15 Tips for a Baby- and Toddler-Proof Christmas Tree
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Baby- and Toddler-Proof Christmas Tree: Safe, Fun, and Stylish Ideas
The holidays are a magical time, especially with little ones at home. But when you’ve got a curious baby or an adventurous toddler, keeping your Christmas tree safe from tiny hands (and keeping your baby safe from the tree) can be a challenge. Don’t worry—you can still have a festive and stylish tree while ensuring your child’s safety.
Last year, we decided to go with an artificial tree (list point no. 1), which I find incredibly practical—not just for sustainability reasons, but also for child safety. An artificial tree really won me over. To keep things secure, we attached the tree to the curtain rail with fishing line (list point no. 3) and decorated the lower part only with soft, shatterproof ornaments (list point no. 6). This setup worked perfectly with my 3-year-old toddler last year.
This year, things are a bit trickier. My second son, now 14 months old, is mobile, standing, walking, and exploring everything. This puts both the tree and him at greater risk. To keep him safe, I’m planning to add a barrier made of large cardboard boxes wrapped like presents around the tree (list point no. 2). This way, he can stand near the tree and admire it without being able to grab it.
I’m also considering trying out the idea of alarm bells (list point no. 8) on the tree to alert me if he gets too close. However, I’m not entirely sure if the bells might end up encouraging him instead—after all, they’ll make such pretty sounds! I’ll give it a try this year and see how it works.
So, we’ll go with 1–3 and 6 & 8 from the list below. Take a look to see what could work best for you to make your Christmas tree baby- and toddler-proof this holiday season.
1. Opt for an Artificial Tree
I’ve put this tip in the first place because we have had an artificial tree since last year, and I find it very practical with children. You don’t have to worry about needles on the ground or keeping it watered, which can be hazardous for toddlers. Plus, the tree looks beautiful from the moment you put it up until the season ends. While a good-quality artificial tree isn’t cheap, you can enjoy it for years to come, making the purchase worthwhile in the long term.
6ft Pre-lit Artificial Christmas Tree with Incandescent Warm White Lights
(Available in various sizes.)
6ft Pre-Lit Spruce Artificial Holiday Christmas Tree, 250 Incandescent Lights, 798 Branch Tips, Easy Assembly, Metal Hinges & Foldable Base
2. Wrap Large Boxes as Presents
Here’s a fun and clever hack! Wrap large cardboard boxes as fake presents and place them around the tree. This creates a barrier between your toddler and the tree while letting them play with and explore the "presents." Your toddler can reach the boxes, but the tree stays out of reach and safe.
Large gift boxes are also a great option—less work and easy to fold up and store neatly until next year.
Amazon Basics Cardboard Boxes, 12 Pack, Large, Brown, 20" x 20" x 15"
Off white Matte Wrapping Paper, 3 Rolls, 17 Inches X 32.8 Feet Per roll
32 Pcs Pull Bows for Gift Wrapping, 6 Inch Large Gift Bow
Large gift boxes are also a great option—less work and easy to fold up and store neatly until next year.
Medium Glitter Gift Box with Lids, Ribbon and Tissue
Also available in other colors.
Large Gift Box 12x12x10 Inches, White
Also available in other colors.
Giant Gift Box 28x28x28 Inches, Extra Large White Cardboard Decorative Box with Lid
3. Secure the Tree with Fishing Line
A simple, budget-friendly way to keep your tree stable is by using fishing line or a similar clear string. Simply attach the line to the top of the tree and secure it to a discreet hook in the wall or ceiling. This will prevent the tree from tipping over if your toddler tugs on it. It’s an inexpensive, nearly invisible solution that ensures your tree stays safe and upright without compromising your holiday decor.
Strong Fishing Line Clear, Invisible Hanging Wire, Nylon String
4. Go Mini or Wall-Mounted for Safety
Consider thinking outside the box with a mini tree placed on a table or sideboard or a wall-mounted tree for a modern, baby-proof twist. A small tabletop tree can still be beautifully decorated, and wall-mounted or felt trees are not only trendy but also completely out of reach. Felt trees come with soft, Velcro ornaments, allowing your toddler to play without risk.
National Tree Company Pre-Lit 'Feel Real' Artificial Mini Christmas Tree 3 Feet
Natural Frosted Tree with Star Topper Wooden Christmas Hanging Decoration
Wall Mounted Christmas Tree, Lighted, and 3 Feet Tall
5. Decorate Only the Top Half of the Tree
If you want a full-sized tree but don’t want your toddler playing with the decorations, try the half-and-half method. Decorate the top half with all the fancy ornaments and leave the bottom bare or with unbreakable decorations (see no. 6). This way, your toddler can touch the lower branches safely while your tree still looks festive.
6. Shatterproof and Soft Ornaments for the Win
Make sure all the ornaments within your child’s reach are shatterproof or soft. Look for plush ornaments, felt decorations, or wooden pieces that won’t break. You can even involve your toddler in making some of these baby-safe decorations as a fun holiday activity! Think handmade felt stars, stuffed fabric Santas, or cute pom-pom garlands.
Velvet Christmas Ball Ornaments Burgundy 36pcs Shatterproof
RoseCraft Christmas Ornaments Set, 6.3Inch Plastic Shatterproof Christmas Ball
Christmas Ball Ornaments Champagne 36pcs Shatterproof
Boao 18 Pcs Felt Acorn Ornaments
36 Pieces Christmas Tree Hanging Ornament, Wood
15 Pieces Animal Ornaments, Faux Fur
7. Use Tinsel Alternatives
Tinsel may be shiny, but it’s a potential choking hazard and not toddler-friendly. Replace it with more modern options like:
Fabric or paper garlands (look for modern felt ball garlands or colorful paper chains)
LED string lights in fun shapes
Ribbons and bows for a chic, soft look
These alternatives are safer for little ones and still add a festive touch!
Christmas Pom Pom Garland
Color: Traditional Christmas Red White and Green Colors
(Available in various colors.)
Twinkle Star 100 LED Star String Lights, 33FT Plug in Fairy String Light
Color: Warm White
(Available in various colors.)
24 Pcs Burgundy Velvet Christmas Tree Bows, Vintage Bow (3/8'' Width, 5 * 7 inch)
Color: Burgundy
(Available in various colors.)
8. Keep Bells on the Tree as an Alarm
Bells aren’t just festive—they can also act as a toddler alarm! Hanging small bells on the lower branches of your tree means you’ll hear if your baby or toddler starts to play with it. This can be a fun, yet practical, way to monitor any little adventurers getting too close to the tree!
Shindel 18PCS Bells for Christmas Tree Ornaments
Color: Vintage Bells
9. Create a Baby-Friendly Tree Zone
Instead of completely blocking the tree off, make a fun tree zone where your baby or toddler can safely interact with the decorations. Use a felt or fabric tree mounted at their height and allow them to move and rearrange soft, colorful ornaments. This gives them their own version of the tree to explore, helping to divert their attention away from your main tree.
3ft DIY Lighted Felt Christmas Tree Set Plus Snowman Advent Calendar, Wall Hanging, 33 Ornaments, with String Light
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
10. Invest in a Christmas Tree Fence
Baby gates and fences have come a long way! You can now find sleek, minimalist Christmas tree fences that keep little hands away from the tree while still looking stylish. These can be found in neutral colors or even wood finishes to match your decor. They’re a modern solution for keeping your tree safe while letting your toddler roam freely.
25 Pieces Christmas Tree Thick White Plastic Picket Fence, for Pets, for Kids, 12 Inches
Item Package Quantity: 25
11. Try a Christmas Tree Shelf
If floor space (and baby-proofing space) is an issue, try going vertical with a Christmas tree shelf. It’s a modern and stylish alternative that can be mounted on the wall out of reach, and you can still decorate it with ornaments and lights. This setup is both trendy and totally baby-safe!
Christmas Tree Shape Wood Wall Shelf, Rustic Style Floating Shelves 4 Tier with Hook, Handmade
12. Replace Metal Hooks with Ribbons
Traditional metal hooks can be sharp and dangerous for little hands. Replace them with ribbons or string to attach your ornaments. Choose colorful ribbons that are easy to tie, look stylish, and are harder for toddlers to pull off. This way, your tree is both safe and beautifully decorated.
Christmas Ornament Hangers String, 100 Pcs
Color: Gold
(Available in various colors.)
13. Get Creative with Your Tree Skirt
Traditional tree skirts can be easily grabbed and pulled by a curious toddler. Instead, try a tree collar or basket at the base of your tree. These are sturdier, on-trend options that cover the base and can’t be easily moved. You could even DIY a fun, colorful collar that matches your holiday decor.
Beautiful Christmas Tree Collar - Authentic 28" Hyacinth Tree Ring
Color: Brown
14. Use Remote-Controlled or Smart Lights
Avoid the hazard of your toddler tugging on light cords by using remote-controlled LED lights or connecting your tree lights to a smart plug. You can control the lights from your phone, making it easier to turn them off when your toddler is near. Look for battery-operated lights that eliminate dangling wires and keep things sleek and modern.
Brizled Christmas String Lights, 98.4ft 300 LED Smart Color Changing Christmas Tree Lights with APP/Voice Control, Warm White & Multicolor
Size: 300 LED – WiFi
15. DIY a Sensory-Friendly Tree Area
Create a sensory corner near your Christmas tree with safe holiday-themed toys and textures. This could include a soft felt tree (see no. 9), fabric ornaments they can handle, or even Christmas-themed sensory bins filled with jingle bells, fabric bows, or festive textures. It’s a great way to keep their attention on safe holiday fun.
Pearhead Wooden Christmas Tree Stacking Toy
Anditoy 4 Pack Christmas Wooden Puzzles
KIDS PREFERRED Santa Claus Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer Musical Stuffed Animal
KIDS PREFERRED Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer On The Go Teether Book
GUND Baby Play Soft Collection, My First Gingerbread House 5-Piece Playset with Rattle
Kids Table for Play Study Dining Toys Storage, Sensory
Making your Christmas tree baby- and toddler-safe doesn’t mean sacrificing style or fun. With a few modern tweaks and creative ideas, you can enjoy a beautiful, festive tree that keeps little ones safe. Whether you go for shatterproof ornaments, creative tree alternatives, or baby-friendly zones, you’re all set for a holiday filled with joy and peace of mind.
Happy decorating, and may your holidays be safe, stylish, and magical!