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Expert Picks for January 2026

Best Outlet Covers

Those little plastic caps? A determined toddler pops them in seconds—then they become choking hazards. We compared outlet covers from basic plugs to self-closing plates—finding what actually works on curious fingers.

Last updated: January 28, 2026

Best Overall Comparison All Products User Reviews Buying Guide FAQ

Best Overall Our top recommendation

Best Overall

Jambini

Self-Closing Outlet Covers (6-Pack)

4.6 (23,456 reviews)

The real solution—spring-loaded covers auto-close. No choking hazards, no pieces to lose.

Type

Self-closing plate

Pack

6 covers

Install

Replaces outlet plate

Material

ABS plastic

Pros

✓ Auto-closes when unplugged
✓ No separate pieces to lose
✓ Adult-easy, child-resistant

Cons

✗ More expensive
✗ Installation required
✗ Won't fit all outlets

$20

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Head-to-Head Comparison

Product	Rating	Price	Action
Outlet Plugs (36-Pack) Safety 1st	4.3	$8	View
Self-Closing Outlet Covers (6-Pack) Best Jambini	4.6	$20	View
Power Strip Cover Value Mommy's Helper	4.4	$12	View
Outlet Box Cover (2-Pack) Bates Choice	4.3	$15	View
Sliding Outlet Covers (12-Pack) Wappa Baby	4.5	$18	View

* Prices may vary. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

All Recommended Products

Budget Pick

Safety 1st

Outlet Plugs (36-Pack)

4.3 (45,678 reviews)

The classic solution—cheap and everywhere. Just know determined toddlers WILL figure them out.

Type

Plug caps

Pack

36 units

Material

Plastic

Fit

Standard US outlets

Pros

✓ Cheapest option
✓ Easy bulk coverage
✓ Simple to use

Cons

✗ Toddlers can remove them
✗ Choking hazard when loose
✗ Must remove to use outlet

View on Amazon

Best Overall

Jambini

Self-Closing Outlet Covers (6-Pack)

4.6 (23,456 reviews)

The real solution—spring-loaded covers auto-close. No choking hazards, no pieces to lose.

Type

Self-closing plate

Pack

6 covers

Install

Replaces outlet plate

Material

ABS plastic

Pros

✓ Auto-closes when unplugged
✓ No separate pieces to lose
✓ Adult-easy, child-resistant

Cons

✗ More expensive
✗ Installation required
✗ Won't fit all outlets

$20

View on Amazon

Best Value

Mommy's Helper

Power Strip Cover

4.4 (12,345 reviews)

For the power strip chaos behind furniture—covers the whole thing, cords and all.

Type

Power strip enclosure

Size

Fits most strips

Material

Plastic

Access

Adult-unlockable

Pros

✓ Covers entire power strip
✓ Keeps cords contained
✓ Prevents unplugging

Cons

✗ Bulky
✗ Doesn't work on all strips
✗ Cord routing limited

$12

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Bates Choice

Outlet Box Cover (2-Pack)

4.3 (8,765 reviews)

Full enclosure when you need outlets protected but still in use—covers the outlet and whatever's plugged into it.

Type

Full outlet enclosure

Pack

2 boxes

Size

Double outlet

Material

ABS plastic

Pros

✓ Covers outlet + plugged items
✓ Double outlet size
✓ Sturdy plastic

Cons

✗ Large and visible
✗ Can be warm with heavy loads
✗ Limited cord space

$15

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Premium Pick

Wappa Baby

Sliding Outlet Covers (12-Pack)

4.5 (15,678 reviews)

Sleek sliding mechanism—slides open for access, slides closed when not in use. No loose pieces.

Type

Sliding cover plate

Pack

12 covers

Install

Replace existing plate

Action

Slide to access

Pros

✓ Slide-open design
✓ Easy for adults
✓ Replaces faceplate

Cons

✗ Installation required
✗ Determined kids can learn
✗ Larger than standard plates

$18

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Buying Guide: How to Choose Outlet Covers

Outlet Covers: Because Little Fingers Go Everywhere

Electrical outlets are at perfect toddler eye level. The fascination with those mysterious holes is real—and dangerous.

Types of Outlet Protection

Plug caps:
Cheap and simple
- Insert into unused outlets
- Toddlers can (and do) remove them
- Then they become choking hazards

Sliding covers:
- Replace the faceplate
- Slide to access outlets
- No loose pieces
- Kids eventually learn the mechanism

Self-closing covers:
- Spring-loaded automatic closure
- Best passive protection
- Replace faceplate
- Most child-resistant

Outlet boxes:
- Cover the entire outlet + plugs
- Prevent unplugging
- Best for always-used outlets
- Bulky but secure

### Real Talk About Plug Caps
Every parent starts with the cheap plastic caps. Most toddlers figure them out by 18-24 months. Then you're chasing loose caps—which are choking hazards—around the house. Self-closing covers cost more but save the hassle.

### Prioritize High-Risk Outlets
- Outlets at child height (most of them)
- Bathroom outlets (water + electricity)
- Kitchen outlets (often used = often exposed)
- Behind accessible furniture
- Power strips on the floor

Frequently Asked Questions About Outlet Covers

Are outlet caps choking hazards?

Yes—standard plug caps are small enough to choke on and often end up in mouths once removed. This is why self-closing or sliding covers that have no removable pieces are recommended.

Do I really need outlet covers?

Modern outlets have tamper-resistant (TR) receptacles that require simultaneous pressure on both slots. If your home has TR outlets (post-2008 code), the risk is lower. Covers add extra protection regardless.

What about outlets behind furniture?

Outlets behind heavy furniture are naturally protected by inaccessibility. But toddlers are determined—if they can squeeze back there, they will. Plug unused outlets or use power strip covers.

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