Ask the designer

Interior designer Deborah Ruddy of Chic Unique, Ratoath, Co Meath, www.chicunique.ie answers your design dilemmas. Email: [e-mail]

Q We’re expecting our first baby at Christmas — do you have any baby-proofing ideas for our home?

A. While we’re all aware of basic child-safety precautions like stair-guards, socket covers and cupboard latches, here are some less-obvious ways to make your home safer for the new arrival. Consider using plug-in night lights to guide your way up and down the stairs at night time without waking the baby. Cable tidies for electrical items like the TV will help prevent your child from pulling it down on themselves when they’re old enough to toddle. For more helpful ideas, take a look at www.babycentre.com.