When your little munchkin begins crawling, you will need a baby safety gate to prevent accidents and injuries. So, here’s our list of the best baby safety gates to help you choose. When your child is on the move, it’s essential that you babyproof your home to ensure maximum safety for your baby. The riskiest places that your baby can access are bathrooms, staircases, kitchens, and garages. So it’s’ best to make use of a good baby safety gate and prevent your tiny tots from entering these spaces. A baby gate prevents your crawling munchkin from entering a specific area. Be it a bedroom or a bathroom, it sections off a space and prevents your baby from accessing it. A baby safety gate can be an effective way to prevent unwarranted accidents that can put your baby in harm’s way. With various features and designs, choosing the right one for your home can be challenging. So, scroll below as we list detailed descriptions of various baby safety gates to help you pick one suitable for you. Now you can be stress-free and get your work done around the house while your baby stays safe

Baby Gate Safety Tips

It is always recommended that you buy a baby gate that follows JPMA standards. According to the standards, a baby gate should have the following requirements:

To bar the toddlers from reaching the top of the gate, it must be 22 inches or higher. The space between the vertical rails should not be more than 3 inches to prevent the baby from sticking their head out. To prevent any climbing, there shouldn’t be any openings that are larger than your child’s foot. The gap between the bottom of the baby gate and the floor should be so small that there’s no chance of your child’s head getting stuck.

To ensure that you are buying the right product, always measure your rooms and staircases. Also, be aware that there are mainly 2 different kinds of baby gates.

Types Of Baby Gates

Hardware mounted gates

These are fixed to your walls with screws. They have a bracket that holds the gate in place. These are most secure to be put on a staircase. However, make sure that you don’t screw the gate on a wall that has only plaster as that wouldn’t be a solid barrier.

Pressure mounted gates

These types of gates make use of expandable springs that lock the gate when pressed between the walls. They come with rubber pieces that help to hold the gate in its place. They are more suited for leveled areas like doorways and room entrances. Now that you are aware of the importance of baby gates, let us take you to the best baby gates in the offering, so that you can make the best choice.

17 Best Baby Safety Gates

1. Best Easy-To-Set-Up: Regalo Easy Open Baby Gate

When it comes to your baby, there shouldn’t be any compromise, which this product guarantees. Suitable for babies from 6 months to 24 months, this all-metal baby safety gate is made of steel, and the best feature is that it is mountable both ways- as a pressure mount and hardware mount. The walk-through gate has the option of working around the opening width so that you can have more comfort and ease of passage. What more, it meets the regulation standards of both JPMA and ASTM. So you can be stress-free and choose any corner or staircase of your house to install this sturdy baby gate. To find out more about this product, check this video review out. Pros

Easy to set up Adjustable width Safe multi-lock features Easy storage

Cons

The width listing in terms of opening may be ambiguous

 

2. Best Single-Hand Operation: Toddleroo Easy Swing & Lock Baby Gate

This sleek baby and toddler safety gate is ideal for your home looking for both elegance and security. The matte bronze finish of the gate adds to the decor of your home, and the hardware-mounted mechanism provides strict security at the stairways or any other spot in your house. The gate doesn’t have a threshold, so there’s no danger of tripping down and hurting yourself. The vertical gate bars aren’t easy to climb, and the extra height prevents your baby from reaching the top of the baby gate. The gate is made from quality materials. It also features a safety lock that can be easily operated even if you are carrying your baby on the other hand. With options of varying opening widths, this safety gate is a perfect choice for your home. If you are an absolute beginner, this video review might be useful. Pros

Stylish look Single hand operation Extra wide door opening One way swing and lock mechanism for added safety

Cons

The installation could be challenging

3. Best With Rubber Padding: Regalo Easy Fit Baby Gate

The pressure mount gate from Regalo is a quality baby safety gate that will protect your little one without causing distress to your home and walls. It comes with rubber padding to keep your gate secure and your walls free of any scuff. It is made from hard plastic and is greatly durable. Whether you want to install it at your doorways or a certain part of your porch/patio or garden, this product will be of great use to you. You can always adjust the width of the opening according to your convenience, and the excellent steel lock mechanism is a bonus. In fact, the gate is also easy to maintain. Just a little wipe, and your gate looks clean and sparkling. Check out this review for a detailed understanding about the product. Pros

Easy installation Extendable baby gate Ideal for indoors and outdoors No scraping in the walls

Cons

The lock mechanism may be a little cumbersome

 

4. Best Auto-Close Mechanism: Summer Modern Home Decorative Walk-Thru Baby Gate

This beautiful and elegant arched baby safety gate is a stylish and decorative addition to your home. The gate can be used both ways, as a pressure mount and as a hardware mount. This baby safety gate has an all-steel construction, and hence it is very strong. Plus, its optimum height ensures that your baby is safe and protected at all times. It can extend upto a good width, so your movement across the gate is unhindered. And if you wish to keep the door open, the hold-open mechanism enables you to do so as and when required. With such durability and functional features, this will surely be a helpful safety feature in your home. Pros

Auto-close lock mechanism 30-inch height for added safety Easy, single hand opening Appropriate for stairs and doorways

Cons

May not fit all space widths

 

5. Best Durable: Balance From Easy Walk-Thru Safety Gate

This baby security gate features a pressure mount installation that is easy to carry out, and it doesn’t cause any damage to your walls or house. The all-metal safety gate is perfect for doorways and halls. It is convenient to use with its gentle auto-close feature, and when you wish to keep it open, the hold-open mechanism enables you to do so. Hence you can keep your movements free or secure as the situation demands. The safety gate meets all the safety regulations, so you can be at peace when you buy it to keep your little ones safe. As a cherry on the cake, you also get 2-year customer support upon your purchase. Pros

Multiple options of opening widths Easy cleaning and maintenance High-grade steel body Durable body

Cons

May not be easy to install

 

6. Best In Safety: Safety 1st Lock and Swing Gate

This safety gate is a great option for your baby with its flexible mounting options. It comes with a standout and dependable safety feature called ‘Secure Tech’ that indicates if the gate has been correctly installed and locked. It gives you an added assurance and also peace of mind. The quality hinges give you the freedom to choose the swing action of the door, depending on whether it is located. The lift and release design is a highly convenient feature that makes your movement seamless and safe too. Pros

Option of both hardware mount and pressure mount Can be installed anywhere Easy to install and use Swing door option for easy pass through

Cons

Using the lock mechanism may be a little challenging

 

7. Best Easy-To-Maintain: Toddleroo by North States Superyard Extra Wide Baby Gate

This safety gate with extendable panels is an excellent product from the point of view of your child’s security. You can use it indoors to create a playpen or put it outdoors for picnic-like fun. The baby gate can accommodate 6 panels to create a superyard measuring almost 19 square feet of the secure play area, perfect for big-sized rooms or gardens. In fact you could also buy extra panels for an expanded area for group play or infant birthday parties. To make this time even more interesting, you could consider buying the colorful playmat that will add so much comfort, coziness, and fun during their playtime. It comes with a wall mounting kit as well, so that the gate will be a dependable one to use. Pros

Includes a convenient carrying strap Easy to clean and maintain Easy latch system for smooth move through passage Convenient mounting mechanism

Cons

Panels may not be very sturdy

 

8. Best Adjustable: Momcozy Mesh Safety Gate for Babies

This uniquely designed baby gate with a mesh body is efficient and convenient to use. It is entirely retractable and can be adjusted to a good width of about 55 inches. At the height of 33.7 inches, the gate stands tall to protect and prevent babies from any dangerous movements. Not only that, this moveable gate comes with 2 hardware mounting units, so if you want to change the place and install it in another room, you will have that option as well. The single hand locking mechanism, situated at the top side of the gate, can be turned easily to lock or unlock the gate. And the aesthetics of the look will surely impress you. So if you want to bring home a decent baby gate that keeps your baby safe and engaged within their play area inside the home, bring this to your house. Pros

Can be used indoors as well as outdoors Committed customer service and assurance Single handed operation Available in 3 color options

Cons

Plastic parts may not be sturdy

 

9. Best Extendable: Safety 1st Décor Easy Install Tall & Wide Baby Gate

If you want to make your home a child-friendly one, then this stylish baby gate from Safety 1st can be your ideal choice. This baby gate has a solid strength and can be extended upto a width of 47 inches so that it can be adapted to various doorways/hallways and your movements are also free of any disruptions. Since it features pressure mount installation, you can be assured of a fuss-free and scuff-free gated area. The gate also tells you whether the installation pressure is accurate so that you can adjust the same for an assured safety resolution. The tall gate features a height of 36 inches, and that is great to keep your child safe and prevent any mishap. Pros

Meets both JPMA and ASTM standards Sturdy and safe Unique pressure safety indicator Easy installation

Cons

The instruction manual may not be clear

 

10. Best For Large Spaces: Summer Custom Fit Baby Gate

This walk-through baby gate is an excellent option if you are looking for baby-proofing a bigger space within your home or outside. The tall 30-inch gate has the option of expanding up to 87 inches and 141 inch opening with the help of extra panels. In fact, after joining the panels together, you can even create a sturdy, protected, and freestanding playpen/play yard for your kids. The gate features a hardware mount if you plan to install it inside your home. The elegant grey mesh merges well with all kinds of decor and gives you a see-through glimpse even when you are busy, or your baby is seated within. The lock mechanism is easy to use and can be operated single-handedly when you are moving or carrying your baby. Pros

Suitable for oddly shaped places Stylish look Made from quality materials Easy to install

Cons

The product may not be very sturdy for bigger toddlers

 

11. Evenflo Walk-Thru Top Of Stairs Baby Gate

This wooden stairway baby gate is a charming yet sturdy safety solution for any house that has a little one crawling or moving about. The gate opening can accommodate upto 48 inches of expandable width.The 4 point hardware mount installation gives you a strong and secure base for the gate and there’s no threshold or floor bar to trip you over. It is great for busy parents as the gate can open both sides and provide you with an unhindered walk﹘through experience.If you are carrying your baby or anything else, the easy one hand open latch mechanism will make opening and closing the gate an effortless deal. In fact, if there is a space crunch, the gate can also retract back, giving you more freedom of space. Pros

Durable Sliding gate 2-way door swing mechanism Easy to install

Cons

The screw fastening mechanism may not be up to mark

 

12. Summer Multi Function Walk-Thru Baby Gate

If you want a baby safety gate that is extra sturdy and versatile in use, this could be your ideal baby safety gate. This gate can be used with ease﹘both indoors and outdoors. In fact the robust plastic body is good for any weather and hence it is perfect to be used in patios and decks too.It comes with a hardware mounting kit that ensures a hassle-free installation if you are planning to install it inside your home. There’s no step﹘over rail or threshold, so it’s absolutely safe against any tripping or accident and there is a supporting foot to keep the gate firmly in place. So get this amazing walk﹘through baby gate to keep your baby secure and happy. Pros

Durable plastic make Easy instruction manual Extra stable design Available in 2 colors

Cons

The gate might become brittle with time when kept outdoors

 

13. ASOJOY Retractable Baby Gates

This baby gate from ASOJOY is a useful gate with a wide opening. The gate can be used at doorways and can also function as a stairway gate when installed at the bottom of stairs. It features the unique fixing method that makes the gate easier to operate.It can be extended upto 55 inches and is fully retractable and removable when not needed. Indeed, this gives you a lot of room to move about in a convenient way. The sheet of mesh fabric is soft on skin; so even if your baby bumps into the gate accidentally, there won’t be any bruises. The secure, childproof lock mechanism also gives your baby the added security and hence you can be at peace when you are busy in another part of your house. Pros

Safer, non toxic parts Effortless single﹘ hand operation Sturdy material Clear assembling instructions

Cons

A tighter mesh fabric would be desirable for older and heavier babies

 

14. Qdos Crystal Designer Baby Safety Gate

This designer baby safety gate is a great option for you if you are fond of adding a modern touch to your home and also value the importance of safety and security of your child. This very contemporary gate is made of transparent acrylic that makes your room seem bigger compared to traditional baby gates and lets you have a clear, see﹘ through experience without compromising on your baby’s protection. The pressure mount system keeps your walls free of any mess and can be installed easily at doorways, hallways and at the bottom of a staircase. It has an indicator to specify if the lock is securely in place. During night time as well, the safety strip will keep your footing safe. Whatmore, this great looking gate can even be extended with additional tools. Pros

Meets the US, Canadian and European Safety standards Comes with baseboard adapters Night time glow strip Easy operation

Cons

The installation instructions might be challenging

 

15. The NaviGate Adjustable Child Safety Gate

This safety gate is perfect for those parents who want to be at ease, whether they are at home or out and about with their baby. This very easy to install baby gate, with its large silicone pads and unique ratcheting mechanism, is equally easy to collapse and be carried to different places. It requires no tools and doesn’t mess around with any sticking surface. It comes with a neat carry case with padding to keep it in place. The double lock mechanism ensures that the gate is secure enough to keep your baby protected at all times. And the material can be easily washed in a warm soap solution. So go for functionality and convenience with this cool baby gate. Pros

Adjustable width Meets and exceeds APA, JPMA and ASTM safety regulations Mesh fabric and nylon for increased air circulation Easy operation

Cons

Could be more sturdy

 

16. 4UHeart Child Safety Net for Baby Proofing

The child safety net is a very helpful hands on solution for baby proofing your house. With the help of zip ties and cables, it is easy to put up around your banisters, corridors, patios, garden spaces, and railings too. You can custom fit your area with this safety net. If you find the net size too big, then you can roll it back or keep it folded. On the other hand. You can connect more pieces to get your desired length. The fabric of the mesh is soft and resistant to pull, tugs or tears. It’s even easy to fold and store in case it’s not in use. The weatherproof and waterproof net can be used outdoors as well. So go and get this versatile safety gear for its utility and quality. Pros

Durable material Adjustable length Comes with zip ties for secure hold Available in 3 colors

Cons

May not have a very aesthetic appeal

 

17. Summer West End Safety Baby Gate

This very stylish baby gate not only offers your baby good protection, it is also a great addition to your home decor. It features a strong metal frame with a honey﹘ oak wooden door that can be adjusted for extra wide openings for up to 60 inches. The gate comes with 3 extensions and includes both a soft auto﹘ close function and the hold open feature when you need to walk through freely. The stoppers prevent the door swinging freely, thus protecting you and your baby from any injury. The integrated gate handle makes opening and closing the gate a smooth affair. Pros

Extra width Auto﹘ close mechanism Built in and adjustable door stoppers Elegant finish

Cons

The plastic parts may not be very sturdy

  Now that you have a comprehensive list of the best baby gates in the market, you must be wondering which is the best one for your baby. So here we are, to help you make your choice with our buying guide.

How To Choose The Right Safety Gates For Baby?

The Place

While buying your baby gate, it is important to consider the place where you would want to install it. The outward pressure mount gates are easily installable but they aren’t safe around places with railings as the mounts push the railings and make the rails wobbly or even near the stairs as they aren’t suitable for the use due to any accidental impact. Also check for threshold rails at the bottom of the gate; especially if installing at the top of a staircase as it is a serious tripping hazard. Then the other consideration is whether you want the gate to be installed indoors or outdoors. In an outdoor setting, a durable plastic body is more suited than metal or wood.

Solid and sturdy

Babies can be curious and when they see something like a baby gate, they won’t stop at pulling, pushing, leaning, climbing or even bending or biting the gate. So make sure that the gate you buy accommodates your baby’s age,height, weight, and even his/her general temperament. If your baby is one of the super adventurous one, you have to be more careful. Give special attention in case your baby has a walker!

The Locking system

Most older babies and toddlers are clever enough to understand the locking mechanism within a few months, so don’t go for gates which have standard button locks or just an open and lift system. Buy those baby gates which have locks that are reliable and child﹘proof. It should be difficult enough for a baby but simple enough for an adult to open, something with a larger grip with a slide/pinch or rotate action; especially when the other hand is busy holding the child or something else.

Retractable Style Gates

If you are going for retractable gates, make sure that you avoid the ones made of wood or the old traditional styled ones that form a diamond when opened. The same holds true for the gates that have bars for pressure locking. They are usually not suitable as there is risk of your little one’s fingers or tiny head getting stuck.

Easy installation

Go for baby gates that are easy to install. Simple instructions and steps are to be preferred over a complicated set of steps. The gates should not have too many screws or needing too many wall patches and paint work. A sturdy, simple mechanism for installation is always more welcome. After having read our buying guide, you are only left with one aspect and that is to correctly measure the baby gate so that it fits the area and your need.

How should I measure a baby gate?

When you are buying a baby gate, always keep the dimensions of the door in mind. Generally, a door has an average height of 6 ft. and 8 inches and the width is around 32 inches, so keep this as a base guideline. If your gate extends this guideline, you would need an extension or more to fit the opening. If you are in doubt, always cross check the dimensions before you order the gate and do size up if required. Usually most baby gates come in the range of 28 to 32 inches and the extra tall gates can extend upto 38 inches. However, greater the height of the gate, more is the weight and the size of screws to be drilled in the wall. Also, greater are the chances of getting hurt if your older toddler is able to climb across and fall.

Why Trust MomJunction?

Vibha Navarathna has experience in researching and writing for the baby care and parenting segments of the market. She enjoys curating product lists for her readers that can help improve children’s and parents’ lives in small and big ways. Her research process involves understanding the features and benefits of each product and reading through plenty of consumer reviews to decode favorability. Here, she has highlighted the best safety gates for babies to keep them safe and protect them against accidents or injuries. These safety gates are available in various designs and are durable, high-quality, and long-lasting.

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