Childproof locks keep curious toddlers out of cabinets containing chemicals, sharp tools, and choking hazards. Common types: magnetic locks (mount inside cabinet, key magnet unlocks), strap locks (visible exterior, simpler), and pressure-mounted (no drilling). Each works for different cabinet types — match to your needs.
This guide covers the most common types: magnetic locks for upper cabinets and strap locks for under-sink cabinets.
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Time
- 15-30 min per cabinet
- Steps
- 8
- Tools
- 3, listed below
- Materials
- 4, listed below
Before you start
Three things to settle:
1. Match lock type to cabinet style. Frameless cabinets (modern style): magnetic or strap. Face frame cabinets (older style): magnetic or hidden lock. Drawers: drawer locks (different mechanism). Each cabinet type has compatible locks.
2. Permanent vs removable. Magnetic locks (drilled in): permanent until removed. Strap locks (adhesive): removable but leave residue. Pressure-mounted: removable, no damage. Match to whether childproofing is temporary or long-term.
3. Don't lock everything. Common-sense priorities: chemicals (under sink, cleaners), sharp items (knife drawers), small choking hazards (small toys, pills). Don't lock food cabinets — frustrating for daily use without much safety benefit.
What you'll need
Tools
- Drill with bits and driver
- Tape measure
- Pencil
Materials
- Magnetic locks (Safety 1st or similar) OR
- Strap locks (Munchkin or similar) OR
- Drawer locks (specific to drawers)
- Cleaning solution (for adhesive strap install)
Magnetic locks are invisible until needed
Magnetic locks mount inside the cabinet, hidden from view.
Key magnet unlocks from outside.
Cabinet looks normal but is locked.
Premium childproofing solution; worth the install effort.
Step-by-step instructions
Identify cabinets needing locks
Under-sink cabinets (cleaners).
Cabinets with knives or sharp items.
Cabinets with small breakables.
Cabinets with prescription medications.
Skip food cabinets and toy storage (used daily by kids and adults).
Magnetic lock install: position lock inside cabinet
Lock body inside cabinet, mounted to cabinet frame.
Strike plate on inside of door.
Both must align when door closes.
Pre-drill mounting holes.
Drive screws.
Magnetic lock: test with key magnet
Hold key magnet against outside of cabinet door at lock location.
Open door — should release.
Without key magnet: door doesn't open.
Adjust alignment if door doesn't open with key.
Strap lock install: attach to door and frame
Strap loops between cabinet frame and door.
One end mounted on inside of door (with adhesive or screws).
Other end on cabinet frame.
Length adjusted so door opens partially but not fully.
Drawer lock install (different mechanism)
Drawer locks hook into the drawer's underside or rail.
Lever release on outside of drawer.
Specific products for drawers (different from cabinet door locks).
Mount per manufacturer.
Test all locks
Verify each cabinet locks securely.
Verify they unlock with key (magnetic) or release (strap).
Test from various angles — kids find ways.
Adjust if needed
Magnetic locks: alignment of lock and strike critical.
Strap locks: tightness of strap can be adjusted.
If lock doesn't engage: re-position parts.
Train family on key location
All adults need to know where the key magnet is stored.
Common: on top of fridge, by phone, in drawer.
Without the key, locked cabinets are inaccessible.
Common mistakes that cost you
- Wrong lock for cabinet style. Doesn't fit. Match lock to face-frame vs frameless.
- Adhesive on dirty surface. Lock falls off. Clean surface first.
- Lock not aligned with strike. Door doesn't lock or release properly. Verify alignment in dry-fit.
- All cabinets locked. Frustrating; family stops using them. Lock dangerous content only.
- Hidden key magnet too well. Adults can't open cabinets. Reasonable storage spot.
Frequently asked questions
When should I install childproof locks?
Crawling stage (6-9 months): toddlers reach lower cabinets.
Climbing stage (18-24 months): can reach uppers.
Pre-emptive install at 6-9 months covers all stages.
Remove when oldest child is 4+.
How easy are magnetic locks for adults?
Daily use: open cabinet, hold magnet against door, open. Adds 5 seconds.
Once you have the routine: very easy.
Visitors without instruction: confusing — they can't open anything.
What about appliances?
Stove knob covers: stop kids from turning on burners.
Oven lock: prevents the oven door from opening.
Toilet lid lock: small kids and toilets don't mix.
Address each based on family needs.
Which cabinets should have childproof locks?
Put childproof locks on cabinets holding chemicals, sharp items, small choking hazards and prescription medications: the under-sink cabinet with cleaners, knife drawers, and cabinets with small breakables. Skip food cabinets and toy storage, which kids and adults use every day. Locking every cabinet is frustrating, and families stop using the locks. Keep the magnetic key in a sensible spot every adult knows, such as on top of the fridge.
Which type of childproof lock suits my cabinets?
Match the childproof lock to the cabinet style and how long it needs to stay. Frameless cabinets take magnetic or strap locks, face frame cabinets take magnetic or hidden locks, and drawers need drawer locks with a different mechanism.
Magnetic locks are screwed in and stay until removed, strap locks use adhesive and leave residue, and pressure-mounted locks come off with no damage. Clean the surface before fitting any adhesive lock.
When to call us instead
Childproofing is part of family-home renovations. Our team can include child safety hardware in any project.
Book a free 60-minute site visit →Dream Touch Renovations · 33 Roydon Pl, Suite 210, Ottawa, ON K2E 1A3 · (613) 862-4555
Renovating homes across Ottawa, Kanata, Nepean, Barrhaven, Orléans and Stittsville.
Related Ottawa services
If you're renovating and want childproofing built in, our team coordinates safety hardware. Book a free 60-minute consultation.
Official references
- Hand Tools: General Hand Tool Operation, Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety