Top baby safety gates to protect your little one
From the beginning of a parent's journey, your child's safety can feel overwhelming.
Amongst all the other safety concerns rattling through your sleep-derived brain, child-proofing your home can make you wonder….“Where do I even start?”
Baby safety gates are a really important step of child-proofing when your little one becomes a crawler. And whilst there seem to be a billion and one options (how’s a parent to choose?) we’ve compiled a lineup of some of the top-rated gates around.
Why baby safety gates are essential
Babies and toddlers are naturally curious, and while it’s important for them to explore, certain areas of your home become risky territory. Kitchens with hot appliances, steep staircases, and rooms filled with breakables can all be hazardous for a curious little crawler or walker.
This is where baby gates come in. They pop a barrier between your child and potentially dangerous areas, giving you peace of mind while your baby plays safely in a secure zone.
And while it might seem obvious, put gates at the top AND bottom of your stairs. Your baby might not crawl or climb now, but they will… probably when you least expect it. You’ll want to be prepared, and not catch them halfway up a staircase unsupervised.
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What to consider
Before you go on an ‘add to cart’ frenzy, there are a few things to bear in mind when choosing the right baby safety gate.
Type of gate: The three main types of baby gates are pressure-mounted, hardware-mounted, and retractable. Pressure-mounted gates are easy to install and move but are best for flat surfaces like doorways. Hardware-mounted gates are fixed to walls, making them ideal for the top of staircases. Retractable gates offer versatility and are great for wide openings (like an open kitchen) or areas where space is tight.
Size and fit: Get the right details beforehand. Measure the opening you need to block and choose a gate that fits securely. Ensure it’s tall enough, almost as tall as your toddler, to prevent them from climbing over.
Durability and design: The gate should be sturdy enough to withstand frequent use and the occasional bump from an active toddler. Look for gates made from durable materials like metal or high-quality plastic.
Safety certifications: Make sure the gate complies with Australian safety standards. Check for certifications that show the gate has been tested and meets safety guidelines.
Ease of use: A good gate should be easy to operate for adults (to avoid bad words when you’re just trying to go from the kitchen to the lounge) but still a few steps ahead of your kid. Look for gates with reliable locking systems that small hands can’t figure out.
Budget: While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option thanks to the #costofliving, a safety gate is an investment in your child’s well-being. Read reviews, compare prices, and choose a gate that fits both your budget and your safety standards.
Top-rated baby gates for different needs
Dreambaby Chelsea Auto-Close Gate
The Dreambaby Chelsea Auto-Close Gate is known for its durability and flexibility in terms of width and height. This baby gate is perfect for blocking off wider doorways or staircases, and its auto-close feature ensures that the gate shuts securely behind you.
The locking mechanism is designed to be child-proof while still easy for adults to operate with one hand. This gate is pressure-mounted, so no drilling is required unless you want extra stability at the top of the stairs.
Price: $89.99
Regalo Easy Step Walk Thru Gate
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly yet durable gate, the Regalo Easy Step Walk Thru Gate is a great option. Its adjustable design can accommodate different widths and is tall enough to prevent toddlers from climbing over. The sturdy steel construction helps it stand the test of time (and toddlers.)
Like the Dreambaby gate, it has a secure, child-proof locking system, and the door swings open in both directions for added convenience. This is an excellent choice for doorways or hallways.
Price: $74.15
Dreambaby Retractable Gate Xtra-Tall
If you have a wide or difficult space, this one could be your answer. It’s available in White, Black or Grey to keep things aesthetically pleasing, and can extend to 140cm wide. It also comes with mounting brackets and optional spaces to help align the gate if you need to attach it to a moulding or skirting board.
It’s easy for parents to use, but tricky for cheeky toddlers who might want to break into the kitchen for a snack while the hot dinner is on the stove.
Price: $49.88
Installing and maintaining your gate
Once you’ve selected the perfect gate (a job well done), see the safety checks through with proper installation and maintenance. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Follow manufacturer instructions: Always adhere to the installation guidelines provided by the manufacturer. Secure pressure-mounted options firmly to prevent them from being pushed over. For hardware-mounted options, ensure they are correctly fastened to the wall or door frame.
- Regular inspections: Over time, wear and tear can compromise the gate’s effectiveness. Regularly inspect your gate for any signs of damage or loosening, especially around the hinges and locking mechanisms.
- Maintenance tips: Keep your baby gate in good condition by cleaning it regularly and lubricating any moving parts to prevent stiffness. If any parts show signs of wear, replace them immediately to maintain the gate’s security.
- Professional help: If you’re unsure about installation or notice any significant wear that you can’t fix yourself, phone a friend! And by ‘friend’ we mean contact the manufacturer or a professional (hello Upwork).
Tips for buying baby safety gates
Good news – baby gates are readily available and kept in stock in most major retailers like Big W and Kmart, hardware stores like Bunnings, and baby stores.
Before heading out to make your purchase, remember to measure the space available and research what type of fixture will be best suited. Sometimes difficult spaces like the bottoms of unusual staircases, or open-plan laundries and kitchens might take a little research and lateral thinking before you find the product you need.
Wrapping up
Your baby starting to wriggle, crawl and even waddle are such exciting milestones – hence why we whip out the camera to catch shaky footage of us cheering them along.
With all the new places they’ll get to explore, there are some areas your baby isn’t quite ready for. So keep the joy of this chapter by taking the best safety precautions.
Whether you need to block off staircases, create a secure play area or use playpens, or simply restrict access to certain rooms, a quality baby gate offers peace of mind and added security as your little one explores their surroundings.
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