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How to childproof plug sockets and cables 2024

A child playing with an electrical socket

Childproofing electrical sockets

Do you need plug socket covers?

The short answer is no. Not in the UK. Since 1947, plug sockets sold in the UK have had to conform to the BS 1363 standard. This means they have insulated shutters which close when the plug is pulled out. This is to stop children from inserting anything into them. The plug pin holes are also too small for a child’s fingers.

Some argue that socket covers are actually dangerous. This is because they’re not recommended so they are not regulated. So they might not be the precise same size as a UK plug and if the pins are not the correct length they could overheat and catch fire. There are also concerns that a child could plug it in upside-down which would open the shutters of the holes below and expose them to live contacts.

Three pin electrical socket cover

What’s the alternative if you don’t want a child playing with a socket?

You can buy full electrical socket covers rather than pin covers. These are boxes that cover the entire socket and will stop a child from playing with the socket and turning off the fridge, computer, TV, fish tank etc.

Alternatively, you could block access to the socket with heavy appliances or furniture.

HOW CAN YOU STOP A CHILD FROM PLAYING WITH THE ELECTRICAL CABLES AND WIRES?

Wires and cables could be chewed on or tripped over. They could also pose a strangulation risk. To make them safer you could use simple cable ties. Or there are cable tidy boxes and covers available.

THE BEST PLUG SOCKET COVERS AND CABLE TIDIES

This list has been narrowed down to the very best with thorough research and the following considered:

  • Consumer reviews

  • Best-seller lists 

  • Recommendations from industry experts

  • Award-winning products

  • Personal experience and the products loved by other parents.

The list is updated annually. It was last updated on 10 February 2024. 

If you buy through a link, I may earn a small affiliate commission. 5% of profits are donated to UK Baby Banks to help parents in need of essentials.

 
 

 
 

1. BabySecurity Electric Plug Socket Cover

Childproofing socket cover.
 
  • Socket cover for a single UK plug.

  • Could also be used with light switches.

  • There is a squeeze release mechanism for parents to open them.

  • To install just loosen the screws of the socket, position the cover as per the instructions, and then tighten the screws.

 
 

2. Clippasafe Socket Protector

Clippasafe socket cover.
 
  • This is a double-sized cover but the manufacturers say it can also be attached to a single socket.

  • Same easy installation method as the BabySecurity cover above.

  • Press buttons on both sides of the cover to open it.

 
 

3. Safetots Universal Plug Socket Cover

Babyproofing plug socket cover.
 
  • Available as a single or double socket cover.

  • Parents can access it by squeezing and releasing it.

  • Easy installation.

 

4. Safetots Cable Tidy Unit

Cable tidy for childproofing
 
  • A box with space for cables and a four-socket extension lead.

  • Three cable exit/entry points.

  • W32 x H12.5 x D11.5 cm

  • Available in black and white.


5. D-Line Cable Tidy Box

D-Line Cable Tidy Box
 
  • This cable tidy box has been made in the UK from electrically safe plastic.

  • Available in small (L32.5 x W12.5 x H11.5cm) and large (L41.5 x W16.5 x H13.5cm).

  • Three cable entry/exit points.

  • Comes in black and white.

  • Optional extras include a cable tidy tube and a cable spiral wrap.


6. D-Line cord cover

D-Line cord cover
 
  • Used to cover cables, often above skirting boards.

  • Comes in one-metre lengths, which can be cut to size.

  • They have a strong adhesive backing to fix them to the wall.

  • They are hinged for access with a click-lock lid.

  • Available in white, aluminium effect, black, magnolia, oak effect and red.