Whether it is baby bottles or baby gates, there has been a lot of debate on the safety of polycarbonate used to make most plastic baby products. Plastic baby gates, including those with pressure-fit installation, have been linked to serious injuries in young children. A 2014 study by the Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Ohio revealed that over 1800 visits to the emergency room were linked to baby gates.
In this blog post, we will discuss the pros and cons of using plastic baby gates in your home. We will also provide some tips on how to choose the right gate for your needs. So, whether you are just getting started with child-proofing or you are looking for an upgrade, read on for some helpful advice!
What are plastic baby gates made of?
Most plastic baby gates are made of polycarbonate, which is a clear, rigid plastic that is shatterproof. Polycarbonate is strong and durable, making it an ideal material for products that need to withstand a lot of wear and tear, such as plastic baby gates.
However, polycarbonate can also leach chemicals, such as bisphenol A (BPA), into food and drinks. BPA is a hormone-disrupting chemical that has been linked to a variety of health problems, including cancer, reproductive issues, and developmental problems in children.
Risks of polycarbonate to babies
Despite the concerns about the safety of polycarbonate, it is still the most widely used material for plastic baby gates. If you are concerned about the safety of your child, there are a few things you can do to reduce their exposure to BPA and other chemicals:
1. Look for plastic baby gates made with safer materials, such as glass or stainless steel.
2. Avoid buying products that have been heat-treated to make them more shatter-resistant, as this is believed to increase the leaching of harmful chemicals into food and drinks.
3. Only use plastic baby gates in areas where there is no risk of your child banging their head or otherwise injuring themselves.
4. Talk to your pediatrician about the potential health risks associated with polycarbonate and other chemicals used in plastic baby products, so that you can make informed decisions about the safety of your child.
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Are Plastic baby gates safe?
Plastic gates made of polycarbonate that are BPA-free are totally safe. BPA is an industrial chemical used in the manufacture of several plastic products since the 1950s. There is documented evidence in research that found that BPA can leach from certain types of plastics and has been linked to a variety of health problems. A 2003-4 CDC health survey of individuals of age 6 and above revealed that 93% of 2,500 people who were screened for BPA in their urine tested positive. Even small amounts of BPA can be harmful to kids as highlighted here and it is important to look for plastic baby gates that are free from BPA or other potentially harmful chemicals.
In the list and reviews of plastic baby gates below, we have picked the safest plastic baby gates that do not contain BPA and other harmful chemicals. We also included non-toxic plastic-based baby gates that have passed the voluntary standards issued by the American Society for Testing and Materials(ASTM).
We have also included some tips on how to choose the right baby gate for your needs, as well as some safety considerations to keep in mind when installing and using plastic baby gates.
Our picks below will not pose a hazard if they fall on your child and they do not have any rough edges that could scratch your kids’ skin. Plastic baby gates usually come with rubber pads that can help prevent them from sliding or scratching your floors. Plastic gates are also less likely to break than metal gates, which means they won’t pose a tripping hazard if they fall down.
Pros of Plastic Baby Gates
- They are typically very affordable.
- They usually come with rubber pads that will not scratch hard flooring.
- They can be used in different places such as at the top and bottom of stairs, around the house, and in doorways.
- They typically do not have gaps or spaces between bars like metal or wooden baby gates.
- They are easy to install and they usually require less effort than other types of baby gates.
- They do not leave any marks or scratches on walls like metal or wooden baby gates.
- Most of them come with rubber pads that will prevent them from sliding or scratching delicate floors.
- Plastic baby gates are much less likely to break than metal gates, which means they won’t pose a tripping hazard if they fall down.
Cons of Plastic Baby Gates
- Plastic baby gates do not have the same level of durability as metal baby gates
- Plastic baby gates are typically not as attractive or stylish as other types of baby gates
- Less sturdy than wooden gates
- Their screws may eventually loosen over time
- Some plastic baby gates can be difficult to open and close and may require more effort to install
- Some plastic baby gates may not work well with all types of flooring
- The rubber pads that plastic gates come with may wear down and fall off
How to pick the best plastic baby gates
There is no shortage of options when it comes to choosing plastic baby gates. Plastic baby gates can be purchased at just about any department store or online retailer, such as Amazon. Plastic baby gates are generally affordable and they come in a wide array of styles and designs. When shopping for plastic baby gates, you should look for the following features:
Plastic baby gate screws may eventually loosen over time, making the baby gate less safe. Typically, plastic baby gates do not have safety latches or locks that will help prevent children from opening them, which can be dangerous. Therefore, make sure that they are tightly installed to prevent accidents.
Plastic baby gates may not work well with all types of flooring, such as carpeting where the floor guards could be tripped over instead of preventing children from climbing over.
Comparison Table for the best Plastic Baby Gates
Image | Title | Gate Height | Fits spaces between | Mounting Type | Enclosed space | Prime | Buy |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | Regalo Plastic 192-Inch Super Wide Adjustable Baby Gate and Play Yard | 26 inches | 192 inches wide | Wall mounted | n/a | PrimeEligible | Buy Now |
![]() | Evenflo Versatile Play Space | 28 inches | Free Standing | Over 18.5 square feet | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | |
![]() | Babelio Baby Gate for Doorways and Stairs, | 30 inches | 26 to 40 inches wide | Pressure mounted | n/a | PrimeEligible | Buy Now |
![]() | Toddleroo by North States 42” Wide Supergate Ergo Baby Gate | 26 inches | 26 to 42 inches wide | Pressure mounted | n/a | PrimeEligible | Buy Now |
![]() | Safety 1st Pressure Mount Lift, Lock and Swing Gate | 26 inches | 28 to 42 inches wide | Hardware or pressure mount | n/a | PrimeEligible | Buy Now |
![]() | Toddleroo by North States Superyard Colorplay Ultimate 6 Panel Baby Play Yard | 26 inches | 192 inches wide | Free standing | 18.5 Square Feet | Prime | Buy Now |
![]() | Regalo Easy Fit Plastic Adjustable Extra Wide Baby Gate | 23 inches | 28 to 42 inches wide | Pressure mounted | n/a | PrimeEligible | Buy Now |
![]() | Safety 1st 2 Pack Easy Install 28" Walk Thru Gate, Fits Between 29" and 38" | 28 inches | 29 to 38 inches wide | Pressure mounted | n/a | PrimeEligible | Buy Now |
Reviews of the best plastic baby gates in 2022
1. Regalo Plastic 192-Inch Super Wide Adjustable Baby Gate and Play Yard
At the top of our list of the best plastic baby gates is this extra wide baby gate from Regalo, a well-known brand when it comes to quality baby products. This durable and convenient baby gate is designed for babies 6 up to 24 months and comes in great colors that match your home décor.
This Regalo baby gate fits openings that are up to 192 wide which makes it an ideal baby gate for uneven walls such as angled openings. You can also use it on the landing of stairs, fireplaces, hallways, and more. It stands 26 inches to prevent your kiddo or pet from climbing out. We liked the 2-in-1 design that allows this baby gate to convert from a super-wide gate into a 6-panel that creates a 19 sq. ft. play yard for your little one. Each of these panels is configurable which means you can adjust it to fit nearly any opening in your home.
The Regalo plastic super-wide baby gate features a dual locking lever handle that provides pass-through convenience for adults. We liked the wall mounting installation that provides extra security and protection and how it folds flat for storage convenience.
- 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
- DURABLE AND CONVENIENT: The design is durable and convenient. Can be used both indoor and outdoor
- SAFETY: designed with a safety locking feature. Wall mounted for added security and protection. Meets all current safety standards. For children up to 24 months and great for pets too
- NOTE: This product can be installed as hardware mounted (requires drilling holes)
2. Evenflo Versatile Play Space
Our second-best on the list is this plastic baby gates play yard from Evenflo that is devised for both indoor and outdoor use. This versatile play space is now in the top 10 Nursery Furniture (Baby) category on Amazon. The maximum recommended weight of this baby gate is 16.9 lbs., and it comes in 3 colors with a 2-panel extension option.
This baby gate comes with 6 panels that join together to create an 18 sq. ft. play space and stands 28 inches tall. This creates a safe space for your 6 to 24 months old kiddo to spend fun time with their toys. The PP plastic material is durable and sturdy and putting up the play space is easy. It has a unique hinge design that allows each panel to be used as door access for convenience.
We liked the exclusive reversible legs with outdoor stakes for lawn stability and also to prevent it from moving when in use. If your kiddo is using it indoors, there are non-scratch floor pads that protect your floor surfaces from damage.
- Indoor, Outdoor Versatility: Exclusive reversible legs have outdoor stakes for lawn stability and anti-movement, non-scratch floor pads for any interior floor surfaces
- Spacious: Over 18.5 square feet and 28” tall provides a safe space for the child to play
- Easy and Quick Assembly: No tools required
- Unique Hinge Design: Each panel can be a door access
- Usage information: For use with children 6 to 24 months. Important: Never use with a child that is able to climb over, dislodge, or open the enclosure. Carefully read all instructions and warnings on the product, product labels, and instruction manuals before use.Installation Method: Hinge Connectors Locations for Use: Indoor and Outdoor enclosure. This enclosure should not be used as a Barr
3. Babelio Baby Gate for Doorways and Stairs
Are you looking for the best plastic baby gates for stairs? You will love this product from Babelio for pets and kids that is designed with the door. It comes in 3 cute colors that will complement your house décor at a price tag of under $100.
This baby gate comes with a design that allows it to fit narrow to wide openings of between 26 and 40 inches wide. It stands 30 inches tall which makes it perfect for most toddlers as well as small pets. You can use it in your home as a fireplace guardrail, playground, or entrance on a stair landing. The gate’s pressure mounting makes installation convenient.
We liked the auto-close function that provides you with a hands-free operation in case you are holding your little one or something else with one hand. The gate opens smoothly and swings in one direction which is safe in case you are using it on the stairs. It also has a hold-open feature that keeps the door open. This gate features a walk-in door with double lock lever handles for ease of access for adults.
- QUICK & EASY INSTALL: Pressure mount design that is quick to set up. No additional tools are required for installation, and no need to punch holes in the wall. 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.
- EXTRA NARROW/WIDE/TALL: Expands to fit openings between 26-40 inches wide. Whether it is a narrow bathroom door and toilet door, or a wide doorway and stair, this safety gate is suitable. Stands 30 inches tall. Ideal for use with toddlers and small pets. Please be sure measure your opening prior to purchase to ensure proper fit.
- AUTO-CLOSE FUNCTION: For added hands-free convenience, this safety gate is equipped with an auto-close function that gently closes the door behind you and a hold-open feature that keeps the door open. This gate opens effortlessly with one-hand operation. The gate only swings in one direction to avoid the danger of swinging over stairs.
- EASY AND SAFETY LOCK : The baby gate is easy to install on the wall, and it has a walk-in door with double lock lever handles, allowing adults to pass easily. It is very suitable as a playground, a fireplace guardrail, an entrance on a stair landing, or a super gate for very large openings.
- WIDELY APPLICABLE AND ADJUSTABLE: Includes a 5.5-inch wide extension kit, two 2.75-inch wide extension kits, 2 U-bolt, 3 anti-collision grooves and 4 wall protectors. Perfect for doorway, hallway and bottom of stair with banister use. Gate can quickly be removed out of the opening for easy stora
4. Toddleroo by North States 42” Wide Supergate Ergo Baby Gate
Toddleroo by North States is a renowned brand in the baby products industry since 1953. And while most of their products might be highly priced, most parents and buyers say they are worth the price. This Supergate Ergo baby gate is available in a range of striking colors that blend in flawlessly with your home’s décor.
This interlocking plastic baby gate is designed to mount on openings that are between 26 and 42 inches wide to help keep your furry friend or baby contained for their safety. We admired the ease and versatility of this baby gate that allows you to use pressure or hardware mounting. In addition, it comes with a comfort handle design that is incredibly hassle-free to operate. The handle offers an effortless press and release action and is equipped with a finger guard that prevents pinching.
The Supergate Ergo baby gate from Toddleroo by North States has no threshold trip hazards which makes it safe when used as mounted swing gate.
- KEEPING TODDLERS SAFE SINCE 1953: Worry-Free Safety! The Toddleroo by North States Supergate Ergo Baby Gate is a durable gate designed to be difficult for kids to climb and securely block doorways, stairways and other spaces.
- AMAZING VALUE, EASY TO INSTALL: The Supergate Ergo Baby Gate is versatile and easy to install. Choose between pressure mounting for a quick setup, or hardware mounting (hardware included) to make it perfect for stairways.
- GREAT FOR MOST OPENINGS: Easy to adjust and works for most openings. The Supergate Ergo Baby Gate can be adjusted to fit opening from 26 to 42 inches wide.
- STYLISH AND DEPENDABLE: Comes in an ivory finish and fits seamlessly in any of your standard openings. The durable, American-made plastic is sturdy and hard to climb!
- BABY SAFE: Safe for babies ages 6-24 months. Proudly made in the U
5. Safety 1st Pressure Mount Lift, Lock and Swing Gate
Are you on the hunt for a gate that suits almost all the needs you have in your house? The Safety 1st Lift, Lock & Swing Gate is a great option as it comes with a unique 2-in-1 design that allows it to be used in two different modes. This means that you can either install it through pressure mounting or hardware mounting.
This baby gate from Safety 1st is designed to fit spaces that are 28 to 42 inches wide and stands 26 inches high which helps keep kids and pets contained. We liked the complete-control top handle that allows you to lock, release, and adjust the gate to your preference. It is operated using one hand for optimal convenience during busy schedules at home.
This magnificent baby gate utilizes pass-through and swing-open convenience when you use the hardware-mounted design. If you install the gate using pressure mounting, you operate it using the lift-to-release design. Even better, this Safety 1st gate is fitted with a SecureTech indicator that lets you confirm that it is properly locked in maximum safety.
- Hardware or pressure mount
- One hand, top release handle. Features a complete-control top handle that lets you lock, release, and adjust as needed. Wall cups must be installed to keep the gate in place
- 28inches – 42inches wide, 26inches high
- The minimum opening is 30 inches in hardware mount, swing mode
- Note-opening beneath installed gate is 1 to 2 inch from floor. Only install hardware into stair posts, door frames or wood studs behind wall
- NOTE: This product can be installed as hardware mounted (requires drilling hol
Read more about easy-to-open baby gates
6. Toddleroo by North States Superyard Colorplay Ultimate 6 Panel Baby Play Yard
If you want to gift your little one with an adorable gift, colorful plastic baby gates are an ideal pick. This JPMA certified Superyard Colorplay Ultimate from Toddleroo by North States comes in 6 and 8 panel styles to help customize different buyer needs. It is safe for babies 6 to 24 months old.
The Superyard Ultimate provides your little one with 18.5 sq. ft. play space or enclosure so they can make amusing childhood memories. This baby play yard stands 26 inches tall which keeps most kids safe until they can outgrow it and start climbing. Even better, this baby play yard can be increased in size to 334.4 sq. ft. by purchasing a 2-panel extension separately.
You will love the easy access door that opens easily with a single hand by sliding the latch back and lifting the door up and out to open it. This brightly colored play yard is hassle-free to set up and fold and comes with carrying strap and non-slip pads for optimal convenience.
- KEEPING TODDLERS SAFE SINCE 1953: Worry-Free Safety! Perfect for both indoor & outdoor use, the Toddleroo by North States Superyard Ultimate creates a safe playpen anywhere. Add the convenient Folding ABC Play Mat (sold separately) for added comfort during tummy time!
- AMAZING VALUE, SAFE & CONVENIENT: The Superyard Ultimate features an easy access door that opens easily with one hand. Just slide the latch back, lift the door up and out to open. Simply reverse this motion to close.
- VERSATILE & EXPANDABLE: This durable plastic six-panel play yard creates a protected play space up to 18.5 square feet. Want to increase the size? Just add a Two-Panel Extension (sold separately) to create up to 34.4 square feet of play space!
- EASY TO USE: This play yard sets up and folds up quickly. Comes complete with carrying strap and non-slip pads.
- BABY SAFE: This gate is JPMA certified. Safe for babies ages 6-24 months. Fun for your child, peace of mind for you! Proudly made in the U
7. Regalo Easy Fit Plastic Adjustable Extra Wide Baby Gate
Yet another product from the Regalo brand, the Easy Fit Plastic baby gate is the only one in our list that has a price tag of under $40. The baby gate is sturdy enough for indoor and outdoor use and fits openings and stairways of between 28 and 42 inches wide and stands 23 inches tall.
This baby gate features a durable plastic with a swift and easy pressure mount system to make installation a breeze. To leave your precious wall scrape-free, the gate has rubber bumpers for gentle protection. This extra wide baby gate is designed with safety lock which means that it meets all the safety standards required to keep your little one secure.
Suitable for kids 6 to 24 months, this baby gate is installed via hardware mounting with a patented easy fit system that makes installing and folding hassle-free.
- 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
- SAFETY: Designed with safety-lock, meets all safety standard. Hardware mount for added security. Perfect for children 6-24 months. Great for pets too.
- EASY ON WALLS: Designed with soft rubber bum
8. Safety 1st Easy Install 28″ Walk Thru Gate
This review would be incomplete without mentioning this Easy Install Walk Thru gate from Safety 1st. The original pack of 1 size measures 38 x 28 inches and comes with a customizable width that adjusts to fit openings 29 to 38 inches wide. It has a height of 28 inches.
We liked this pressure-mounted gate because it is easy to install on doorways and other pass through areas. To ensure a safe and correct installation, it is fitted with an easy-read indicator that turns red notifying you that it is time to readjust. This is one of the best features that other pressure-mounted baby gates do not have.
This Safety 1st walk thru gate features a simple one-hand release that allows adults to operate it using one hand. Even better, there is a dual-action handle remains difficult for your little one’s fingers to release and open. The gate also features magnetic latch that ensures it swings closed then locks automatically.
- 2 gates included for a lower value price
- Quick & Easy install: Visual red/green indicator lets parent know gate is installed securely
- Tool-free design makes install easy and quick. 29- 39 inches wide (includes 2 extensions). 28 inch high. No Assembly Required
- Easy for me to open, tough for my tot: Adults can easily open using one hand, while the two-action handle remains tough for little fingers to rele
If you are interested in a baby gate with clear plastic, you can try the Qdos Crystal Designer Baby Safety Gate. It is hardware mounted for optimal safety, stands 30.7 inches in height, and fits openings that are between 29.5 and 39.8 wide.
Where to buy
Do you live in Canada, the US, or the UK among other regions, and are looking for the best plastic baby gates? From plastic baby gate with door to clear plastic options, you can check their price on Amazon using the links we provided above. These plastic baby gates are also available in other online stores such as Walmart, eBay, and Target among others.

Sandra W. Bullock is a grand-mom to two boys and is part of the review board here at Motherhood HQ. 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