When you are baby-proofing your home, the doors are easy to overlook. But the hinge side of a door can be very dangerous. If a child gets their finger stuck in the narrow hinge gap, it can cause serious injury.
The solution to this problem is very simple. A door hinge finger guard covers the gap between the door and its frame to prevent little fingers from getting trapped. Continue reading to learn what you should look for in a door hinge finger guard.
Make sure it covers the entire hinge and is durable.
The guard should cover the full height of the hinge side, from top to bottom. A half guard or a short strip halfway up the hinge is pointless. As for materials, look for something flexible yet durable. The guard should be strong enough to handle daily door slams but flexible enough to bend with the door without snapping.
Check if it’s safe to use on fire doors.
Many UK homes have heavy fire doors. These can’t be drilled or screwed into, as that could affect their fire safety rating. When shopping for a finger guard, make sure it is suitable for fire doors and clearly labelled as such.
Choose one that’s easy to install and remove.
As a parent, you don’t need another DIY project. The best door hinge finger guards are easy to install without any special tools. They can also be easily removed or replaced when needed.
Stick with properly tested and approved products.
Not every “safety product” on the market is genuinely safe. Some look the part but have never been properly tested. And that is not a risk worth taking when it comes to child safety. Always look for certifications or compliance with recognised safety standards, like the Children’s Charter Door Safety Standard. This will confirm that the product has been tested in real-world conditions and meets strict safety requirements.
Choose a guard that does not look out of place.
While safety comes first, you can still find a door hinge finger protector that looks discreet and modern. Many come in neutral colours or even wood finishes, so they can easily go with your doors and interior style.
Looking for a simple way to keep little fingers out of harm’s way?
Adding a strip of plastic or rubber on a door hinge is a small change, but it can prevent painful finger injuries. If you want a product that is tested and parent-approved, the team at Safety Assured can help you find the right solution for your home. Call us at 01708 855 777 to learn more.
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