best baby gates for stairs

9 Best Baby Gates for Stairs: Top Picks for Safety-Conscious Parents in 2024

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When it comes to baby-proofing your home, installing baby gates for stairs is an essential step. These gates serve as a barrier that prevents your child from accessing the stairs, which can be a significant safety hazard.

After researching and testing several baby safety gates (and pet gates!) made for stairs, I’ve identified the top options that provide both safety and convenience for parents.

Whether you have a narrow or wide staircase, prefer a hardware-mounted gate or pressure-mounted safety gate, or want a safety gate made with additional features such as retractable baby gates, I’ve got you covered.

Read on to find the best baby safety gate for your stairs.

Top picks at a glance:
  1. Cumbor Baby Gate for Stairs
  2. Cumbor Auto Close Safety Baby Gate
  3. Regalo Easy Step Baby Gate
  4. EasyBaby Retractable Baby Gate
  5. Toddleroo by North States Easy Swing & Lock Gate Series 2
  6. Regalo Top of Stairs Gate
  7. Regalo 2-in-1 Extra Wide Stairway and Hallway Walk Through Baby Safety Gate
  8. Momcozy Retractable Baby Gate
  9. BABELIO Metal Baby Gate

How I chose my top picks

Safety and compliance standardsMy priority was to evaluate each baby gate against established safety standards. I looked for gates with reliable locking mechanisms, sturdy construction, and materials free from harmful chemicals.
Ease of installation and useRecognizing that convenience is key for busy parents, I assessed how easy each gate is to install and operate. I prioritized gates that require minimal effort to set up, with clear instructions and no need for extensive modifications to your home. Additionally, I looked for features like one-handed operation and auto-close functionality that make daily use hassle-free.
Versatility and adaptabilityUnderstanding that homes and staircases vary, I selected gates that offer flexibility in mounting and use. I also considered gates with adjustable widths and heights to accommodate different spaces.
Durability and designA gate’s ability to withstand the test of time—and the strength of curious toddlers—was critical in my selection process. I chose gates made from durable materials that can resist shaking, climbing, and wear. Additionally, aesthetic appeal was considered, as I believe safety solutions should also complement your home’s interior.

Why should you trust me?

With a background as an HCPC registered paramedic, my career spanning over a decade provided me with a deep understanding of safety precautions and emergency responses, especially in household settings where risks to children are prevalent. My professional journey has exposed me to situations that underscore the critical importance of proactive safety measures in protecting our youngest and most vulnerable.

Beyond my professional life, I am a mother of two. My experiences as a parent have informed my perspective on the necessity of reliable safety measures, such as baby gates, in preventing accidents and ensuring peace of mind.

My recommendations are rooted in a blend of evidence-based practices, personal experiences, and a genuine desire to support fellow parents and caregivers in fostering safe, loving spaces for their children. Trust in my guidance as we ensure the safety and security of our little ones together.

The best baby gates for stairs

Installing a baby gate at the top and bottom of the stairs can give you peace of mind and prevent accidents. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. To help you out, I’ve rounded up the best baby gates for stairs that are safe, sturdy, and easy to install.

1.

Cumbor Baby Gate for Stairs

5.0

If you’re looking for a reliable and durable baby gate for stairs, the Cumbor Baby Gate is a great choice. It’s easy to install and use, and it provides excellent safety for your little ones.

Pros:
  • Large and wide design fits most doors and makes it easy to walk through while holding your baby
  • Double-lock safety release makes it difficult for toddlers to open the gate
  • Durable steel design can withstand up to 150 pounds of impact, making it safe for both children and pets
Cons:
  • Installation distance must be within 29.7-46 inches, so it may not fit all doorways or staircases
  • The gate can be a bit difficult to open and close for some users
  • The white color may not match all home decor styles

1. Cumbor Baby Gate for Stairs

The Cumbor Baby Gate is a great choice for parents who want a reliable and safe baby gate for stairs. Its large and wide design makes it easy to use, and the double-lock safety release ensures that your little ones stay safe. The durable steel design can withstand up to 150 pounds of impact, making it safe for both children and pets. Installation is easy and can be done in just 10 minutes, but be sure to measure your doorway or staircase to ensure a proper fit. Overall, the Cumbor Baby Gate is a great investment for any family with young children and also doubles as a pet gate!

moms say

“This took less then 10 minutes to put up, it’s super sturdy, not hurting my door frame, strong/sturdy material (did the simple installation option without the screws needed), door stays propped open if push far enough or auto shuts behind me walking into the room. Exactly what I wanted/needed. Would definitely recommend!”

2.

Cumbor Auto Close Safety Baby Gate

5.0

If you’re looking for a durable, easy-to-install, inexpensive baby gate with a wide opening and a double-lock safety release, the Cumbor Auto Close Safety Baby Gate might be the perfect choice for you.

Pros:
  • Wide opening for easy access
  • Double-lock safety release to keep curious crawlers safe
  • Easy installation with no drilling required
Cons:
  • May not fit all openings
  • Pressure mounting may not be secure enough for all households
  • May be difficult to use for some adults

2. Cumbor Auto Close Safety Baby Gate

The Cumbor Auto Close Safety Baby Gate is a great option for parents who want a wide opening that won’t get in the way of adults in the home. It’s also a great choice for those who want a pressure mounted gate that’s easy to install without any drilling required. With its double-lock safety and quick release wall mount, it’s perfect for keeping curious crawlers safe.

If you’re looking for a safe and durable baby gate for stairs, doorways, or open spaces, the Cumbor Auto Close Safety Baby Gate is definitely worth considering.

moms say

“Looking for a good gate, look no further, this gate is very sturdy, easy to assemble, not to mention the brown blends in nicely with my home decor.”

3.

Regalo Easy Step Baby Gate

5.0

If you’re looking for a durable and convenient baby gate that’s easy to use and set up, the Regalo Easy Step Baby Gate is a great option for you.

Pros:
  • Expands to fit openings between 29-34 and 35-38.5 inches wide. Stands 30 inches tall.
  • Pressure mounted baby gate design that is quick to set up. Includes a 6-inch wide extension kit and 4 pressure mount spindle rods.
  • The all steel design is durable and convenient with a walk-through door. Includes multiple safety-lock features, four wall cups for added security and mounting hardware.
Cons:
  • Gate frame is designed to be assembled at all times, which may be inconvenient for some users.
  • Some users have reported that the gate latch and frame may appear bent before installation, but this is not a defect and is eliminated once installed.
  • The gate can only use a maximum of 3 extensions, which may not be enough for some users.

3. Regalo Easy Step Baby Gate

The Regalo Easy Step Baby Gate is a great investment for parents looking for a reliable and easy-to-use baby gate. Its adjustable design makes it perfect for doorways, hallways, and the bottom of stairs, and its safety features give parents peace of mind. The extra wide baby gate is also suitable for medium to large dogs, making it a versatile option for pet owners as well.

Installation is quick and easy, and the pressure mount design means you won’t have to drill any holes in your door frames or walls. The gate is also easy to remove from the opening for storage when not in use. The gate’s all steel design is durable and long-lasting, and the walk-through door makes it easy for parents to move through the gate with ease.

The gate’s safety features include a one-touch release safety lock, double locking system, multiple safety-lock features, and four wall cups for added security. The gate is certified to both JPMA and ASTM standards, reducing the risk of baby gate related injuries and giving parents peace of mind knowing their child is safe and secure.

moms say

“This gate was so easy to put up! Took 4 screws and 15 to 20 minutes to install. We bought another one because of the easy install and the gate is so easy to open. Out with the old gate and in with the new upgraded gate.”

4.

EasyBaby Retractable Baby Gate

5.0

If you’re looking for a sturdy and durable retractable gate that can be used indoors and outdoors, the EasyBaby Retractable Baby Gate is a great option. It’s perfect for keeping your little ones and pets safe and secure in your home.

Pros:
  • Can be installed at top and bottom of stairways, doorways, hallways, indoor and outdoor use with no tripping hazard.
  • Easy installation with included components: stainless steel screws, catch mounts, wall spacers, and installation guide templates.
  • One-handed operation to open and close the gate.
Cons:
  • Must be fitted between rigid surfaces such as plasterboard, timber, or hardwall.
  • Hardware mounted baby gate, so drilling is required for installation.
  • Mesh can be difficult to retract at times.

4. EasyBaby Retractable Baby Gate

The EasyBaby Retractable Baby Gate is a great solution for parents and pet owners who need a gate that can be used both indoors and outdoors. The gate is easy to install and can be adjusted to fit openings up to 55″ wide and is 33″ tall. The gate is also designed to be used with children from 6-24 months or small to medium pets.

One of the best things about this retractable baby gate is that it can be installed at the top and bottom of stairways, doorways, and hallways, making it a versatile option for any home. The gate is also easy to operate with one hand, which is great for parents who are carrying their little ones or other items around the house.

Overall, the EasyBaby Retractable Baby Gate is a great option for parents and pet owners who need a gate that can be used both indoors and outdoors. It’s sturdy, durable, and easy to operate, making it a great choice for any home.

moms say

“This gate is easy to install, fits odd angle openings, is super easy to operate and lock and the mesh is taut so it keeps kids where they need to be. I’m going to get another one for other parts of the house. Great product.”

5.

Toddleroo by North States Easy Swing & Lock Gate Series 2

5.0

If you want a sturdy and stylish gate that is easy to operate with one hand, the Toddleroo by North States Easy Swing & Lock Gate Series 2 is one of the best hardware-mounted baby gates for the top of stairs, hallways, or doorways.

Pros:
  • Heavy-duty metal construction with vertical bars that are difficult to climb for added safety
  • Extra security of the safety latch design
  • Matte bronze finish and durable steel construction make this gate stylish and dependable
Cons:
  • Requires drilling holes for installation
  • Not suitable for openings wider than 47.85 inches
  • Does not swing over the stairs when used at the top of the stairs

The Toddleroo by North States Easy Swing & Lock Gate Series 2 is JPMA and ASTM certified and designed to fit room openings 28.68 inches to 47.85 inches wide with bars that are 2 3/4 inches apart, making it safe for babies ages 6-24 months. The gate can be easily opened with one hand (ideal for when carrying a sleeping baby) by pressing the upper latch button with your thumb and lifting the latch spindle out of the cup, then pushing or pulling the gate open. When not in use, simply swing the gate out of the way. To remove and store your gate, press the button on the hinge cover and lift the gate up.

While the swinging gate requires drilling holes in two walls for installation, the heavy-duty metal construction and safety latch design provides added security for your little ones. The matte bronze finish and durable steel construction make this gate stylish and dependable, complementing any home decor. Overall, the Toddleroo by North States Easy Swing & Lock Gate Series 2 is a great choice for parents looking for a safe and stylish gate for their little ones.

moms say

“Love the fact that this gate opens both ways wide opening and easy open/close.”

6.

Regalo Top of Stairs Gate

5.0

If you’re looking for a sturdy and reliable baby gate to keep your little ones safe, the Regalo Top of Stairs Gate is a great choice. It’s easy to install and use, and it fits most stairway applications.

Pros:
  • Expands to fit stairways and openings between 29-43 inches wide
  • Durable all-steel construction with a walk-through door
  • Designed with safety-lock and meets all safety standards
Cons:
  • May require additional adapters for certain types of banisters or walls
  • Gate may be difficult to open with one hand
  • Gate may not be suitable for pets larger than small dogs

6. Regalo Top of Stairs Gate

The Regalo Top of Stairs Gate is a great option for parents looking for a sturdy and reliable baby gate. It’s easy to install and use, and it fits most stairway applications. The gate expands to fit openings between 29-43 inches wide, making it a versatile option for a variety of homes. The all-steel construction is durable and can withstand the wear and tear of everyday use.

The gate is designed with safety-lock and meets all safety standards, giving parents peace of mind that their little ones are safe and secure.

Overall, the Regalo Top of Stairs Gate is a great choice for parents looking for a reliable and durable baby gate. It’s easy to install and use, and it provides an added layer of safety and security for your little ones.

moms say

“This is a great sturdy baby gate that is very customizable. It’s the only gate we’ve been able to find that would fit our banister/wall combo at the top of our stairs.”

7.

Regalo 2-in-1 Extra Wide Stairway and Hallway Walk Through Baby Safety Gate

5.0

If you’re looking for a sturdy and convenient baby safety gate, to protect your little one from the dangers of stairs, the Regalo Top of Stair Baby Gate is a great choice. With its all-steel construction and easy walk-through door, this sturdy gate, is durable and convenient. Plus, it’s adjustable to fit openings between 24″-40.5″.

Pros:
  • Extra wide, perfect for stairways and openings between 24-40.5 inches wide
  • 2-in-1 design allows for use at the top or bottom of stairs, doorways, and hallways
  • Adjustable gate can quickly be removed out of the opening for easy storage
Cons:
  • Can only be hardware mounted, requires drilling holes
  • Gate only opens 90 degrees and counter-clockwise, may not work for all stair orientations
  • Latch only works on one side of the gate

7. Regalo 2-in-1 Extra Wide Stairway and Hallway Walk Through Baby Safety Gate

The Regalo Top of Stair Baby Gate is a great investment for parents looking to childproof their home. Its all-steel construction and safety-lock feature make it a durable and secure choice for children 6-24 months old. Plus, it’s great for pets too! Installation can be a bit tricky, as it requires drilling holes, but once it’s up, it’s easy to use and adjust.

Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and convenient baby gate, the Regalo Top of Stair Baby Gate is a great choice.

moms say

“Bought to keep my son from escaping to the living room in the middle of the night. Perfect. Easy to put together and up. Easy to use.”

8.

Momcozy Retractable Baby Gate

5.0

If you’re looking for a versatile and easy-to-use baby gate for your home, the Momcozy Retractable Baby Gate is a great option to consider.

Pros:
  • Double locking mechanism ensures safety for your child or pet
  • Retractable design saves space when not in use
  • One-handed operation makes it easy to use while holding your child or other items
Cons:
  • Installation can be challenging for some users
  • Gate may sag or droop over time
  • Lock can be stiff at times

8. Momcozy Retractable Baby Gate

The Momcozy Retractable Baby Gate is a great solution for families with children or pets who need to block off certain areas of the house. The double locking mechanism ensures safety and peace of mind, while the retractable design saves space when not in use. One-handed operation makes it easy to use, even when your hands are full.

While some users may find installation to be challenging, the gate is overall easy to use and adjust to fit your needs. Momcozy Retractable Baby Gate is a reliable and convenient choice for any household.

Overall, if you’re looking for one of the best versatile and easy-to-use retractable gates for your home, the Momcozy Retractable Baby Gate is a great option to consider.

moms say

“This is perfect for babies! They can still see you through it, you can open and close with one hand. Looks eye-pleasing and they can’t get their little fingers stuck. Worth every penny!”

9.

BABELIO Metal Baby Gate

5.0

If you’re looking for a sturdy and easy-to-install baby gate that can keep your little ones and pets safe, the BABELIO Metal Baby Gate is a great option to consider.

Pros:
  • Easy to install with included kit, no additional tools required
  • Auto-close function and dual locking design for added safety
  • Extra wide and tall to fit a variety of openings and protect children and small pets
Cons:
  • May not be suitable for very wide or irregularly shaped openings
  • Pressure mount may not work well on certain types of walls or surfaces
  • May require occasional adjustments to maintain a tight fit

9. BABELIO Metal Baby Gate

The BABELIO Metal Baby Gate is designed to be both strong and easy to use, with a sturdy all-steel construction and a walk-through door that can be easily opened with one hand. The gate is also extra wide and has extra tall gate top, making it suitable for a wide range of openings and spaces, from doorways and hallways to stairways and more. Additionally, the gate comes with a variety of extension kits and other accessories to help you customize the fit to your specific needs.

One of the standout features of the BABELIO Metal Baby Gate is its auto-close function, which allows the metal gate itself to close and lock automatically behind you as you walk through. This same auto close feature can be especially helpful if you have your hands full or are trying to keep pets or other small animals from getting through the metal gate. The dual locking design also provides added security, making it difficult for young children to open the gate on their own.

Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and versatile baby gate that can help keep your home safe and secure, the BABELIO Metal Baby Gate is definitely worth considering.

moms say

“I’ve bought several different baby gates from Amazon over the past year. This was by far the best out of all of them! Spend the money — get this baby gate!”

Buying Guide

When choosing a baby gate for your stairs, there are several factors to consider. One of the most critical things to keep in mind is the type of baby gate installation you need.

Types of baby gate

There are two main types of baby gates for stairs:

  1. Hardware-mounted and pressure-mounted: Hardware-mounted gates are attached to the wall with screws and are the most secure option.
  2. Pressure-mounted baby gate: Pressure-mounted baby gates are held in place by tension and are easier to install and move around.

Factors to consider when choosing a baby safety gate for stairs

  • The size of your staircase
  • The material of the gate
  • The height of the gate
  • Gate meets safety standards and regulations.

Choosing the best baby gates for stairs can be a daunting task, especially for first-time parents. Here are some essential factors to consider:

1. Safety Features

The primary purpose of a baby gate is to keep your little one safe. Therefore, it’s crucial to choose the right baby gate with safety features that meet your needs. Some of the best baby gates top safety features to look for include:

  • Secure locking mechanism
  • Sturdy construction
  • Smooth edges and corners
  • Non-toxic materials
  • Gates certified by the JPMA will have a sticker on their frame or packaging

2. Size and Fit

Before purchasing a baby gate, measure the width of your staircase to ensure that the gate fits correctly. Some gates are adjustable, while others are designed for specific sizes. It’s also essential to consider the height of the gate. A gate that is too low may not be effective in keeping your child from climbing over it. If your gate swings, make sure you install it to swing away from stairs or any other dangerous space.

3. Installation

The gate installation process can vary depending on the type of gate you choose. Some gates require hardware installation, while others are pressure-mounted gates. It’s crucial to choose a gate that you can ensure is installed correctly and does not damage your walls or banisters.

4. Style and Design

Baby gates come in different styles and designs, so choose one that matches your home decor. Some baby gates are made of wood, while others are made of metal or plastic – there are even some with an integrated tuning system.

5. Price

Baby gates come in a range of prices. While it’s tempting to go for a cheaper option, it’s important to remember that safety should always come first. Therefore, choose a gate that meets your safety requirements and fits your budget.

Conclusion:

Choosing the best baby gate for stairs is crucial to ensure the safety of your child. With the wide range of options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to pick the right one. However, by considering factors such as the type of stairs, the height of the gate, the material, and the installation process, you can make an informed decision.

I hope this guide has provided you with valuable insights and helped you in selecting the best stairs baby gate for your home.

Check out my post The Ultimate Babyproofing guide: a checklist for every room

FAQs:

Have questions? I have answers.

The ideal height for a baby gate for stairs is at least 30 inches. This ensures that the top of the stairs or gate is high enough to prevent the child from climbing over it.

Yes, there are baby safety gates made for stairs that do not require drilling holes. Pressure-mounted safety gates also are a good option for those who do not want to drill holes.

The best material for a baby gate for stairs is metal or wood. These materials are sturdy and durable, and they can withstand the weight of a child.

No, regular gates are unsuitable for stairs as they do not provide the necessary safety features. Baby gates for stairs are designed to be taller and have a locking mechanism that prevents the child from opening it.

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