Baby proofing help needed!

[Dakiara]

Hi,

Wee One is starting to get to the close to crawling stage (possibly - he's sliding backwards on his front at least...). However, we have an archway and a fireplace, both made of brick to try and make safer somehow before he manages it.

Am at a total loss of what I could use to clad it that would itself be safe for him to chew on etc., as he bites almost everything at the moment; it would need to cover up the brickwork for around a foot and a half height and also pad it a little for if he crawls or toddles into it?

Any ideas? :O)

cushions
bean bag
boxes of toys
lie down on the floor

Am tempted, but he just climbs over me!

It's a tricky one alright - trying to avoid the blocking off with items idea, thanks though, as we would have to cover the whole thing and it would clutter the room amazingly (the bricks are a delightful testament to 80s decor at around 6m along one side) alas.

Hmm, perhaps if I wrap him in bubblewrap...