If you’re a parent, then you know that keeping your little one safe is of utmost importance. That’s why finding the best retractable baby gate is essential. A good baby gate will keep your child safe by preventing them from getting into areas that may be dangerous, like stairs or a kitchen. But with so many different options available, how do you know which one is right for you? Read on to learn more about the best retractable baby gates and find the perfect one for your home.
What is a retractable baby gate?
A retractable baby gate is just like any other type of baby gate, except it features a spring-loaded retracting panel that allows you to open the gate without having to step over or move it. If you have high stairs or simply don’t want your little one in the kitchen when you’re cooking, this type of baby gate can be incredibly useful.
How do you install a retractable baby gate?
If you’re ready to buy a retractable baby gate, then you’ve probably realized how many models are available. Before you spend your money on the wrong model, it’s important to understand how they are installed. The best retractable baby gates will come with their own mounting cups, but if yours doesn’t, you can always purchase them separately.
How do retractable baby gates keep babies safe?
A good baby gate will not only stop your child from getting into areas that are unsafe for them, but it will also have the proper certification that ensures your little one is protected. The best retractable baby gates will provide the same type of protection as any other kind of baby gate and keep your child safe from items like knives, glass bottles, and other hazards.
What makes a retractable baby gate the best?
A retractable baby gate will provide you with all of the security that you expect, but it’s important to look for one that is reasonably priced. The best retractable baby gate will be affordable without sacrificing an ounce of quality. The last thing you want is for your child to get hurt because the gate broke, so it’s important to find one that’s both affordable and durable.
How much do retractable baby gates cost?
If you’re looking for the best retractable baby gate, it’s important to consider the price. Fortunately, retractable baby gates tend to be more affordable than other types of baby gates. You should be able to find one that fits your budget with ease. It’s also important to look for one that comes backed by a guarantee, just in case there are any issues with it.
How do I choose the best retractable baby gate?
Before you buy the first retractable baby gate that you find, it’s important to fully understand what makes the best brands stand out from other models on the market.
Below are critical factors to consider:
- The width of the area you’ll be using the baby gate: You’ll want to make sure that the baby gate is wide enough to fit in the space you have available. Most retractable baby gates are about 30 inches wide, but some models can be as wide as 48 inches. The wrong measurement of the wall and subsequent order of an oversized or undersized width of the gate will lead to purchase returns as it won’t help you or your baby and you won’t be able to adjust.
- The height of your baby: It’s also important to make sure that the baby gate is tall enough to provide the proper protection for your child. Most baby gates are about 32 inches tall, but some models can be as tall as 42 inches. If you have a very tall baby, it’s important to find a model that will be tall enough to keep them safe.
- The type of latch: The type of latch is also an important factor to consider when choosing the best retractable baby gate. Some models have a simple push-button latch, while others have a more complex locking system. If you have a very active child, you may want to consider a model with a more secure latch.
- Materials used to make the gate: The material that the baby gate is made from will also play a role in its overall durability. Retractable baby gates are typically made from sturdy plastic or metal, which makes them very durable.
- Safety standards: When you’re looking for the best retractable baby gate, it’s important to make sure that it meets all of the safety standards set forth by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) or by JPMA. This ensures that the baby gate will provide the proper protection for your child.
- Mounting space: Consider the location where you’ll be installing the gate. If you are getting a gate for the stairs, the most ideal retractable model should open in the middle so that it can be mounted on both sides of the staircase. That configuration will make it very sturdy and less likely to give way under pressure or weight. If your stairs have banisters, you may have to get creative with the installation to make sure the gate is mounted correctly and securely. If mounting it on top of the stairs, make sure that the distance between the slats is no more than four inches, so the baby’s head can’t get stuck in between. For front doors or doorways, you’ll want a retractable baby gate that can be installed without drilling any holes into door frames or trim. Some models come with adhesive strips that allow you to do just that.
- Portability: If you plan on traveling with your baby, it’s important to find a retractable baby gate that is easy to transport. Some models come with a carrying case, which makes it easy to take the gate with you on vacation or to visit relatives.
Pros of retractable baby gates:
- -They’re easy to use
- -They’re more affordable than other types of baby gates
- -They’re durable
- -They come in a variety of styles and colors
- -Most models meet safety standards set by the ASTM or JPMA
Cons of retractable baby gates:
- -Some models can be difficult to install
- -They may not be suitable for very active children
- -They may not be tall enough for very tall babies
- -Some models don’t have a very secure latch
What are some alternatives to retractable baby gates?
The most common type of child safety gate is the pressure-mounted baby gate. Pressure-mounted baby gates are easy to install and you won’t have to put any holes in your wall in order for them to work. However, pressure-mounted baby gates do not provide the same amount of safety as retractable baby gates do because they can be knocked over or moved out of position.
Comparison Table of our Top Picks for 2023
| Image | Title | Extends up to (width) | Available colors | Item Weight | Gate Height | Prime | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Top | Perma Child Safety Indoor/Outdoor Retractable Baby Gate | 71 inches | 4 | 3.3 lbs. | 33 inches | PrimeEligible | Buy Now |
 Top | EasyBaby Products Indoor Outdoor Retractable Baby Gate | 55 inches | 3 | 3.7 lbs. | 33 inches | PrimeEligible | Buy Now |
 Top | Momcozy Retractable Baby Gate | 55 inches | 3 | 4.09 lbs. | 33.7 inches | PrimeEligible | Buy Now |
 Top | YOOFOR Retractable Baby Gate | 55 inches | 3 | 4.04 lbs. | 33 inches | PrimeEligible | Buy Now |
Reviews of the Best Retractable Baby Gates in 2023
1. Perma Child Safety Indoor/Outdoor Retractable Baby Gate
Our overall best retractable baby gate in the list is from Perma Child Safety, a recognized brand in the baby products industry. It made it to our review as the top extra wide retractable baby gate and ranks as #4 in the Door & Stair Baby Gates category on Amazon. The gate is suitable for homes where kids are between 6 and 24 months old. It has more than 20k parent reviews.
This long retractable baby gate extends up to 71 inches wide and stands 33 inches tall which makes it ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. The retractable design offers a versatile safety solution that is user-friendly in high-traffic areas of your home. We loved how easy it is to open and close this baby gate using one hand. All you need is to twist and release the button then pull the handle to extend the gate. Its release mechanism locks automatically after you release the handle.
This baby gate is affordable and is made with a durable UV and claw-resistant mesh that retracts away easily. The company offers a 1-year limited warranty.
- PRODUCT DETAILS: This Extra Wide Outdoor Retractable Gate extends up to 71 wide and is 33 tall and includes components for easy installation: screws, catch mounts, wall spacer shims for the baseboards, and installation guides
- RETRACTABLE DESIGN: A versatile home safety solution, allowing easy use in high traffic areas without the trouble of disassembly and designed to adjust to any door width up to 71 inches
- ONE HANDED OPERATION: The simple 2-step operation allows you to open and close while holding your child: 1. Push, twist and release button; 2. Pull the handle to extend the gate, when the handle is released, gate automatically locks the release mechanism. Self-Locking: No
- CHILDREN & PETS: Built for functionality, the Indoor/Outdoor Retractable Gate works as both an infant gate and a pet gate to keep mischief contained by providing a safe, closed off environment to play. For pets from 10 to 40 pounds.
- STANDARDS APPROVED: All gate lines are tested to the highest safety standards, meeting or exceeding both ASTM or EN standards. Each gate is certified and includes a 1 year limited warranty.
2. Summer Infant Retractable Baby Gate
Our second-best on the list is the summer retractable baby gate. This pretty baby gate is made from durable, decorative mesh fabric with a silver satin finish and charcoal accents. The gate provides a great way to childproof your home in style. It is in the top 100 of Kids’ Bed Rails & Rail Guards on Amazon.
This baby gate from Summer Infant is designed to fit openings that are up to 50 inches wide and stand 30 feet tall. You will enjoy the full walk-thru space on your entrances at home. Even better, it comes with a baseboard installation kit for ease of mounting where baseboards are present.
We also loved the one-handed operation. The gate comes with a simple locking lever that makes it hassle-free to push down or pull up to lock and unlock. During our review, however, we found many parents that complained about how the gate is unsuitable for use on top of stairs. They said most young kids can push through it which is dangerous.
![Summer Infant Retractable Baby Gate](<iframe style="width:120px;height:240px;" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=nkroti10-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon®ion=US&placement=B00TI62Z9Q&asins=B00TI62Z9Q&linkId=6ce877339db948cf2ce0014767222bf0&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true"></iframe>)
3. Dreambaby L820 Retractable Gate
Dreambaby has an experience of more than 20 years in the baby products industry with a focus on child safety. The L820 model is one of the top dream baby retractable gates. It comes in a white color that complements well with most décor and is made from high-quality mesh for the longevity of use and optimal baby safety. In addition, it is UV treated which prevents fading and maintains a perfect look for longer.
This baby gate comes with 2 sets of mounting hardware that makes it versatile for use in separate locations. It retracts to fit narrow to wider openings that measure up to 55 inches wide and is ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. It stands 33 inches tall. When opened, it retracts fully and has no bottom bar which eliminates tripping hazards. Most parents admired the templates that are included for installation.
We admire the one-handed operation that comes in handy when you are holding your little one with the other hand. What we liked most about this Dreambaby retractable gate is how the company prioritizes optimal safety. The gate has a warning sound that alerts you when it is being opened.
4. EasyBaby Products Indoor Outdoor Retractable Baby Gate
EasyBaby provides some of the best retractable mesh baby gates on the market today. This baby gate is suitable for use with children from 6 to 24 months and is designed to be fitted between rigid surfaces such as gypsum board, timber, or hard wall. It is currently in the top 10 of the Door & Stair Baby Gates category on Amazon with more than 15k parent reviews.
This gate made it to our list as among the most ideal retractable baby gate for large openings that fit openings up to 55 inches wide. You can adjust it according to your needs and it has a height of 33 inches. Opening and closing this baby gate is easy with one hand and is very space-efficient as it retracts out of the way when not in use.
The baby gate comes in white, black, and grey colors with a decent price tag of under $50.
- Indoor and Outdoor: Can be installed at top and bottom of stairways, doorways, hallways, indoor and outdoor use. includes components for easy installation: stainless steel screws, catch mounts, wall spacers and installation guide templates. must be fitted between rigid surfaces such as plasterboard, timber or hardwall.This retractable gate is hardware mounted gate, Drill a 3mm pilot hole for timber surface and for hardwall drill a 6mm hole for installation.
- Product Size: This Retractable Gate Fits openings up to 55 wide and is 33 tall. can be adjusted to fit your openings according to your needs. Mesh can be completely retracted away when not in use.
- One Handed Operation to Open and Close: Push and turn clockwise to unlock gate, grasp handle to pull and hook handle onto catches, push and turn counter-clockwise to lock gate.
- Fits Your Purpose: Perfect solution for doorways and stairs locking the way for babies and pets needed to provide safety and security in the whole house. The stair gates is used for children and pets blocking off their way out or in.
- Standard Approved: All gate lines are tested to the safety standards, meeting or exceeding both ASTM or EN standar
5. Momcozy Retractable Baby Gate
This retractable baby gate from Momcozy is yet another great choice for babyproofing your home in style. It made it to our list as one of the best retractable baby gates for stairs and can also be used outdoors. The gate has a good reception and features on Amazon’s category of the top 100 Door & Stair Baby Gates.
It has been designed for use in openings that measure up to 55 inches wide and stand 33.7 inches tall. Like Dreambaby above, this baby gate also comes with 2 sets of mounting hardware for ease of use in multiple places. We liked the one-handed operation that involves pressing and rotating the ball cap to lock and unlock the baby gate. It makes it super convenient when you only have one hand free.
Even better, this baby gate features a double locking mechanism that blocks your little one from accessing the restricted area for maximum safety. The Momcozy retractable gate is backed by 2-year quality assurance.
- 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.
- One Handed Operation-Just gently press and rotate the ball cap to lock and unlock baby gates with one hand and can easily pass through. All make it super convenient to use when you’re carrying toys, diapers, or little kiddos around.
- 2 Years Quality Assurance-We provide lifelong technical consultation and customer service. Just contact Momcozy customer service if any issues happe
You can read our review here on the best hardware-mounted baby gates.
6. YOOFOR Retractable Baby Gate
Our review of the top retractable baby gates would be incomplete without mentioning YOOFOR. Like some in the list, this baby gate is designed to fit extra-wide spaces that are 55 inches wide. It stands 33 inches tall and also comes with 2 sets of attachments for versatility. This baby gate is at #10 in the Door & Stair Baby Gates category on Amazon.
This retractable baby gate from YOOFOR features a one-handed operation that makes it easy to open when you are holding something else with the other hand. We liked the gate’s double locking mechanism that is hard for your baby to open when closed for prime security. The mesh is strong enough but soft to not harm your little one in any way. Many parents have rated it highly for ease of use.
- 【Retractable Design】 Retractable baby gate extends up to 55 inches (140 CM) wide and is 33 inches (85 CM) 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.
- 【One Handed Operation】 Just gently push and turn the ball cap to lock and unlock the gate with one hand. All make it super convenient to use when you’re holding baby or carrying toys, diapers, around.With an aluminum alloy roll mandrel, retracts smoother.
- 【Structure for Safety Use】 Retractable Gate featured with double locking mechanism works as both an infant gate and a pet gate to keep mischief contained by providing a safe, closed off environment to play.The strong, soft mesh to prevent kid and dog from any hurt when they accidentally bumped into the door. All gate lines are tested to the safety standards, meeting or exceeding EN standards.
- 【Moveable Baby Gate】 Comes with 2 sets of attachments, baby gate can be easily moved and de-attached from the gate mount hardware, to another location where another set of hardware installed. It can be installed at stairways, doorways, hallways, indoor and outdoor.
- 【YOOFOR Technology &Service 】 YOOFOR is dedicated to providing superior quality products and services for all. Please feel free to contact us if the retractable baby gate does not satisfy you for any reas
If you are looking for a retractable baby gate for banister, you will surely love the No Drill Portable Banister To Banister Baby Gate from The Stair Barrier Baby Safety Gates for Kids. It is a gorgeous stair safety solution with fabric that is hard to climb and attaches to banisters securely without the need to drill.
If you are looking for a retractable baby gate that requires no drilling, the Retract-A-Gate 52″ White by Smart Retract would be an excellent choice.
How to mount retractable baby gates:
- 1. Choose the right size gate: The gate size is the width of the opening you want to install the gate. Regular brands may be about 1.5 ft but can get expandable or extra wide gates if you have a wide doorway.
- 2. Find the perfect location: You want to make sure the baby gate is placed in an area where your child cannot reach any harmful objects. It’s also important to make sure that the gate is properly installed so that it doesn’t pose a safety hazard.
- 3. Install the gate: Most retractable baby gates come with all the necessary hardware for installation. Begin by attaching the brackets to the wall using the screws provided. then, slide the gate into the brackets and tighten the screws to secure it in place.
- 4. Test the gate: Once you’ve installed the gate, it’s important to test it to make sure it’s properly secured. Try opening and closing the gate a few times to make sure it’s functioning properly.
- 5. Make any necessary adjustments: If the gate isn’t opening or closing smoothly, you may need to make some adjustments. Loosen the screws on the brackets and make any necessary adjustments to the position of the gate. Once you’ve found the perfect position, tighten the screws to secure the gate in place.
Where to buy
Do you live in Australia, Canada, Ireland, NZ, the UK, the US, and are looking for the best retractable baby gates for sale? You can buy them on Amazon using the links we provided above. They are also available on baby shop products near you or online stores like Walmart, Babies R Us, Kohls, Target, among others.
FAQs
- About the Author
- Latest Posts
- More info
Sandra W. Bullock is a grand-mom to two boys and is part of the review board here at Motherhoodhq.com. She is responsible for the quality control of content and is among our most experienced moms. She has over 20 years of writing parenting content online focussing on baby safety indoors and outdoors. She has written widely on babyproofing nurseries and homes for infants and toddlers and published work on privacy and the safety of baby monitors. She is a renowned advocate for non-wifi baby monitors that cannot be hacked and spends a lot of time educating parents on how to secure their homes – including ways to secure the baby from harm in and around homes. Sandra is a native of Atlanta where she also works. She can be reached using her email, Sandra.w(at)motherhoodhq.com