When we think of the many ways to ensure our homes are safest they can be for our children, window falls are usually a concern. But, parents still often overlook a potentially serious item, window covering cords.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), corded window coverings are one of the top five hidden hazards in American homes.  Corded window coverings are a strangulation hazard as infants and young children can accidentally become entangled in the cords. A serious accident can only take seconds.

The CPSC, the window covering industry and consumer safety advocates all agree that only cordless window coverings or those with inaccessible cords should be used in homes with young children.

What can you do?

Replace window blinds, corded shades and draperies with products that are cordless or have inaccessible cords, such as those marked with the “Best for Kids” label certification, available at major retailers in the U.S.

The Best for Kids™ certification program makes it easy for parents and caregivers to make the right choice to help them identify the window covering products that are best suited for homes with young children. In order to be eligible for this certification, manufacturers must meet the specified program criteria and submit their window covering products to a designated third party testing laboratory.  Once products pass testing, they may be labeled Best for Kids™.

To maximize window covering cord safety when young children are present, parents should follow these safety guidelines:

  • Install only cordless window coverings or those with inaccessible cords in homes with young children.  Replace window blinds, corded shades and draperies with products that are cordless or have inaccessible cords, such as those marked with the Best for Kids™ label certification. There are many cordless window covering options offered today at retailers across the country.
  • Move all cribs, beds, furniture and toys away from windows and window covering cords, preferably to another wall.
  • Ensure that all window covering cords are out of sight and reach, by shortening or tying them up and away, so that they are inaccessible to young children.