Baby Safety with Baby Gates

Another baby safety product that we strongly recommend you get as your baby is able to crawl around is a baby gate. Unlike baby monitors that only give you the status of your baby’s safety, they ensure your baby is physically kept away from dangerous areas in your house such as stairs, kitchens, and other rooms that contain potential hazards.

What is a safety gate?

A safety gate is a physical barrier that is used to restrict a baby’s access to certain areas in the house. It is typically placed in doorways or at the top and bottom of stairs to prevent babies from entering potentially dangerous rooms or falling down the stairs. Safety gates are designed with a locking mechanism that adults can easily open, but are difficult for children to figure out.

Safety gates are essential for preventing injuries and accidents in the home. As babies grow and become more mobile, they are curious and often unaware of potential dangers around them. A safety gate serves as a physical barrier to keep them out of harm’s way while allowing them to explore their surroundings safely.

You can also read our guide on 65 ways to secure your baby.

When to get a baby gate:

It is recommended to get a baby gate when your baby starts crawling or showing signs of attempting to crawl. This usually happens between 6-10 months, but every baby develops at their own pace. It’s important to closely monitor your baby’s movements and determine when it’s necessary to install a baby gate.

Which gates are safest?

Backed by the fact that hardware-mounted gates meet and exceed ASTM safety standards for gates, they are considered the safest option for baby gates. Unlike pressure-mounted gates that rely on tension to stay in place, hardware-mounted gates are securely drilled into the walls or door frames and cannot be easily dislodged by a curious or determined baby.

Hardware-mounted gates rely on screws, bolts, or other hardware to attach the gate to a solid surface. This makes them more secure and sturdy compared to pressure-mounted gates that rely on tension and can be easily pushed down by a strong baby. Additionally, hardware-mounted gates have a higher weight capacity, making them suitable for older babies and toddlers

According to the CSCP report, mounting gates with hardware resulted in the least number of hazards compared to mounting gates with pressure. In fact, pressure-mounted gates were responsible for the majority of injuries and fatalities in children under 2 years old. Read more on baby gate buying guide here.

Other types of baby gates:

Free-standing baby gates: We recommend them but make sure you choose one that’s heavy enough to withstand the weight of a baby or toddler leaning against it. Additionally, make sure it has a wide base for added stability. Here is a review of 7 best freestanding gates we recommend.

Retractable baby gates: These are great for areas with limited space or where a permanent gate is not feasible. They work by retracting into itself when not in use and can be installed on doorways, hallways, and even staircases. However, they may not be as sturdy as hardware-mounted gates and should not be used at the top of stairs.
Swing-open baby gates: These are similar to traditional doors and have a latch or lock for easy opening and closing. They can also be mounted with hardware for added security. However, it’s important to ensure that the gate swings away from the stairs to prevent accidents.

Baby gate types by use:

Gates for fireplace: Ensure you get hardware-mounted and heat-resistant gates specifically designed for fireplaces. They should also have a latch or lock mechanism to prevent children from opening them. Read about how to safely babyproof your fireplace here.

Gates for top of stairs: As mentioned earlier, hardware-mounted gates are the safest option for the top of stairs. Additionally, make sure the gate swings away from the stairs and has a latch or lock that is out of reach of children. It’s also important to ensure that the gate is properly installed and securely attached to the wall or banister.
Gates for doorways and hallways: Pressure-mounted gates are suitable for these areas as they provide a temporary barrier and can easily be removed when not needed. However, always check the gate’s stability and make sure it can withstand the weight of a child leaning against it.
Gates for irregular spaces: For areas with uneven or non-standard openings, such as wide doorways or angled walls, look for gates that are adjustable in width and have flexible mounting options. This will allow you to create a secure barrier without damaging your walls.

Pet-friendly gates: If you have pets in the house, consider getting a gate with a small pet door or a gate specifically designed for pets. This will prevent your furry friends from getting stuck in the restricted area and allow them to freely move around while keeping children safe.
Gates for difficult stairs: There are gates most suited for stairs with unusual or difficult layouts. For example, a retractable gate can be used for narrow or awkwardly spaced stairs, while a super wide gate can cover larger areas such as open concept spaces. Always make sure the gate is securely installed and meets safety guidelines.
Gates for stairs with banisters: To ensure you get a safe and secure gate for stairs with banisters, look for options that come with additional mounting hardware or adapters designed specifically for this type of stairway. This will provide a stable barrier and prevent any gaps or openings along the sides of the gate.

No drill gates: For those who want a gate that can be easily removed without leaving any holes or marks on the walls, consider getting a no-drill gate. These gates use tension rods and rubber pads to securely grip the walls and can be adjusted to fit various widths. To ensure their safety, always double-check the stability of these gates before use.
Outdoor gates: If you need to restrict access to an outdoor area, there are gates designed specifically for this purpose. These gates are usually made with weather-resistant materials and come with additional features such as UV protection or rust-proof coatings. Make sure to measure the area accurately before purchasing an outdoor gate.

Gate types by materials used:

Plastic gates: We do not recommend plastic gates for areas that require high security, such as the top of stairs. However, they can be a good option for temporary use in doorways and hallways.

Wooden gates: These are aesthetically pleasing and blend well with most home decor. They are also sturdy and suitable for almost any area in the house. Make sure to check that the wood is smooth and free of splinters or sharp edges.
Metal gates: These are the most durable and sturdy option, making them ideal for high-risk areas like stairways. However, they tend to be more expensive than other materials.

Baby gate accessories:

Gate panels: For wider areas, you can purchase additional gate panels to expand the width of your gate. Make sure they are compatible with your existing gate before purchasing.

Extensions: Similar to gate panels, extensions can be added to the sides of a gate for a perfect fit in odd-sized openings or larger stairways.
Y-spindle adaptors: These are used for pressure-mounted gates to ensure a secure fit on uneven surfaces or areas with baseboards.
Wall cups: These are designed to be attached to the wall for extra support and stability, especially for pressure-mounted gates. They can also prevent marks and dents on walls caused by the gate.

How to choose the right baby gate:

Measure the width of the area where you want to install the gate to ensure a proper fit.
Consider the height of the gate to make sure it’s tall enough to prevent your baby from climbing over.
Look for gates with a secure locking mechanism that is easy for adults to use but difficult for children to open.

Check for any sharp edges or potential hazards on the gate itself, as well as the area where it will be installed.
Consider getting a gate with mesh or slats that are closely spaced to prevent your baby’s head from getting stuck.
If you have pets, consider getting a gate with an opening for them to pass through, or look for gates that can be easily opened and closed without removing the entire gate.

Safety precautions:

Regularly check the gate for any signs of wear and tear, such as loose parts or broken pieces.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation and use.
Never leave your child unattended near a baby gate, as they can still be hazards if not used properly.

If using a pressure-mounted gate, make sure it is securely fastened to prevent it from being pushed over.
Keep the area around the gate clear of any objects that could be used to climb over or pull on the gate.

Other uses for baby gates:

Aside from safety, baby gates can also be used as a barrier to keep pets out of certain areas, such as the kitchen or stairs.

They can also be useful for containing toys and other items in a designated play area.
Some parents also use baby gates as a visual cue to remind them to check on their child while they are playing or sleeping in another room.

Why we love gates to keep babies safe:

They provide a physical barrier to prevent access to potential hazards in the home.

They give parents peace of mind knowing that their baby is safe and contained in a designated area.
Baby gates are versatile and can be used in various ways to suit the needs of different families.
They allow babies to explore and play safely, without constant supervision from parents.

Using a baby gate can also help develop a sense of boundaries and promote independence in children.
It is important to remember that every child develops and grows at their own pace, so it is essential to regularly assess the need for using baby gates as they grow older and become more mobile.
With proper use and maintenance, baby gates can be an invaluable tool in keeping babies safe and providing peace of mind for parents. So, it is worth investing in a high-quality gate that meets safety standards and can withstand wear and tear over time.

Conclusion:

Baby gates are an essential baby safety item for any household with young children. They not only provide a physical barrier to prevent access to potential hazards but also have various other uses such as containing pets and toys, promoting independence in children, and giving parents peace of mind. As babies grow and become more mobile, it is essential to regularly assess the need for using baby gates and ensure they are properly maintained for optimal safety. Investing in a high-quality gate that meets safety standards is worth the peace of mind it can provide for parents. So, make sure to include a baby gate in your list of must-have baby items before your little one starts crawling. Happy parenting!