As soon as your little one becomes mobile, you will quickly realize the need for baby gates. Children are professionals at getting into places and things that can be dangerous. In order to keep them safe, you will probably rely on a few gates placed in strategic areas of your home.
There are a wide variety of gates on the market. Baby gates come in different sizes, shapes, materials, and mounting styles. The best baby gates for you are the ones that fit your space and your needs.
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Types of Baby Gates
There are two common types of baby gates, hardware-mounted and pressure-mounted. Each one has its advantages and disadvantages. Choosing the right style for you depends on where you are trying to install the gate and how comfortable you are with the gates’ permanency.
Hardware-Mounted Baby Gates
Hardware mounted baby gates are as the name describes, they use hardware to keep them in place. They use screws and brackets to affix them to a wall, post, or other parts of your home.
Hardware-mounted baby gates are usually more secure than other types of gates. When installed correctly you can be confident that they won’t slip or come loose. It will be nearly impossible for your child to get past them if they are properly secured. They can be ideal for areas where safety is the highest priority, like at the top of staircases.
However, you must make holes in whatever part of your home the baby gate is being installed in. You will have to drill holes and screw in the hardware to set up the gate. Sometimes, this is not possible, such as the case with wrought iron stair balusters. Other Times, you may not want to permanently damage your wall or staircase.
Additionally, these gates are pretty permanent. You can not easily move them from one area to another and they aren’t considered travel friendly. Still, these gates are a very sturdy choice.
Pressure-Mounted Baby Gates
As you may have guessed, pressure-mounted baby gates are installed using pressure. These gates usually have pins and rubber stoppers that can be adjusted to apply force to a wall or a doorway. This is what holds the gate in place.
Pressure-mounted gates don’t require screws, drilling, or hardware. They are easily wedged into place and can be adjusted to fit different spaces. It is simple to move your gate from one area to another.
However, these gates can become loose over time. Additionally, if you don’t get the pressure points tight enough or they become askew the gate may fall out of place. For this reason, they are not recommended for some areas of your home.
Different Styles of Baby Gates
In addition to the two different types, pressure-mounted and hardware-mounted, there are a few different styles of baby gates. The styles have less to do with safety and more to do with preference.
Swing-Through
A swing-through baby gate has a hinge that allows the gate to swing. Either the entire gate can swing or it can have a walk-through door that swings. There are certain safety precautions to take when using a swing-through gate at the top of the stairs, so be sure to read your manual.
Step-Over
A step-over baby gate does not have a door to walk through, nor does it swing to provide an opening. The gate stays in place and the adult must step over the gate. Usually, these gates are lower so that adults can easily get over them.
Stair Gates
There are different kinds of gates made specifically for stairs. The most common has three panels instead of your standard flat gate. It consists of two short sides and then a longer side that acts as the gate barrier. This allows it to be square and sturdy and used with a variety of odd stairway shapes. Most top-of-stair gates are hardware mounted for maximum safety.
Best Baby Gates For Stairs and Doorways
If you have a fairly standard opening, one of these awesome gates will likely suit your needs. You can choose from wood, metal, or plastic as well as various colors and styles.
Regalo Easy Step Baby Gate
The Regalo Easy Step expands up to 38.5 inches wide, making it suitable for a variety of doorways. It uses pressure-mounting, so you won’t damage your walls. For extra security, you have the option of using the included wall cups and mounting hardware. Its easy-walk-through-door can be opened and closed using only one hand which is very convenient when you are carrying your child.
- EXTRA WIDE: Expands to fit openings between 29-34 and 35-38.5 inches wide. Stands 30 inches tall. Please be sure measure your opening prior to purchase to ensure proper fit. Note: This gate will not fit an opening between 34-35 inch.
- EASY TO USE AND SET UP: Pressure mount design that is quick to set up. Please note, before installation there will be a gap between the gate latch and the frame which is not a defect and it is not bent. This gap will be eliminated once installed.
- ADJUSTABLE: Includes a 6-inch wide extension kit and 4 pressure mount spindle rods. Perfect for doorway, hallway and bottom of stair use. Gate can quickly be removed out of the opening for easy storage. Additional extensions sold separately.Wipes clean.Do not use abrasive cleaners or bleach
Regalo Easy Fit Plastic Adjustable Extra Wide Baby Gate
If you are looking for a super portable gate, consider the Regalo Easy Fit Plastic Adjustable Extra Wide Baby Gate. This lightweight plastic gate is effortless to install in doorways or at the bottom of the stairs. Optional mounting hardware lets you achieve a secure fit. Accommodating spaces up to 42 inches wide, you can confidently take it anywhere knowing it will fit most doorways and stairways.
- EXTRA WIDE: Expands to stairways and openings between 28-42 inches wide. Stands 23 inches tall
- ADJUSTABLE: Perfect for doorway, hallway and bottom of stair use. Gate can quickly be removed out of the opening for easy storage. Patented easy fit system, quick and easy
- DURABLE AND CONVENIENT: The all steel design locking system is durable and convenient. Wipes clean.Do not use abrasive cleaners or bleach
Regalo Easy Open
The Regalo Easy Open is a prime choice for homes with extra-wide openings. It can expand up to an impressive 47 inches. This gate’s all-steel design makes it quite sturdy and safe. A painless walk-through door saves you from having to step over the gate each time you need to cross it. Should you need to increase its size, you can purchase additional sections to make it even wider.
- EXTRA WIDE: Expands to fit openings between 29-38 and 42-47 inches wide. Stands 30 inches tall. Please be sure measure your opening prior to purchase to ensure proper fit
- EASY TO USE AND SET UP: Pressure mount design that is quick to set up. Please note, before installation there will be a gap between the gate latch and the frame which is not a defect and it is not bent. This gap will be eliminated once installed.
- ADJUSTABLE: Includes a 4-inch wide and 12-inch wide extension kit and 4 pressure mount spindle rods. Perfect for doorway, hallway and bottom of stair use. Gate can quickly be removed out of the opening for easy storage. Additional extensions sold separately.
Summer Multi-Use Decorative Extra Tall Walk-Thru Baby Gate
Don’t want to compromise your decor style with a baby gate? Check out the Summer Multi-Use Decorative Extra Tall Walk-Thru Baby Gate. This gorgeous gate is far from an eyesore with its bronzed finish and beautiful arch design. It includes a simple door that has an auto-close feature and a hold-open feature for the utmost convenience. Offering 36 inches of height, this extra tall gate will keep pets from jumping over and into your child’s space.
- ACCOMODATES MOST OPENINGS: The Summer Multi-Use Decorative Extra Tall Walk-Thru Gate for Baby can be used between doorways and stairways. The 36” tall baby gate fits openings up 28.5” to 48” wide.
- EASY INSTALLATION: Easily install this baby gate on stairways with the included kit, or by using the no drill doorway mount for in-between doorways. Tools are required for hardware mounting.Surface-clean with a damp cloth or sponge, using mild detergent and warm water
- AUTO-CLOSE FEATURE: For added hands-free convenience, this safety gate is equipped with an auto-close feature that gently closes the door behind you and a hold-open feature that keeps the door open.
Toddleroo by North States 47.85″ Wide Easy Swing & Lock Baby Gate
If your stairway or opening presents you with a challenge, you may need the Toddleroo by North States 47.85″ Wide Easy Swing & Lock Baby Gate. As a swing gate, your walls or banisters don’t have to line up perfectly for this gate to work. It can be installed on a slight angle with the included hardware, making it ideal for awkward spaces. Its appealing matte bronze finish suits most home decor and finishings.
- NEW NAME - SAME GREAT BRAND YOU TRUST: Worry-free safety! The Easy Swing & Lock Baby Gate is built from long lasting, kid-tough heavy-duty metal with vertical bars that are difficult to climb, keeping your child safe and secure
- SAFE & SECURE: Keep your loved ones safe with this hardware mounted gate that's perfect for large openings and stairways; There is no threshold so there is no risk of tripping and the gate will not swing over stairs. Bars are 2 3/4" apart
- STYLISH AND DEPENDABLE: The matte bronze finish and durable steel construction makes this gate durable and easy to use; The simple and elegant design will complement any home decor
Retractable Baby Gate, Momcozy Mesh Safety Gate
The best space-saving option is the Retractable Baby Gate, Momcozy Mesh Safety Gate. Great for grandparents or places where your baby infrequently visits, this gate can completely retract when not in use. This saves you space yet provides you with quick security whenever the baby comes to visit. Unfurling up to 55 inches, it can fit a variety of spaces both inside and outside your home.
- Retractable Design-Retractable baby gate extends up to 55" wide and is 33.7" tall, designed to adjust to any door/stair width up to 55 inches. Mesh can be completely retracted away when not in use, saving you space.
- Lock Feature-There is a locking mechanism at the top of the dog gate that turns to lock and unlock, when you’re busy something, effectively blocking the baby and small & medium dogs to ensuring them safety, providing a safe and closed off environment to play.
- Moveable-Comes with 2 sets of Installation hardware, pet gate can be easily moved and de-attached from the gate mount hardware, to stow away or move to another location where another set of hardware installed. Can be used indoor and outdoor.
Summer Deluxe Stairway Simple to Secure Wood Gate
Wanting a more rustic feel? The Summer Deluxe Stairway Simple to Secure Wood Gate has serious farmhouse charm. The included precision fit template helps you achieve the safest and most secure install the first time. With a simple press of your thumb, you can release the swing door, allowing you to pass through the gate. Its attractive oak finish will fit right in with your home’s furnishings.
- ACCOMODATES MOST OPENINGS – The Summer Deluxe Stairway Simple to Secure Wood Gate for Baby can be used between hallways, doorways, and stairways. The 32” tall baby gate fits openings up 30” to 48” wide
- EASY INSTALLATION: Easily install this baby gate in between hallways, doorways, and stairways with the included kit. Use the unique Precision Fit Template to ensure correct, easy installation – No measuring required. Tools are required for hardware mounting. Self-Locking: No
- ONE HAND RELEASE: This hardware mounted baby gate has a unique comfort grip handle for easy one-handed release. Wipe surface with a damp cloth or sponge, using mild detergent and warm water to clean. Towel dry
Summer Decorative Wood & Metal Safety Baby Gate
The Summer Decorative Wood & Metal Safety Baby Gate features both wood and metal for a trendy, modern look. With 3 long panels, this gate can widen up to an astonishing 60 inches. Pressure mounting keeps your walls free of holes and marks. A dual-direction swinging door lets you pass easily through the gate. You can have peace of mind that your little one is contained in any room of your home.
Munchkin Easy Close XL Pressure Mounted Baby Gate
The double locking system of the Munchkin Easy Close XL Pressure Mounted Baby Gate makes it difficult for active children to figure out how to escape. A third locking system can be used that limits which direction the door can swing. This hardware or pressure-mounted gate is made of sturdy metal and offers parents a secure option for keeping their children out of danger.
- Measures: 36 inches tall and 29.5 inches 51.6 inches wide with the included (1) 2.75 inches , (1) 5.5 inches and (1) 11 inches extensions (fits up to 54 inches wide with if additional extensions are purchased). Measure your desired opening prior to purchase to ensure a proper fit
- Pressure fit baby gate with hardware included for added safety.This gate ships with a gap between the gate frame and the handles. This is not a defect.The gap will close once gate is properly installed NEVER use a gate to keep child away from pool
- Door locks easily with a simple push to close feature
Safety 1st Décor Easy Install Tall & Wide Baby Gate
The appealing Safety 1st Décor Easy Install Tall & Wide Baby Gate has a beautiful arched pattern and a stylish finish. It not only acts as a barrier for openings up to 47 inches wide but also offers added height protection. A swinging door is painless for parents to operate but prevents children from unlocking the gate. It includes both a pressure mounting system and hardware so you can customize it to fit your needs.
- Easy to open with one hand by parents but difficult for children, this Safety 1st gate is designed to provide additional height protection and is great for homes with babies and pets
- Adjust the gate to fit wide doorways and openings ranging from 29 to 47 inches wide. Pressure-mounted installation requires no tools, drilling, or hardware and allows for quick and easy setup in doors or pass-through areas
- The SecureTech pressure indicator tells you at a glance when the gate's pressure needs adjusting for extra safety
Best Baby Gates for Wide-Range and Irregular Spaces
Irregular spaces, expansive openings, and staircases can be awkward. Consider these gates if you are having a difficult time finding a suitable gate for a specific area of your home. Commonly made of only metal or plastic, there are still a variety of finishes and styles to choose from.
Regalo 192-Inch Super Wide Adjustable Baby Gate and Play Yard
The Regalo 192-Inch Super Wide Adjustable Baby Gate and Play Yard is super customizable. It can cordon off a space up to 192 inches wide. At 28 inches tall it will prevent children or pets from hopping over. Each panel can be adjusted to accommodate tricky angles while four wall mounts let you secure the gate nearly anywhere. You could even connect each end of the gate and make your own play yard either inside or outside.
- SUPERWIDE: Fits opens up to 192 inches wide and stands 28 inches tall
- 2-IN-1: Can convert from a super-wide gate to an 8-panel play yard. No tools require, quick and easy. Includes 4 pack of wall mounts
- CONFIGURABLE: Each panel can be adjusted to fit almost any opening. Great for wide spaces, angled openings, hallway, doorway, bottom of stairs or barrier. Folds flat for storage.Wipes clean
Toddleroo by North States Superyard
Looking for a lightweight option? The Toddleroo by North States Superyard is made of six connecting plastic panels. It is both durable and very light, making it convenient to move wherever you need it. Each panel can attach to another panel yet still rotate individually. This allows you to create one long barrier, extending up to 201 inches, or make your own play yard.
- NEW NAME - SAME GREAT BRAND YOU TRUST: Designed for both indoor and outdoor use, the Toddleroo by North States Superyard with Wall Mount is an excellent solution for creating a safe play area for your child. Plus, the convenient Folding ABC Play Mat (sold separately) works great with this play yard. It provides extra comfort and sensory stimulation during tummy time or any time!
- FREESTANDING PLAY YARD OR EXTRA LONG BARRIER: Enjoy the best of both worlds with the 6-Panel Superyard with Wall Mount Kit. A perfect solution for homes with open floor plans or large spaces to block off. Fits openings from 38.5" to over 16'. Complete with wall hinges, screws and mounting connectors.
- SIMPLE HARDWARE MOUNT: The included wall mounts secure the panels from wall to wall and fit over crown molding with ease. Use 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 panels when set up as an extra wide baby gate. Always mount into solid materials such as wood or metal.
Regalo Plastic 192-Inch Super Wide Adjustable Baby Gate and Play Yard
The Regalo Plastic 192-Inch Super Wide Adjustable Baby Gate and Play Yard is another portable option. Made of sturdy plastic and containing six panels that together expand 192 inches. Four wall mounts let you create a secure barricade or you can attach the pieces together to form your own safe circle. No tools are required when assembling it as a play yard, making it ideal for travel. Should you need to store it away, it folds up completely flat to save space. In modern grey this gate is sure to fit right in with most decor.
- SUPERWIDE: Fits opens up to 192 inches wide and stands 26 inches tall
- 2-IN-1: Can convert from a super wide gate to an 6-panel play yard. No tools require, quick and easy
- CONFIGURABLE: Each panel can be adjusted to fit almost any opening. Great for wide spaces, angled openings, hallway, doorway or bottom of stairs. Folds flat for storage
Regalo 76 Inch Super Wide Configurable Baby Gate
A metal gate, the Regalo 76 Inch Super Wide Configurable Baby Gate can still cover a large area but gives parents extra confidence in its durability. It has three super wide panels, two of which can be wall-mounted. The panels can be adjusted to fit a variety of different angles and openings. The third panel has a convenient swinging door that can be operated single-handedly. If you need to take the baby gate down, just lift it out of the wall cups and fold it accordion style.
- SUPERWIDE: Includes 3 - 24-inch wide configurable panels. Can fit openings from 28-76 inches wide. Stands 31 inches tall. Wall mounting brackets add 2” to each side, 4” total
- EASY TO USE: Designed with a walk-through door with safety locking feature.Wipes clean
- CONFIGURABLE: Each panel can be adjusted to fit almost any opening. Great for wide spaces, angled openings, hallway, doorway or bottom of stairs. Folds flat for storage
Toddleroo by North States 72” wide Deluxe Décor Baby Gate
Finally, the Toddleroo by North States 72” wide Deluxe Décor Baby Gate offers a hint of style with its decorative features. Its gorgeous matte bronze finish won’t detract from the beauty of your home while its heavy-duty construction keeps your child from any dangers. It has a smooth swinging door that won’t scratch whatever surface you install the gate over. A one-handed operating door complete with a triple locking system gives you superior security.
- NEW NAME - SAME GREAT BRAND YOU TRUST: The Toddleroo by North States 3-in-1 Extra Wide Wood Superyard is versatile and reliable - acting as a portable playpen, a baby gate or a safety barrier. Works on carpet, tile, hardwood floors, etc. without scratching
- SAFE & SECURE: Keep your loved ones safe with this hardware mounted gate that's perfect for extra-wide openings. Mounts to straight and angled walls and can be used around fireplaces. Bars are 2” apart
- STYLISH AND DEPENDABLE: The exclusive matte bronze finish will complement any home decor while its heavy-duty metal construction is built to last!
Things to Consider Before Buying a Baby Gate
Picking the best baby gate for your home depends on many different things. Here are a few considerations to keep in mind when you are shopping for the best baby gate.
Location
Where you need to put the gate is perhaps the most important. This can help you determine the best type and style of gate. For example, hardware-mounted gates are recommended as the only type that should be used at the top of the stairs. You will want to select the safest and most convenient gate for your location.
Size
You will want to be sure that you measure and measure again before choosing a gate. You will need to note the width, or how wide the opening of your space is, and the height. If you are placing a gate between banisters or half-walls, be sure your gate isn’t taller than them. If you have an extra-wide space, select an extra-wide gate.
Material
There are metal gates and wooden gates. What’s more is there are also different colors and finishes. You can opt for a gate that suits your home’s décor, this will help it blend in and be less obvious in your room. Also, consider what is the easiest to operate. Is a metal gate too heavy? Does a wood gate not slide open and shut as smoothly?
Opening and Closing Options
If you are putting your gate in a high-traffic area, you will want to make sure that it is easy to get through. Gates with a door are often the most convenient when it comes to opening and closing. There are a variety of locking mechanisms as well. Some allow one-handed operation while others do not.
Design
You can find gates made in everything from farmhouse style to modern art deco. Select the design and style that best matches the character of your home. You don’t want your gate to stand out or be an eyesore in your room.
Mounting Options
It is important to know exactly how you want to mount the gate. If you don’t want to drill holes or use screws, you need a pressure-mounted gate. If you’re putting a gate at the top of the stairs you will need a hardware-mounted gate. Also, double-check that the hardware can be used with whatever material you are securing it to.
Recall Notices
Don’t forget to do a little research into recall notices. This is especially true if you are buying the gate second-hand. Making sure there are no recalls is very important to your little one’s safety.
Benefits of having a Baby Gate
Baby gates are awesome tools for parents. They can give you peace of mind while protecting your child.
Safety
Perhaps the biggest benefit is safety. Baby gates keep your child contained and prevent them from accessing areas that could be dangerous.
Peace of Mind
Instead of constantly following your child around, or worrying every minute about what they are up to, baby gates provide safety barriers. You won’t have to worry about your little one getting outside or accessing the stairs while you run to the bathroom.
Designated Play Area
If you don’t want your child to play where there are dangers, baby gates can create a designated safe zone. This can also help prevent older children from bringing choking hazards into the baby’s area.
Separation of Pets and Children
Baby gates can also be useful in keeping pets and children separated. While we love our furry friends, babies may not yet understand how to treat them respectfully. The use of a gate can keep both your baby and your fur baby safe and happy.
Final Thoughts
Baby gates are a lifesaver for parents, and oftentimes a literal lifesaver for children. They can keep your little one safe and happy and provide you with valuable peace of mind. There is a wide selection of gates on the market today, ensuring that all parents can find one suitable for each area of their home.