Child safe home in Hong Kong

Can you give me some tips on making my home safer for young children?

Apartments in Hong Kong are often a long way from the ground, and therefore window locks should be installed on any windows that could be accessible to a child. We can fit these locks, or alternatively small fasteners to ensure the window cannot open fully.

I would also install lockable latches on any kitchen and bathroom cabinets that contain dangerous materials such as medicines or cleaning chemicals. Never assume that hazardous products are stored up high and out of reach - kids love to climb.

Electrical sockets are magnets for tiny explorative fingers, so attach plug covers to all outlets and switches. Any sharp corners on coffee tables or low units also can be covered with small cushioned bumps.

A home with stairs should have gates at the top and bottom. To prevent squished digits, you might want to install finger guards on hinged doors and locks on sliding or folding doors.

Make sure there are sufficient smoke detectors throughout the home. You might want to invest in a cordless phone, which will allow you to keep an eye on young children while you're chatting. A time when accidents often happen!

Most childproofing products are available from Japan Home Centre stores across Hong Kong, IKEA, or online through HKTVmall and Taobao. For specialist child safety gates and locks, check the baby sections at Mothercare or Aeon stores.

What Are the Most Dangerous Areas in a Hong Kong Apartment for Children?

After 28 years of childproofing homes across Hong Kong, I can tell you that our apartments present some unique risks that you would not encounter in a house in the UK or Australia. The combination of high-rise living, compact spaces, and certain design features common in Hong Kong buildings creates hazards that need specific attention.

Here are the danger zones I always address, in order of priority:

• Windows -- This is the number one safety concern in Hong Kong, and I cannot stress it enough. Under Hong Kong's Buildings Ordinance, window grilles are required on all windows in units above the first floor where children under 16 reside. Many older buildings have windows that open wide enough for a small child to climb through. I fit window restrictors (HK$80-150 per window) that limit how far windows can open, or full window grilles (HK$300-600 per window) for maximum security. Never rely on mosquito screens for safety -- they are not designed to bear weight.
• Balconies and roof terraces -- Many Hong Kong apartments have balconies with railings that have wide gaps between the bars. A child can easily fit through a 12cm gap. I install clear perspex panels or safety mesh to block these gaps. For detailed guidance, see my article on making a balcony child safe.
• Sliding doors and folding doors -- Very common in Hong Kong apartments and a serious finger-trap risk. Sliding door finger guards cost around HK$50-80 each and take minutes to install. For bi-fold doors, I recommend full-length finger guards on both the hinge side and the opening side.
• Kitchen -- Hong Kong kitchens are typically compact, which means children are always within reach of hot surfaces, sharp objects, and cleaning chemicals. Cabinet locks (HK$20-40 each) on every lower cabinet are essential, not just the ones with chemicals in them. An oven door guard (HK$100-150) prevents burns from touching hot glass.
• Bathrooms -- Slippery tile floors are a particular hazard. Non-slip bath mats (HK$50-100) and toilet locks (HK$40-60) are basic essentials. If your bathroom has a glass shower screen, make sure it is tempered safety glass -- I have seen standard glass screens shatter and cause serious injuries.
• Marble and tile floors -- Very common in Hong Kong apartments and extremely slippery when wet. Corner protectors on low furniture (HK$30-60 per pack of 8) are important because a toddler who slips on marble can hit their head on a coffee table edge with real force.

How Much Does Childproofing Cost in Hong Kong?

The good news is that basic childproofing is one of the most affordable home safety investments you can make. Here is a typical cost breakdown for a standard Hong Kong apartment:

• Basic package (essentials only) -- HK$1,500-3,000. This covers socket covers for all outlets (HK$10-15 each), cabinet locks for kitchen and bathroom (HK$20-40 each), corner protectors, and a stair gate if needed (HK$300-600).
• Comprehensive package -- HK$3,000-6,000. Adds window restrictors or grilles on all accessible windows, finger guards on all doors, balcony safety panels, anti-tip straps for tall furniture, and non-slip treatments for bathroom floors.
• Full professional installation -- HK$5,000-10,000 including a home safety assessment, all materials, and professional fitting. This is what I typically do for clients, and it usually takes half a day to a full day depending on the apartment size.

I always recommend investing in quality products rather than the cheapest options. A HK$15 socket cover from a reputable brand like Dreambaby or Safety 1st will stay firmly in place. A HK$3 cover from a market stall might pop out when a curious toddler pulls on it -- defeating the entire purpose.

For improved locks throughout your home, including child-safe door locks and window locks, I carry a range of options and can advise on the best solution for your specific doors and windows. Browse our complete child safety guide for more detailed articles on specific topics.

When Should You Call a Professional?

Many childproofing items can be installed yourself -- socket covers, cabinet locks, and corner protectors are straightforward. However, I recommend professional installation for:

• Window grilles and restrictors -- These need to be securely anchored into the window frame or surrounding wall. A poorly installed window grille is worse than no grille at all, because it gives a false sense of security. In concrete-walled Hong Kong buildings, you need a hammer drill and the right anchors.
• Balcony safety panels -- Perspex or mesh panels must be firmly fixed to withstand a child's weight if they push against them, plus Hong Kong's wind loads during typhoon season.
• Stair gates on non-standard openings -- Many Hong Kong apartments have odd-width doorways and openings. A gate that does not fit properly can come loose, creating an even bigger hazard.
• Anti-tip furniture anchoring -- In older Hong Kong buildings, the walls can be hollow block or soft plaster. Standard wall anchors may not hold, and you need someone who knows how to find a solid fixing point.

I have childproofed hundreds of Hong Kong homes over the years, and I understand the specific challenges of our building types and apartment layouts. I offer a free initial assessment where I walk through your home, identify all the hazards, and give you a clear quote for the work needed.

Last updated: March 2026