in a typical home

For a crawling/early-walking baby:

1. Install tamper-resistant outlets when practical.
2. Put secure covers on every unused accessible outlet.
3. Put enclosed outlet boxes around frequently used plugs at floor level.
4. Move power strips off the floor and out of reach.
5. Route every reachable cord behind furniture or through secure cord management.
6. Get rid of damaged/loose cords.
7. Replace accessible corded blinds with cordless ones.
8. Get down on the floor at your baby's eye level and inspect every room—you'll spot hazards that aren't obvious from adult height.

One important point: don't consider any single product "childproof." CPSC explicitly notes that determined toddlers can defeat safety devices, so physical inaccessibility plus appropriate safety hardware is the better strategy.

If you tell me your baby's age and whether you're dealing mainly with wall outlets, power strips, TV/entertainment cords, or charging cables, I can give you a room-by-room setup and specific products to buy.

These are a different and potentially much more serious cord hazard: strangulation rather than electrical shock. CPSC says cordless window coverings are the safest option; if you have corded blinds, keep cords completely out of reach and follow CPSC's anchoring/shortening recommendations.

What I'd do in a typical home

For a crawling/early-walking baby:

The best solutions for baby-proofing electrical outlets and cords are sliding outlet covers, tamper-resistant receptacles, and secure cord concealer boxes or raceways.

Watch this helpful guide on how to properly install safety covers and manage excess cords near outlets:

2:07 How To Child Proof Electrical Outlets 7.6K views  · 4 years ago YouTube · Bill Of All Trades

Outlet Safety Solutions

• Self-Closing / Sliding Outlet Covers : These replace your standard wall plates. They feature spring-loaded sliding panels that automatically close shut when you unplug a cord, preventing children from poking objects inside.
• Tamper-Resistant Receptacles (TRRs) : These feature built-in shutters that block access to the contacts unless a two-pronged plug is inserted evenly. Modern building codes require these in new homes, and they are a permanent upgrade over standard outlets.
• Outlet Plug Protectors (Caps) : Inexpensive plastic caps push directly into unused sockets. Note : Choose caps with pull-tabs so adults can remove them easily, and ensure they are large enough that they don't pose a choking hazard.
• Full-Size Outlet Box Covers : These enclose both the outlet and the plugged-in adapter or cord head inside a locked plastic case, preventing toddlers from pulling plugs out of the wall.

Cord Management Solutions

• Flat Plug Extension Cords / Sleek Sockets : Ultra-thin flat wall-hugging devices cover the entire outlet and hide cords against the wall, making it nearly impossible for small hands to grab or yank plugs.
• Cord Shorteners and Winders : Enclosed plastic wheels or winders let you wrap up excess slack safely, keeping loose loops off the floor where a baby can pull or trip on them.
• Cord Concealment Raceways / Channels : Rigid plastic channels stick to the baseboard or wall, enclosing exposed cords entirely so they remain out of sight and out of reach.
• Cord Drop Clips and Heavy-Duty Ties : Adhesive clips or wraps route cords high up along the back of furniture legs or along baseboards, well out of a crawling infant's grasp.

If you want, let me know:

• Are you dealing with empty outlets or frequently used plugs (like near a TV or lamp)?
• Do you live in a rented or owned home?

I can give you a more specific plan for your setup.

Absolutely. The safest setup is layered protection: make the outlets inherently child-resistant, then manage cords so there’s nothing tempting or reachable.

1. Best long-term solution: tamper-resistant outlets

If you're willing to have an electrician do a little work, tamper-resistant receptacles (TRRs) are my top choice. They have built-in shutters that stay closed unless a plug applies pressure to both slots simultaneously. They look and function like normal outlets, so you don't have to remove little plastic plugs every time you use an outlet. The CPSC specifically recommends tamper-resistant receptacles when replacing outlets.

Best for: the whole house, especially if you're renovating or replacing old outlets.

2. Easiest DIY option: covers for unused outlets

For outlets your child can reach but that aren't being used, use child-resistant outlet plugs/covers. Choose ones that are difficult for a child to remove and don't present a choking hazard.

• Safety 1st Plug Protectors - $2.96 (Walmart)
• Regalo Outlet Safety Plugs - $6.99 (Target)
• Safety 1st Ultra Clear Plug Protectors - $6.88 (The Home Depot)

For a crawling baby, I'd put covers on every accessible unused outlet, rather than relying on supervision.

3. Outlets that have something plugged in

This is where ordinary outlet plugs don't help. Use a secure outlet cover/box that encloses the plug and prevents your child from pulling the plug out or accessing the live outlet.

• Jool Baby Electrical Outlet Cover Box - $14.99 (Nordstrom)
• Regalo Home Safety Outlet Cover - $8.98 (The Home Depot)
• Safety Innovations Self-Closing Outlet Cover - $29.95 (Walmart - Safe Beginnings)

These are particularly useful for things that stay plugged in, such as lamps, chargers, routers, or baby equipment.

4. Manage the cords themselves

• Keep cords out of reach and sight whenever possible. This is especially important for baby monitors, lamps, chargers, and power strips.
• Use cord-management channels/raceways to route cords along the wall rather than leaving loops on the floor.
• Don't run electrical cords under rugs or carpets, where they can be damaged or overheat.
• Don't secure cords with nails or staples; they can damage the insulation and create shock/fire hazards.
• Get rid of any cord with cracked, frayed, crushed, or damaged insulation.
• Avoid unnecessary extension cords. If you constantly need one, adding an outlet is generally safer than having a permanent maze of extension cords.

5. Don't forget GFCI protection

In areas around water—bathrooms, kitchens, laundry areas, garages, etc.—make sure appropriate outlets have working GFCI protection. GFCIs reduce the risk of severe electric shock, and the CPSC recommends testing them regularly according to the manufacturer's instructions.

My recommended setup

If I were baby-proofing a home from scratch, I'd do:

1. Tamper-resistant receptacles throughout the house where practical.
2. Child-resistant covers on every accessible unused outlet.
3. Enclosed outlet boxes for outlets that must remain plugged in and are within baby's reach.
4. Wall-mounted cord channels for accessible cords.
5. No loose loops, dangling cords, damaged cords, or cords under rugs.
6. GFCIs wherever required/appropriate around water.

One important point: no childproofing product is completely "childproof." The CPSC recommends treating these devices as part of a broader safety strategy and checking that they're properly installed and remain secure.

If you tell me your child's age and whether you're in an apartment/rental or your own home, I can also give you a room-by-room setup (nursery, living room, kitchen, etc.) and a shopping list.

Baby-proofing electrical outlets and cords is one of the most critical steps in creating a safe home for a mobile baby or toddler. Here are the best, industry-recommended solutions to keep little fingers and curious hands protected:

For Electrical Outlets

• Outlet plugs (Plastic Caps): These are individual plastic plugs that insert directly into unused outlets. Note: Make sure to buy the modern, rigid, hard-to-pull-out kind rather than small, clear plastic ones that can become a choking hazard if a toddler manages to yank them out.
• Sliding outlet covers: These replace your existing wall plates entirely. As you pull a plug out, a spring-loaded sliding cover automatically snaps shut over the holes. This is a favorite solution because you never have to worry about removing or losing a separate cap.
• Tamper-resistant receptacles (TRRs): If you are remodeling or replacing older outlets, installing TRRs is the gold standard. They feature built-in shutter mechanisms that block access unless pressure is applied simultaneously to both sides (like a standard two-pronged plug), preventing children from inserting foreign objects. You can find options on the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) resource page.
• Full-plate box covers: Ideal for outlets that are constantly in use (like a lamp or TV plug). These clear or solid plastic boxes enclose the entire plug and outlet so a child cannot pull the cord out or access the prongs.

For Cords and Power Strips

• Cord shorteners / Winders: These wrap up excess cord length so dangling wires don't tempt a crawling baby to pull on them or get tangled around their neck.
• Cord concealment raceways / Channels: These are rigid plastic channels that stick to the baseboard or wall, routing cords neatly and safely out of reach.
• Heavy-duty cord clips: These secure loose cords tightly along the back or underside of heavy furniture (like entertainment centers or desks) so they aren't hanging loose.
• Power strip covers: Similar to full-plate covers, these enclose entire power strips and multi-plugs, hiding the switches and individual cords from little fingers.

If you'd like, let me know:

• Are you looking to baby-proof temporary spaces (like a rental) or permanent fixtures?
• Do you have specific areas giving you trouble (like behind a TV console or next to a bed)?

I can help you prioritize which products fit your exact setup best.

Baby-proofing your electrical outlets and cords is one of the most critical steps in childproofing. Little fingers and curious minds love exploring wall sockets, and trailing cords present both a choking/pulling hazard and an electrical risk.

Here are the best solutions for securing your home:

For Electrical Outlets

• Sliding Outlet Covers (Self-Closing Plates): These replace your existing outlet faceplates. As soon as you unplug a cord, a spring-loaded plastic cover slides shut automatically. This is the gold standard because parents don't have to worry about reinstalling a separate cap every time they use an outlet.
• Outlet Box Covers / Full-Plate Covers: These clear or white plastic boxes enclose the entire outlet and the plugged-in cords. They are ideal for outlets with cords that stay plugged in permanently (like a lamp or TV), preventing curious toddlers from unplugging cords or biting on exposed prongs.
• Tamper-Resistant (TR) Receptacles: If you are building or renovating, building codes now widely require these. They feature internal shutters that block foreign objects from being inserted unless equal pressure is applied to both sides simultaneously (like a standard two-prong plug).
• Traditional Plastic Outlet Caps: These are individual plastic plugs pushed into unused sockets. While cheap and common, use caution : they can be a choking hazard if a child manages to pull them out, and they don't help with active cords.

For Cords and Wires

• Cord Shorteners and Wraps: For dangling lamp, phone charger, or appliance cords, use adhesive or wall-mounted cord winders to wrap up the excess slack and keep it high up off the floor and out of reach.
• Cord Concealers / Raceway Channels: These flat, paintable plastic channels stick to the baseboards or walls. You snap the cords inside them so they run cleanly along the wall instead of dangling or looping across the floor.
• Floor Cord Covers: If a cord has to cross an open floor space (like an area rug or open room), use a heavy-duty rubber floor cord protector. This prevents a child from tripping, pulling, or chewing on the wire.
• Power Strip Covers: Power strips are a major hazard because they have multiple switches and plugs. Enclose the entire power strip in a heavy-duty, locking enclosure box designed specifically to keep toddler hands away from the switches and plugs.

If you'd like, tell me:

• What type of flooring or wall material you have (for adhesive cord channels)
• Whether these are high-traffic areas or behind furniture

I can help you pick the most durable and practical products for your specific layout.

Absolutely. The safest approach is to protect the outlet itself, then eliminate or secure accessible cords. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) specifically recommends outlet covers/plates that children can't easily remove, and says that if you replace receptacles, use tamper-resistant (TR) outlets.

Best solutions

1. Tamper-resistant outlets — best long-term solution

If you're comfortable having an electrician replace outlets, TR receptacles are my first choice. They have internal shutters that help prevent a child from inserting an object into one side of the receptacle.

• Legrand radiant 20-Amp Tamper-Resistant Outlet - $12.73 (The Home Depot)

For a home with young children, I'd consider replacing standard outlets with TR outlets during your next electrical work. The U.S. Fire Administration also recommends tamper-resistant outlets when young children are present.

2. Sliding/self-closing outlet covers — excellent for existing outlets

These replace the wall plate and automatically cover the receptacle when a plug is removed. They're much better for everyday use than tiny removable plastic caps, which can themselves become accessible small objects.

• SnapPower SafePlate - $24.75 (SnapPower)

3. Locking outlet boxes — best when something must stay plugged in

For outlets behind a TV, lamp, router, baby monitor, etc., use a cover box that encloses both the outlet and the plug. This prevents a toddler from pulling the plug out or accessing the receptacle.

• Regalo Home Safety Outlet Cover Box - $14.99 (Target)
• Jool Baby Electrical Outlet Cover Box - $14.99 (Nordstrom)
• EUDEMON Baby Safety Outlet Cover Box - $9.90 (Walmart - EUDEMON Baby)

CHOP specifically lists outlet-cover boxes that accommodate plugs and cords, including models with cord-shortening features and power-strip covers.

4. Secure cords against the wall

For cords running to lamps, TVs, chargers, etc.:

• Route them behind furniture whenever possible.
• Use a cord channel/raceway secured to the wall rather than leaving a loose cord across the floor.
• Use cord clips/organizers to keep slack out of reach.
• Keep power strips behind furniture or inside a properly secured enclosure.
• Don't leave phone/tablet charging cables dangling where a child can pull them.
• Don't run electrical cords under rugs or carpets; CPSC warns that this can prevent heat from escaping.

For a desk/entertainment center with lots of cables, a cable-management box can be useful:

• Legrand Wiremold CordMate Powered Cable Management Box - $42.62 (The Home Depot)

5. Don't rely on outlet covers alone

Think about what happens when a child pulls on the cord. A cord can pull a lamp, appliance, power strip, or other object down even if the outlet itself is protected.

Also avoid daisy-chaining extension cords/power strips and don't overload them.

What I'd do in a typical home

Unused outlets: TR outlets or secure sliding outlet covers.

Outlets with a plug that stays in: Locking outlet cover box.

Loose cords: Wall-mounted cord channel + clips, with excess cord shortened and secured.

Power strips: Put them somewhere inaccessible and use a purpose-built power-strip enclosure if necessary.

Baby monitor: Keep its cord well away from the crib and sleeping area; CPSC specifically warns about baby-monitor cords.

Best overall setup: tamper-resistant outlets + locking boxes for continuously plugged-in devices + physical cord management. That's substantially better than buying a big pack of little outlet plugs and calling the room baby-proofed.

If you tell me your baby's age and which rooms you're baby-proofing (e.g., nursery, living room, kitchen), I can give you a room-by-room setup and shopping list.