15 Best Baby Gates for Stairs in 2021
Babies are bouncy and agile creatures. Most often, they decide to move in such a direction, where they may face many difficulties and obstacles. That has become a special problem today, when many families prefer to have two-level housing, considering both private houses and apartments. Almost all modern cottages and townhouses have two floors. This arrangement of rooms makes the structure compact, providing a large living space.
The best option to protect your child from dangerous falls down the stairs is to buy a baby gate that will secure your little one and fit into your interior. Such baby gates are common in today's market and are presented in huge numbers, so it’s easy to confuse which one you should choose.
The baby gate for stairs is designed specifically to keep young explorers from getting into dangerous situations. A clever solution is to place the gate: at the kitchen entrance (too many hot, sharp things and chairs), in any room with a fireplace, and assemble a stair gate on the top and the bottom of the stairs.
As soon as the baby starts crawling, a strategically placed toddler stair gate will make your life a little easier. The baby will be safer and kept away from potential hazards such as stairs, pools, or fireplaces. Child safety gate for stairs is often also used for keeping your pet away from fragile items in your household.
Children's safety gates for stairs are designed for babies from six months to two years of age. As soon as a child learns how to open the door or climb over it, it is no longer considered a safety device.
How to Pick a Proper Baby Gate
Keeping an eye on adventurous infants can become a struggle even for experienced parents. You can make life a little simpler by adding a convenient baby gate to keep juniors from coming down the steps. Although remember, this is not a replacement for adult supervision.
It is also recommended to install similar constructions in order to limit children's access to the fireplace, various fragile objects, balcony doors, and to protect children from pets.
There are several different types of room protection gates to choose from, so, before considering buying one from the best top of the stairs baby gate, first of all, it is better to find out what item would be the best option for your particular space.
Metal-manufactured gates produce quiet shades. Wooden gates keep natural color and structure. Plastic and fabric variants are more expressive and bright. Fittings and fixing elements should also match the design of the gate structure.
What are the features of the right toddler stair gate?
- A good safety gate is easy to install, easy to remove, and transport
- A significant advantage is the door stopper. It is better if the door closes as quietly as possible
- It is necessary to install protection on stairs from above and below
- For safety reasons, a gate with three steps of fixing or more should be chosen
Editor’s Choice
We have picked the best baby gate designed specifically for the stairs as well as multifunctional options. Such model versions are typically not fitted with a step-by-step rail because that can be a danger unless it is built with banisters. Such gates are also equipped with a door stopper; thus, the door doesn't fall over the steps.
We have included plastic, fabric, and metal choices with intuitive installment systems that ensure your children (and clumsy pets) are always protected. So, here are the best top of stairs baby gates you can find on the market today.
* grading scale out of 5 from Amazon at the time of publication
1. Cumbor 51.6-Inch Baby Gate Extra Wide
Why we choose it
The Cumbor wide baby gate for stairs have different designs and measurements so that children do not open them, but they are easy for opening and closing for adults. This is one of the most popular models and the best baby gate for stairs in 2020, according to the buyers’ reviews.
What parents say?
Nice gate
We got this gate to prevent our baby from going up the stairs and to give us a piece of mind as we let him crawl around the floor. It's really easy to install and fits my stairs perfectly (we removed the extension). I like that after you open it and let it go, it locks itself. My gate upstairs does not have this feature and now that I have it with this gate, I definitely noticed the difference; it is of much help when you're caring a 25 pound baby.
Verdict
The Cumbor baby gate will keep your child away from your house's hidden hazards: it is ideal for difficult stairs that the baby can climb up and down, kitchen, laundry room, and other potentially dangerous spaces the baby can reach accidentally. This gate is one of the most prominent items in terms of design and price. The upper edge of the protective structure should reach the middle of the child's chest at most. If the line is lower, there is a danger that the child will be overhanging on the other side of the fence.
- stylish and beautiful
- price
- the material is sturdy but not too heavy
- it will close automatically if not opened more than a 90-degree angle
2. LEMKA Safety Baby Gate for Stairs
Why we choose it
LEMKA presents a pressure-mounted gate that does not require equipment or tools to be installed and mounted easily on doorways or other areas. Its super-wide construction can be used for stairs of different measures and designs.
What parents say?
Works great! Stable and sturdy.
It is easy to install and working perfectly as expected. The toddler is not able to open it but can learn to lift up to lock it. It makes the stairs much safer. Another nice feature is that it opens two ways, push out or pull back, which is convenient. It is very stable after installed and fixed, even the kids shake it often. Great product!
Verdict
LEMKA gate is very easy to assemble and install. The gate is sturdy, not too heavy and not too lightweight. They are difficult to tip over, which is especially important at the top of the stairs. It is suitable for very active babies who are always ready to face the challenge and open any door in their way.
- baby can learn to lift up to lock it but cannot open it
- it opens two ways
- modern design
- a little loud when opening and closing
3. Safety Baby Gate Auto Close Features by KINGMAZI
Why we choose it
The safety lock and four wall cups make the gate easy to install and adds security. Suitable for a family with children and pets.
What parents say?
Stable baby gate! High quality
Very high quality baby gate. Its locking mechanism is smart so that little ones cannot open on their own. It has an option to remain open or it can also shut off on its own. It’s heavy and stable, I’m very content
Verdict
The KingMazi baby gate is very easy to install, it doesn't trim the wall. The gate is sturdy for stairs with a railing, so you don't have to worry about the baby pulling down the gate. It is also safe for your curious little ones, as it contains no sharp edges and dangerous elements.
- no sharp edges
- A dual locking system
- easy to install
- no drilling necessary
- not good for 38-inch' applications
4. Toddleroo by North States 3-in-1 Metal Superyard 198
Why we choose it
The 3-in-1 Metal Superyard is powerful and trustworthy – a portable playpen, a baby gate, or a protective shield. It works well on carpet and hardwood floors without any scratching.
What parents say?
Mommy’s sanity & safe play yard!
My son is a climber (he’s learning to walk and pulling himself up on everything) and I don’t have to worry about the set falling or coming apart. I can feel comfortable to be able to leave the room for a moment without an accident or mishap from an escaping little one or injury from something coming apart by little hands. It is a bit heavy when you add the 2 sections to make it 8. But, it gave him more room. When I transport it, I break it down into 2 parts. It is easily converted or broken down. I am so glad I decided to go with this product over the others. I plan to purchase another for use around my fireplace for safety and at the top of my stairs.
Verdict
The stand-alone extra-wide gate by the North States is set in seconds, and the swinging door panel has a child-resistant double locking system, making access easy and secure. With the help of this item, you can easily separate the area for any baby’s activities and be sure that your little one is protected.
- the color is very easy and goes with most home designs
- portable
- lead, VOCs, PVCs-free
- price
5. Dreambaby Chelsea Extra Tall Auto-Close Security Gate
Why we choose it
This gate is not like the typical plastic gates you see elsewhere. Dreambaby gate has an extra tall construction in comparison to other gates.
What parents say?
Great gate, and sturdy enough for a household of kids!
About the gate, its very well made and looks very nice, upscale if you will. Not like the typical plastic gates you see elsewhere (and all we had in the 90's it seems)
It self closes and securely locks each time.
This is very good at keeping babies in. Our youngest is one and even though he knows enough to stack stuff up to get up to the gate lock and try to open it (and he can move the latch back to try and unlock it) but because the gate requires a slight pick up on the door to open it, its just enough to extirpate his escape attempts.
We have one upstairs and one downstairs and they work great, very happy with these purchases and get complements all the time on them.
Key Features:
- Made of strong, high-quality materials
- Fits openings of 28”-32” and is 41" tall
- Easily installed
- Great for pets too
- Extra tall pressure mounted gate
- Allows for one-handed operation
- The EZY Check indicator
Verdict
It very easy for you to protect your children from any harm with Dreambaby Extra Tall Auto Cleared Gate. This attractive pressure vessel gate is easy to install with its auto-closing and double locking system. You can also choose the parameters from the versatile options presented by the company.
- suitable for stairs
- contains additional extensions for wider spaces up to 111’’
- the gate allows for one-handed operation
- feels arthritic to open
6. Summer Infant Multi-Use Deco Extra Tall Walk-Thru Gate (28.5 - 48 Inch)
Why we choose it
The Multi-Use Deco Extra Tall Walk-Thru gate can be used in rooms to comfortably and conveniently keep your child or pet safe.
What parents say?
It’s a stunner
I wanted an gate that wasn’t the ”typical metal gate” and came across this. It matches with my decor and doesn’t make me hate the whole process of baby proofing right now! It’s super sturdy and I love the fact that it can open like barn doors or swing open. Win win!
Key Features:
- Super sturdy
- Metal
- Removable door stopper
- Available in Beige or Bronze
- Hardware is included
- Included door stopper
Verdict
This attractive metal gate is adjustable enough to accommodate most door openings and stairways. Hardware is included for extra secure mounting as well as a special pressure mount for a safe installation that doesn’t leave marks on walls. This gate is suitable for kids up to two years old, due to its super sturdy construction which is not always easy to open, even for adults.
- price
- age range: 6 months to 2 years
- the gate is a little difficult to open
7. Munchkin Easy Close XL Metal Baby Gate, 29.5
Why we choose it
Munchkin's security gates are checked to a higher level of safety, and meet ASTM Voluntary standards. Every gate is JPMA approved and requires a one-year exclusive warranty. The company uses extremely durable steel components for the baby gate manufacturing.
What parents say?
Durable!
I have 3 boys, 3 dogs, and a pet pig. I’ve been through A LOT of baby/pet gates. This one is by far my favorite and the most durable. I own two of them! We have a fairly open floor plan so the fact that this gate can fit just over a 51” wide space right out of the box is even better! It’s fairly easy to assemble and goes up even easier. You can lock it shut at the bottom or latch it so the gate only swings open one direction.
Key Features:
- Easy to assemble
- Gate only swings open one direction
- 29.5 inch - 51.5 inches wide
- Made from strong steel material
- JPMA Certified, 1 year limited warranty
- U-shaped steel power frame
- Optional third lock
Verdict
Manchkin presents one of the most durable options for child safety gates for stairs. You can control which way the gate opens. Due to the materials used, its installation can take time, and it is not flexible in terms of transporting and rearranging.
- optional third lock
- the installation takes a lot of time
- cannot be considered as a pressure gate
8. Regalo 56-Inch Extra WideSpan Walk Through Baby Gate
Why we choose it
The WideSpan gate satisfies all of the requirements of an all-stain construction, quickly sits on either a pressurized mount or a wall mount, and can be adjusted to between 29-56 "wide to accommodate door openings.
What parents say?
Great gate
We have a wide door opening where we were intending to install this gate (46.5 inches), and I was sceptical about the stability. However, after the gate was installed and tightened, it is rock solid even when our athletic toddler sometimes tries to shake or pull it. I also used additional non-skid pads and I recommend getting them, as well as they increase the gate stability.
Key Features:
- 1, 4, 8 and 12-inch extension kit
- Fits openings between 29-56 inches wide and stands 30 inches tall
- Four wall cups with screws
- Metal
- Certified to both JPMA and ASTM standards
- Easy pressure mount set up
- All-steel construction
Verdict
This item is the best option for those who rent an apartment or house, and therefore need a pressure-mounted gate to fit the span -when drilling into the door frame is not an option. This gate seems to do the trick. Without locking it, the door is easily opened with one hand; with the lock, it's a little harder to do so but still possible with some practice.
- the locking feature is great
- one extension combo is too short
- mounts are extended, and they bow when pushed on
9. KingSo 80 inch Auto Close Baby Gate Super Wide Safety Gate
Why we choose it
KingSo is a well-known professional supplier with a focus on household lighting products and furniture. The quality certificate means that the gate meets the strict safety standards of the manufacturers of products for minors.
What parents say?
Well made baby gate
I ordered this gate to keep my 15 months old boy out of the stairs. Easy to install it. It works well as he is tall for his age . This gate is constructed of solid materials, if you mount it securely even baby Hulk should be kept safe. I do recommend it to everyone.
Key Features:
- 80 Inch wide
- More safety with a double-lock
- Panels can be removed according to your request, or foldable for easy storage
- For doorways, hallways, the bottom of stairs, kitchens, laundry rooms, bedrooms and playrooms
Verdict
If you have a very large opening at your place, consider choosing the KingSo safety gate. Being not so sturdy, it can cover enough space to separate and protect your kids from falling down or touching any dangerous items.
- easy to install and use
- not sturdy enough
10. Summer Infant Extra Tall & Extra Wide Safety Gate
Why we choose it
The Summer Extra Tall & Wide safety gate fits extra-wide openings and can extend to 53 inches in width.
What parents say?
Best solution for banister-to-banister (with a little adaptation)
I absolutely love this gate! I ordered 4 other gates and returned them all before finally finding the perfect solution for our stairs. I wanted gates for the top and bottom of our stairs that could be attached banister-to-banister without having to drill holes into the woodwork. I purchased banister adapters from dream baby (available on Amazon) so we could use these gates. They stay put beautifully, match our decor, work well, and are very safe and secure. I am so happy with this purchase!
Key Features:
- Cool gray frame designed for extra-tall & Wide openings
- Includes 3 extension frames
- 29.5" - 53" Wide
- Auto-close
- Stands extra-tall at 38 inches
Verdict
This is one of the most appropriate options of baby gates for stairs with banisters that has a self-closing feature and a hold-opening mechanism to keep the door open when required. The best solution for banister-to-banister (with a little adaptation). This is one of the best gate options on the market in terms of the height of the gate - it is suitable for tall babies.
- both mount options included
- solid metal material
- it closes loudly
11. Cardinal Gates Stairway Angle Baby Gate
Why we choose it
Cardinal baby gate stands out from the crowd, considering its unique characteristics as well and the fact is that 82 percent of clients have scored it four or five stars.
What parents say?
Love these gates
I have 3 and personally assembled and installed all of them myself. We have two indoor (white) and one outdoor (the outdoor one specifically and black). I love how easy they are to get up and to operate. It confuses adults at first because the latch is different than most, but once told really easy. Our 4 year old can open it (using two hands) no problem AFTER being shown how. I feel very confident in these gates and their safety. It keeps our 1 year old where he should be and even with a 50 pound dog jumping on it it doesn’t budge.
Key Features:
- A maximum safety gate designed for the top of a stairway
- Width is adjustable 27"-42.5 Height is 29.5"
- “Stop-bracket” option
- Sturdy
- Made from lightweight aluminum in a powder-coat finish
- Available in wooden design
Verdict
This is a gate that can be mounted at up to a 30 degree angle, particularly at the top of the steps. It can be adjusted in width and is also suitable for smaller spaces. One of the best solutions for one-bedroom apartments.
- closes securely
- noisy
12. ALLAIBB Walk Through Baby Gate Auto Close Tension 57.5-62.2
Why we choose it
That is one of the top-selected items for narrow doorways and small stairs.
What parents say?
Perfect gate for narrow doorways
We love this gate! It’s exactly what we needed for a narrow doorway. It was easy to assemble, it’s easy to use, and sturdy. Very happy with this purchase.
Key Features:
- Durable Design
- Extensions are Multi Use
- Easy to Install
- Enough sturdy to bear the impact of 180 pounds
- Double-lock safety
Verdict
The ALLAIBB’s baby gate is easy to install and extends to fit many home spaces. The adjustable gate fits openings from 24.2'' to 71.7''. It includes tension pads to avoid the baby gate damaging your wall and tension knobs to hold it in place. It handles up to 180 pounds, and, therefore can be used for big and tall babies.
- wide gate
- doesn't always stay closed if you put any pressure on it
13. Retractable Safety Baby Gate - Extra Width
Why we choose it
The retractable baby gate is pulled out at 360°, so you can not only move it left to right. You can, therefore, lock the gate in every way. This item has outstanding fabric design that is complemented by the sturdiness of the gate.
What parents say?
SO CONVENIENT and easy to install
I finally got around to installing this today with my mother in law- it was super easy! It seems really sturdy, and I'm really excited to use it to keep my baby contained without using a door- I had several other gates but this one is the best because it doesn't block the hallway and make it hard to walk around. It also is retractable, which is super convenient. The other ones I have either I have to swing the gate and latch it or it's not retractable so it just hangs. This is by far the nicest kind. It's a little pricey, but it's very convenient and helpful.
Key Features:
- Retractable
- Easy to install
- Extra Wide Retractable Gate - 70.8 Inch Width
- Press a Button Technology
- Comes with toggles and screws needed for drywall installation
- Sturdy
- Quality fabric
Verdict
The supplier provides an extra set of hardware for this product. We consider it is great because you're able to move it between different rooms as needed. It's easy to install and can be used even with one hand. The gate can be very useful for kid’s bedroom.
- package
- design
- price
14. Giantex 30-inch Walk Through Safety Gate for Baby
Why we choose it
This 180-degree two-way opening gate is made to isolate your baby from dangerous places such as stairs and kitchen.
What parents say?
Easy to install and use
Love this gate. Installation was a breeze and it is easy to open and close.
Key Features:
- 180° Two-way Opening Gate:
- Easy to Install & Protect Your Wall
- Suitable for Many Places
- Press a Button Technology
- Paired with a decorative white finish
- Environmentally friendly paint
Verdict
This product is a multi-functional item suitable for different spaces. It will be a good solution for eco-friendly families because the manufacturer uses safe eco paints in gate production. This item is also remarkable for the “press a button” technology of gate opening.
- Certified to both ASTM and EN1930 standards
- hard to open
15. Bonnlo Configurable Walk-Through Baby Safety Gate
Why we choose it
The Bonnlo Baby Gate has an all-steel construction and has four wall brackets so that your children are safe within the confined area. It is one of the most solid baby gate items in terms of design and materials used for its construction.
What parents say?
nice gate
We installed the gate to block off our stairway from our grandchildren. It is was moderately easy to assemble and seems sturdy, but I do worry that if the kids start pulling on the gate that it may come out of the wall.
Key Features:
- Configurable
- Easy to set up
- Versatile designs
- Constructed of strong steel and food-grade plastic
- For 74 inches wide openings
- 29 inches tall
- Sturdy construction
Verdict
The Bonnlo Baby gate item is suitable for house-owners and families who have many kids. It is convenient to use in large rooms and outdoor spaces. Its sturdy construction can handle a solid amount of pressure.
- panels are metal
- takes up a bit more space than other items
Conclusion
As you can see, there are many options for protective child gate items on the market. Of course, keeping your child safe is priority number one. But also consider the cost, convenience, and design (yes, there are built-in security gate styles that will fit your decor!)
It is extremely important to get the right type of safety gate for every place in the house. Those items that are used at the top of stairs, both inside and outside, must be installed with hardware. Pressure gates can be used at the bottom of the stairs and between rooms.
It is better to buy safety gates for kids with a margin of height, otherwise, after one to two years gate will have to be replaced because it will not meet the requirements.
Caring for the health of the child is the responsibility of parents. And if there are stairs in your house or apartment, the purchase of a protective gate becomes a mandatory issue.