Both its big, warm, and noisy appliances and its colorful detergent boxes attract small children to the laundry room. Detergents, starches, bleaches, cleansers, fabric softeners, and stain removers can all be toxic, so don't leave any of these supplies sitting out on the washer or dryer. Be sure to wipe up any residue after use and dispose of empty containers in the outdoor trash.

For maximum safety, unplug the washer and dryer when not in use, always keep the washer lid and dryer door closed, and store mops, brooms, and other cleaning equipment in closed, safety-latched closets.

Iron with care. Wait until your child is napping, happy in a playpen, or otherwise unlikely to disturb you. All it takes is one small bump on the ironing board to send the heavy, hot iron tumbling down. A sturdy, built-in ironing board with a childproof latch on its cabinet door is the safest option.

Never leave the iron sitting on top of the ironing board or within a child's reach, and never leave an iron plugged in. A better bet is a cordless iron that shuts off automatically should you forget to turn it off.

Put a lock on the laundry-room door or use doorknob sleeves. For times when your child keeps you company, or if the area does not have a door, a playpen is key to keeping baby safe.

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