An Affordable Pool Noodle Hack Makes Your Fireplace Safer From Falls

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Having a fireplace makes a long winter seem not so dreary — but it's also a feature in your home that can present a number of safety issues. On top of house fires being a serious concern, the structure of a fireplace itself can be dangerous, especially if you have little ones running around. It doesn't even have to be lit to pose a hazard. Many fireplace hearths are made of brick or stone, and come with sharp corners and edges that could easily injure a child if they were to accidentally fall. Frankly, a person of any age would be at risk. One DIY hack from TikTok user byefelisa_ tries to alleviate this issue by using pool noodles to cover sections of the hearth to make it safer.

There are lots of ways to use a pool noodle in the winter, even when it comes to your fireplace. Because of their cushy material and long cylinder shape, they're a popular tool for creative babyproofing projects. Parents often cover the edges of tables, shelves, and beds with them to prevent their children from getting hurt. The same idea works for the area around a fireplace. One reason people turn to pool noodles for babyproofing is that they're a budget-friendly solution. They're typically inexpensive and might be stored away in your garage already. For this hack, don't worry about the noodles' colors since you'll be covering them anyway.

Fireplaces can be different, so measure a pool noodle against yours to determine approximately how many you'll need to cover the hearth's edges. Note that you'll be using vertically halved noodles. Start by slicing one of your pool noodles in half. Then attach it across the hearth's ledge with an adhesive that will be safe on the material of your fireplace, such as this Velcro Mounting Tape on Amazon. Repeat this on all of the edges, covering the sharp corners, too. Avoid letting the noodles touch the actual firebox — only the surrounding area. It's almost like you're adding bumpers.

If the edges of your hearth are thin, you may be able to go about the DIY a little differently. Slice one side of a pool noodle vertically, then wedge it on. Cut it into pieces as needed to make it fit. After all of the edges are lined with pool noodles, you can make the area even safer by covering it with a thick blanket or two. This will provide a layer of cushion, making it a cozy addition to any living room. It'll help hide the pool noodles as well.

Turn the ledge into a comfy seat that can be enjoyed even when it's not cold outside. Best of all, it'll give peace of mind that the hearth will be less of a safety hazard when it comes to falls. However, make sure blankets and any soft materials stay away from the firebox at all times. In addition to safety precautions, don't forget that there are other things to keep in mind before adding a fireplace to your home.