Baby Gate Safety Tips

Baby safety gates are important for any family that has a little one who likes to explore the house. Protecting your baby is priority number one, but with that said, there are some safety tips to keep in mind when getting a baby gate.

Baby Gates For Stairs Safety Tips

1. Always install a hardware mounted gate at the top of any stairs. A pressure mounted gate does not provide the strength needed to protect your child. It may come loose and create a dangerous situation.
   
   
2. Follow all instructions and be sure that the hardware is securely anchored into your walls. Some gates include screws that barely go into the stud. You may need to use larger screws to be safe.
   
   
3. Be careful in using any baby gate at its widest extension. Consider buying an extension instead.

General Baby Gate Safety Tips

1. Always use baby gates that are certified for safety. Many older models are not certified and could potentially be dangerous.
   
   
2. Never use an accordion style baby gate. Although rare, these gates are known for pinching fingers and skin, as well as being used as ladders in the half-holded position.
   
   
3. Once your child is over 36 inches tall, discontinue using the gate. Baby gates should never be less than three-quarters of your child’s height. Anything less and it could lead to a child falling over the top of the gate.
   
   
4. Buy a baby gate with only vertical slats. Horizontal slats, rarely made today, can be used for climbing over the top.
   
   
5. Pressure gates should be installed with the lock release on the opposite side you are protecting.