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Baby GatesHelping You Find the Best
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Baby GatesHelping You Find the Best
12 Best Baby Gates  [Tested and Reviewed]

12 Best Baby Gates [Tested and Reviewed]

Baby gates are essential if you have young children at home as they'll block off dangerous areas like a staircase or the kitchen. You should install a baby gate from the time your child is around six months old, when babies become more mobile. Brands like Regalo, Cardinal Gates, and North States offer both hardware mounted and pressure mounted gates, the two most common types. If you're a parent or a caregiver, you may be wondering which baby gates are most effective for keeping kids safe.

We rigorously tested 12 bestselling baby gates to recommend the best for you. mybest defines the best baby gate as one that stays firmly in place to prevent children from entering dangerous areas while allowing adults to pass through easily. We ranked the top-performing models, and we'll help you choose in our buying guide.

Last updated 02/29/2024
Vladimir Shvarts
Expert
Handyman
Vladimir Shvarts

Vladimir has over 35 years of experience in mechanical/manufacturing engineering and also doing handyman work for himself, his friends, and relatives. After retiring from an aerospace manufacturing company, he wanted to do something useful for people and decided to advertise his handyman skills. Since then, he has become an expert in installing baby safety products like gates and playpens, securing furniture to walls, and baby-proofing other items like cabinet doors and drawers.

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Alisa Bishop
Expert
Child Safety Consultant
Alisa Bishop

Alisa Bishop is the CEO and Founder of Safe Start Child LLC. Alisa is a Child Safety Expert with over 10 years of experience professionally baby-proofing homes in the Washington, DC area. A Tulane graduate, her company is developing a comprehensive resource center for child safety, which includes a curated e-commerce platform, DIY resources, and targeted safety information for families. Alisa is married with two daughters; they live in the Washington DC area with their mini golden doodle, Marley Smith.

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Margaret Howd
Expert
Childcare Service Provider
Margaret Howd

Margaret "Maggie" Howd has been a nanny for 12 years but has worked with children professionally for over 15 years. She received a Bachelor's degree in psychology but took many classes in child development in her school work. After undergrad, she was a preschool teacher for two years. She wanted to do more for children and got her Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. It was while obtaining her Master's degree that she fell in love with nannying. It took getting a master's degree for her to find her passion for helping families raise their children. She has been with her current family for seven years, and when you find parents you work in harmony with, nothing can be better. She truly loves her work!

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Kensuke Higuchi
Guide
Former baby gear sales; mybest Head of Baby Gear
Kensuke Higuchi

With six years of experience as an in-house sales representative for a stroller manufacturer, Kensuke has extensive experience and knowledge about strollers and European car seats. Accredited by the Japan Traffic Safety Education Association, he is a certified car seat instructor and is currently responsible for overseeing baby and children's products at mybest. Having verified over 300 childcare products, Kensuke uses his expertise to compare, evaluate, and report on the best products for parents to make life easier while raising their children. As a father of one himself, Kensuke understands the struggles and joys of raising a child.

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How We Tested the Products

We gathered the 12 bestselling Baby Gates and put them through rigorous testing.
  1. Baby Gate Performance

    1
    Baby Gate Performance

    We set our user satisfaction standard for an effective gate as one that prevents children from climbing over or unlocking it. We assessed each product using the following method:

  2. Stability

    2
    Stability

    Our standard for stability was a gate that doesn’t shift or come loose even when the child pushes or rattles it. Products were evaluated and scored as follows:

  3. Ease of Passage

    3
    Ease of Passage

    Our benchmark for high user satisfaction regarding ease of passage was a gate that allows adults to walk through even when holding a child. Each product was evaluated and scored based on the following criteria:

  4. Ease of Installation

    4
    Ease of Installation

    We defined the standard for ease of installation as a gate that can be set up quickly without complicated directions. Products were assessed and scored using the following method:

  5. Visibility

    5
    Visibility

    For visibility, a satisfactory level was defined as a gate that allows you to see a child's face and what they're doing from a distance. The testing and scoring were conducted as follows:

All product tests
were conducted in-house at mybest

Company Facility
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.The mybest team independently conducts its own tests to rank products.

Table of Contents

Where Should You Install A Baby Gate In Your Home?

Prevent Access to Dangerous Areas

Prevent Access to Dangerous Areas

Hazardous areas for children inside your home may include the stairs, the laundry room, the kitchen, and the fireplaceStairs can be a falling hazard, and fireplaces are a burn risk. The kitchen may expose young kids to open flames and sharp utensils, while children left unattended in a laundry room are prone to walking into the washing machine or ingesting detergent.


Installing a baby gate will ensure children stay out of these unsafe areas. It's recommended you use a gate from the time your child begins to crawl (at around six months old) until they're around three years old. when they can understand verbal commands.


Before buying a baby gate, first make sure you can install it in the area you want. Measure the size of the space, consider the shape of the gate, and ensure the walls or banisters where the gate will be mounted are structurally sound. Some areas of your home may have non-standard dimensions, which is all the more reason why you'll want to measure your space and check the specs of the baby gate you want before you buy it.


Please note that among the baby gates we tested, none were for use in front of a fireplace. If you're specifically considering a gate for a fireplace, please refer to our selection guidelines below.

Alisa Bishop
Child Safety Consultant
Alisa Bishop

It's also essential to check the strength of the walls or banisters where the baby gate will be mounted to ensure a secure fit. For instance, mounting in a location with only drywall and no studs could compromise the stability of the gate, resulting in a less secure installation.


Furthermore, adhering to the installation guidelines provided by the manufacturer is a crucial point for safe use.

How to Choose Baby Gates

Here are the points to keep in mind when choosing the best baby gates.
1

Select a Gate That Stays in Place and Keeps Kids From Getting Through

The first thing to check when choosing a baby gate is whether it can effectively prevent children from entering dangerous areas. Safety is paramount, so a thorough inspection is necessary.

Opt for a Hardware Mounted Gate That Can Withstand Impact

Opt for a Hardware Mounted Gate That Can Withstand Impact
There are two main types of baby gates: hardware-mounted gates that screw into place and pressure-mounted gates. We recommend the hardware-mounted type because it offers greater stability, ensuring the gate won’t shift or dislodge even with some impactIn tests using an 11-pound medicine ball, hardware-mounted gates did not budge upon impact.

In contrast, pressure-mounted gates tended to shift, and some even came loose under the same conditions. Since safety is the utmost priority during the active stages of a child's growth, opt for a hardware-mounted gate for the best results.

Alisa Bishop
Child Safety Consultant
Alisa Bishop

Although pressure-mounted gates rely on pressure against frames or walls for stability, they may loosen or detach from the wall over time, posing a risk of little ones getting through. For ultimate safety, a hardware-mounted gate is the best choice.


To prevent little ones from accessing hazardous areas, a hardware-mounted gate is the best choice.


Some may avoid hardware-mounted gates to avoid damaging their walls, but proper installation only requires drilling a few holes. Plus, you can consider fond mementos of your child-rearing years.

Gates Over 30 Inches High Are Harder for Children to Climb Over

Gates Over 30 Inches High Are Harder for Children to Climb Over

It's important that the baby gate is tall enough to prevent your child from climbing over it. Gates should be at least 30 inches high, which is three-fourths of the average height of children under four years oldYour child will be able to climb over lower gates as they grow, so choose a baby gate that's high enough to protect your child, even as they become taller and more mobile.

Top Safety Baby Gates

Top Safety Baby Gates

Undecided? Based on our safety tests, the following three products ranked the highest:


  • Dorel Juvenile Group - Safety 1st Ready to Install Gate
  • Smart Retract - Retract-A-Gate
  • Momcozy - Retractable Baby Gate
Vladimir Shvarts
Handyman
Vladimir Shvarts

To further ensure the safety of a product, check whether it's JPMA-certified.


JPMA certification involves testing each product against performance safety standards, and certified products will have a seal of approval.

2

Choose a Gate That's Easy to Operate Even with a Child in Your Arms

Since baby gates tend to remain installed for an extended period, typically from when your child starts crawling until they're around three years old, it's important that adults can pass through with ease. For areas of your home you frequently pass through in particular, choose a gate that's easy to operate.

Swing Gates or Sliding Gates Grant Smooth Access

Swing Gates or Sliding Gates Grant Smooth Access

When passing through a baby gate, there will often be times when you need to do so while holding a child or bags of groceries. 


Swing gates or sliding gates are ideal because they're easy to open and close, which makes for hassle-free passage even when your hands are full with a child or shopping bags.


On the other hand, fence-type baby gates require you to step over them, which can be difficult and even risky if you're carrying a child. For adults who are average height or shorter, a gate with a swinging door or slide mechanism will be much less challenging to maneuver.

Choose a Gate You Can Lock With One Hand

Choose a Gate You Can Lock With One Hand
Even among swinging door-style or sliding gates, ease of operation is another key feature to consider since locking mechanisms can vary. Gates you can lock or unlock with one hand are better because they allow for easy passage while you're holding a child. Locks that are complex or require grip strength to open can be inconvenient, requiring you to put down your child each time you go through the gate.

A Threshold-Free Design is Recommended for Added Safety

A Threshold-Free Design is Recommended for Added Safety

Gates without a threshold are easier to pass through. Gates with a bar at the bottom increase the risk of tripping, so seek a model that doesn't have a threshold, especially if you have elderly relatives living with you. Gates with a threshold bar can cause injury if you stumble while carrying a child or other items. Consider a gate that's easy for all family members to use over the long term.

Top Picks for Ease of Passage

Top Picks for Ease of Passage

When testing ease of passage, the following two products stood out for their thoughtful design:


  • Dorel Juvenile Group - Safety 1st Ready to Install Gate
  • Summer Infant Products - Deluxe Stairway Simple to Secure Wood Gate

When choosing a baby gate, safety is certainly important. However, you should also consider its ease of passage, especially if the gate will be placed in a high-traffic area of your home.

3

Good Visibility for Added Peace of Mind

Baby gates vary in material and design, affecting the size of the gaps through which you can see. Choose a gate that allows you to easily check on your child from a distance while you're busy with other tasks.

Fence-Like Designs Provide Better Visibility

Fence-Like Designs Provide Better Visibility

Gates with a fence-like design offer better visibility through their gaps. Being able to keep a watchful eye on your child through the baby gate will increase your peace of mind. Products with intricate designs or mesh walls tend to have smaller gaps and, therefore, less visibility, which might prompt you to stop what you're doing and check on your child more frequently. Choose a gate that makes it easy to check on your child while you're doing other things around the house.

4

For Diagonal Gates, Go With Retractable Mesh

You may want to install a baby gate in an angled space. In that case, retractable mesh gates are best as they're flexible enough for unusual spaces.

Mesh Gates Are Versatile and Can Be Mounted in a Variety of Places

Mesh Gates Are Versatile and Can Be Mounted in a Variety of Places

For angled areas, a retractable mesh gate is an excellent choice. The flexibility of mesh gates means the mounting brackets can be easily adjusted to fit various spaces. However, mesh gates can't be installed everywhere. Always check the maximum width range and note any limitations before buying.

5

From Here, Consider Your Design And Material Preferences

Since you'll be living with your baby gate for quite some time, you'll want something that looks good in your home. Safety and ease of passage are the most important points to consider but look for something that'll also blend in well with your aesthetic, too.

Find a Gate That Won't Disrupt The Ambiance of Your Home

Find a Gate That Won't Disrupt The Ambiance of Your Home
Choose a gate with a similar color to your walls or floors to help it blend in with your home's decor. Also, consider going with materials that match your desired aesthetic. 

Steel gates are best if you want a sleek look. They often come in simple designs, which helps if you don't want the gate to be a focal point of your room. For a natural look, seek wooden or fabric gates. The appeal of wood is that it's neutral so that it can blend in with your flooring. Fabric gates often come in monochrome colors and are less likely to disrupt your room's decor.

Was the Buying Guide helpful?

12 Best Baby Gates Ranking

Here are the best Baby Gates we found after testing them. We ranked them after weighting each of our testing specs.
Recommended
Price Performance
Sort
Filter
For Stairs
Doesn't Damage Walls
Products
Image
mybest Score
Click to purchase
Key features
Main Score
Details
Baby gate performance
Stability
Ease of passage
Ease of installation
Visibilty through gate
Mounting method
Entrance Type
Minimum installation width
Maximum installation width
Minimum age
Maximum age
Material
Self-closing feature
Door type
Top-of-stair mounting
Set contents
Width in use
Height in use
Release function
Height of floor bar
Includes ramp
1

Dorel Juvenile Group

Safety 1st Ready to Install GateGA110-S1-US-EN

Dorel Juvenile Group Safety 1st Ready to Install Gate 1
4.65

mybest's Top Choice: Sturdy, Easy to Install, and a Breeze to Pass Through

4.41
5.00
4.82
4.29
4.65

Screw-mount

Door

29 in.

42 in.

unknown

unknown

Alloy Steel

unknown

unknown

29 - 42 in.

30 in.

unknown

2

Smart Retract

Retract-A-Gate

Smart Retract Retract-A-Gate 1
4.45

Stays in Place and Easy to Walk Through, Even When Your Hands are Full

4.53
5.00
4.53
4.36
3.48

Screw-mount

Roll type

52 in.

72 in.

6 months

24 months

Reinforced polymer composite

Hardware-mounted universal mounting brackets x4, 2-inch long screws x8, finishing washers x8, installation guide

52 - 72 in.

38 in.

unknown

2

Momcozy

Retractable Baby Gate

Momcozy Retractable Baby Gate 1
4.45

Simple One-Handed Lock for Effortless Access With a Robust Design for Enhanced Safety

4.53
5.00
4.53
4.36
3.48

Screw-mount

Roll type

unknown

55 in.

unknown

unknown

unknown

unknown

unknown

54.33 in.

33.7 in.

4

Cardinal Gates

Stairway Special Safety Gate

Cardinal Gates Stairway Special Safety Gate 1
4.43

Firmly Fixed in Place and Offers Superb Visibility

4.53
4.82
4.41
3.57
4.65

Screw-mount

Door

27 in.

42.5 in.

unknown

unknown

Aluminum

unknown

Two-way door

unknown

27 - 42.5 in.

29.5 in.

unknown

4

Cumbor

Baby Gate

Cumbor Baby Gate 1
4.43

Smooth One-Handed Operation With a Convenient Auto-Close Feature

4.73
4.50
4.53
3.57
4.29

Screw-mount, Pressure-mount

Door

29.7 in.

40.6 in.

unknown

unknown

Carbon steel

Two-way door

unknown

29.7 - 40.6 in.

30.5 in.

unknown

6

Summer Infant Products

Multi-Use Decorative Extra Tall Walk-Thru Baby GateGA110-S1-US-EN

Summer Infant Products Multi-Use Decorative Extra Tall Walk-Thru Baby Gate 1
4.41

Has a One-Handed Lock and is Tall Enough to Prevent Escapes

4.65
4.50
4.53
3.75
4.05

Pressure-mount

Door

28.5 in.

48 in.

unknown

unknown

Metal

Two-way door

Gate Door, Gate Frame, Long Extension Frame, Short Extension Frames x2, Door Stop, Top Latch, Lower Latch, Extension Pins x6, Tension Bolts with Tension Nuts x4, Wall Cups x4, Adhesive Mounting Pads x4, Wall Cups x4, Wall Anchors x4, Screws x4, Wrench

28.5 - 48 in.

36 in.

unknown

7

Summer Infant Products

Deluxe Stairway Simple to Secure Wood Gate

Summer Infant Products Deluxe Stairway Simple to Secure Wood Gate 1
4.40

Effortless One-Handed Operation with an Escape-Proof Design

4.53
4.65
4.82
3.22
4.29

Screw-mount

Door

30 in.

48 in.

unknown

unknown

Wood

unknown

unknown

Gate, Support Foot Assembly, Precision Fit Template, One-Direction Stops x2, Hinge Brackets x3, Stopper, Top Latch Catch, Bottom Latch Catch, Support Foot Fasteners, Short Screw, Long Screws x8, Wall Anchors x8, Wrench

30 - 48 in.

32 in.

unknown

8

North States Industries

Toddleroo Easy Swing & Lock Gate Series 2

North States Industries Toddleroo Easy Swing & Lock Gate Series 2 1
4.38

Superb Visibility but a Hassle to Install

4.41
5.00
4.41
3.22
5.00

Screw-mount

Door

28.68 in.

47.85 in.

unknown

unknown

Alloy Steel

Two-way door

Mounting screws x10, Hinges x2, Upper latch x1, Lower latch x1, Allen wrench x1, Gate frame x1,Template x1, Swing control pick x1

unknown

31 in.

unknown

9

Evenflo Company

BARN DOOR WALK-THRU BABY GATE

Evenflo Company BARN DOOR WALK-THRU BABY GATE 1
4.20

Keeps Children Safe Inside but Hard to See Through

4.73
4.36
4.29
3.75
3.22

Pressure-mount

Door

29 in.

43 in.

unknown

unknown

Metal, Wood

Two-way door

Gate (gate and gate frame), Frame extension x2, Adjustment bumper x4, Extension pins x4, Mounting caps x4, Adhesive mounting pads x4, Wall anchors x4, Phillips head screw x4

29 - 43 in.

30 in.

unknown

unknown

10

Dorel Juvenile Group

Safety 1st Easy Install Walk-Through Gate

Dorel Juvenile Group Safety 1st Easy Install Walk-Through Gate 1
4.17

High Visibility Is a Plus but Not Easy to Access

4.41
4.50
3.93
3.66
4.29

Pressure-mount

Door

29 in.

38 in.

unknown

unknown

Metal

unknown

Two-way door

unknown

unknown

29 - 38 in.

28 in.

unknown

unknown

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1
Top Choice Baby Gates
No.1 in Stability
No.1 in Ease of passage

Dorel Juvenile Group
Safety 1st Ready to Install GateGA110-S1-US-EN

mybest Score
4.65
Baby gate performance
4.41
Stability
5.00
Ease of passage
4.82
Ease of installation
4.29
Visibilty through gate
4.65
View on Amazon
Safety 1st Ready to Install Gate 1
Lowest price
$81.56
Mid
Lowest price
$81.56
Mid
Mounting methodScrew-mount
Entrance TypeDoor
Width in use29 - 42 in.
Height in use30 in.

mybest's Top Choice: Sturdy, Easy to Install, and a Breeze to Pass Through

What we loved

  • Seamless installation process
  • Excellent visibility and stability
  • Easy for adults to walk through
  • Blends in with decor nicely

What we didn't love

  • Gate won't close on its own
The Safety 1st Ready to Install Gate from Dorel Juvenile Group is a steel hardware-mounted gate that'll blend in with most interiors. Installation is quick and straightforward. There’s no assembly required, so the gate can be mounted in just a few steps. At 30 inches, the gate is tall enough to deter children from climbing over, and the child-resistant lock reduces the likelihood of little ones getting it open. The gate stays in place with eight screws and a broad base that securely attaches to the wall. This will significantly reduce the risk of the gate becoming dislodged, even if your child bumps into it.

Ease of use is another highlight. This gate swings open from one side and has a lock you can operate with one hand, ideal if you're holding a child or carrying other items when passing through. The lack of a floor bar means there's no tripping hazard to worry about. Wide gaps between the bars give you clear visibility so you can monitor your child from a distance. A combination of top-notch safety, easy passage, and hassle-free installation makes this the best baby gate for most homes.

Minimum installation width29 in.
Maximum installation width42 in.
Minimum ageunknown
Maximum ageunknown
MaterialAlloy Steel
Self-closing feature
Door typeunknown
Top-of-stair mounting
Set contentsunknown
Release functionunknown
Height of floor bar
Includes ramp
View all
Was this Ranking helpful?
No.2
No.1 in Stability
No.1 in Ease of installation

Smart Retract
Retract-A-Gate

mybest Score
4.45
Baby gate performance
4.53
Stability
5.00
Ease of passage
4.53
Ease of installation
4.36
Visibilty through gate
3.48
Lowest price
$149.00
High
Mounting methodScrew-mount
Entrance TypeRoll type
Width in use52 - 72 in.
Height in use38 in.

Stays in Place and Easy to Walk Through, Even When Your Hands are Full

What we loved

  • Fits wide or unusual spaces
  • Very tall with a child-proof lock
  • Easy for adults to open

What we didn't love

  • Mesh can obscure visibility
The Smart Retract Retract-A-Gate is a mesh gate you can roll up when it's not in use. It fits openings up to 52 inches wide, and you can install it at an angle. This gate has a simple installation process, requiring no complex assembly and minimal steps to mount it. A 38-inch height plus a child-resistant lock will limit the risk of children either climbing over or breaking through. Secured with eight screws, the gate is sturdy enough to remain in place upon impact.

You can open the gate with one hand or allow it to retract automatically so you can walk through without hassle. This is particularly convenient if you're holding a child or carrying a lot of things at once. The lack of a bar at the bottom eliminates the risk of tripping. One thing to note: while the mesh provides an effective barrier, it may obscure your visibility to some extent. Despite that, this gate's safety features and user-friendly design make it a strong choice if you're shopping for one of the best baby gates.
Minimum installation width52 in.
Maximum installation width72 in.
Minimum age6 months
Maximum age24 months
MaterialReinforced polymer composite
Self-closing feature
Door type
Top-of-stair mounting
Set contentsHardware-mounted universal mounting brackets x4, 2-inch long screws x8, finishing washers x8, installation guide
Release functionunknown
Height of floor bar
Includes ramp
View all
No.2
No.1 in Stability
No.1 in Ease of installation

Momcozy
Retractable Baby Gate

mybest Score
4.45
Baby gate performance
4.53
Stability
5.00
Ease of passage
4.53
Ease of installation
4.36
Visibilty through gate
3.48
Lowest price
$39.99
Low Mid
Mounting methodScrew-mount
Entrance TypeRoll type
Width in use54.33 in.
Height in use33.7 in.

Simple One-Handed Lock for Effortless Access With a Robust Design for Enhanced Safety

What we loved

  • A versatile design so it'll fit most spaces
  • No assembly needed out of the box
  • One-handed lock for easy passage

What we didn't love

  • Mesh can be hard to see through
Momcozy's Retractable Baby Gate is a roll-away mesh barrier that can guard openings up to 55 inches wide, even in slightly angled spaces, making it a versatile choice. Setup is quick and hassle-free, with no assembly required out of the box and very few steps involved in the installation process. At 33.7 inches high with a child-proof lock, the chances of a child climbing over or slipping through are slim. The gate is mounted with eight screws for stability, ensuring it'll be strong enough to withstand impact.

The one-handed locking mechanism allows for easy passage, even when your hands are full. It also retracts automatically for added convenience. The lack of a bottom bar means there's no tripping hazard. However, the visibility through the mesh might be slightly compromised, which is a slight drawback. Nonetheless, with its safety features and ease of installation, it's one of the best baby gates out there. 

Minimum installation widthunknown
Maximum installation width55 in.
Minimum ageunknown
Maximum ageunknown
Materialunknown
Self-closing feature
Door type
Top-of-stair mountingunknown
Set contentsunknown
Release function
Height of floor bar
Includes ramp
View all
No.4

Cardinal Gates
Stairway Special Safety Gate

mybest Score
4.43
Baby gate performance
4.53
Stability
4.82
Ease of passage
4.41
Ease of installation
3.57
Visibilty through gate
4.65
Lowest price
$84.95
Mid
Mounting methodScrew-mount
Entrance TypeDoor
Width in use27 - 42.5 in.
Height in use29.5 in.

Firmly Fixed in Place and Offers Superb Visibility

What we loved

  • Hardware-mounted design keeps it firmly in place
  • Excellent visibility for monitoring kids from afar
  • No floor bar to potentially trip over
  • Meets JPMA quality and safety standards

What we didn't love

  • Installation may be a tedious process
  • Lock is fiddly for adults to operate

Cardinal Gates' Stairway Special Safety Gate is a hardware-mounted gate that meets the JPMA standards for safety and quality. Installation is somewhat tedious, though incredibly detailed, as you'll have to measure the desired location and attach the mounting brackets with tools. However, it's 29.5 inches high with a child-resistant lock, effectively minimizing the risk of children climbing over or breaking through it. Thanks to a hardware-mounted design that tightly grips it to the wall, it's unlikely to budge if anyone pushes or bumps into it.


One drawback is the lock, which isn't easy to maneuver with one hand. That could make passing through when holding your child a bit tricky. Fortunately, it doesn't have a floor bar, so you won't have to worry about tripping over anything. The highlight here is the wide gaps between the bars for excellent visibility. This will allow you to monitor your child from across the room.

Minimum installation width27 in.
Maximum installation width42.5 in.
Minimum ageunknown
Maximum ageunknown
MaterialAluminum
Self-closing featureunknown
Door typeTwo-way door
Top-of-stair mounting
Set contentsunknown
Release functionunknown
Height of floor bar
Includes ramp
View all
No.4
No.1 in Baby gate performance

Cumbor
Baby Gate

mybest Score
4.43
Baby gate performance
4.73
Stability
4.50
Ease of passage
4.53
Ease of installation
3.57
Visibilty through gate
4.29
Lowest price
$89.99
High Mid
Mounting methodScrew-mount, Pressure-mount
Entrance TypeDoor
Width in use29.7 - 40.6 in.
Height in use30.5 in.

Smooth One-Handed Operation With a Convenient Auto-Close Feature

What we loved

  • Tension-mounted so no need to drill holes
  • Slatted design provides plenty of visibility
  • Automatic lock prevents accidental escapes

What we didn't love

  • Beware of the 1.2-inch bottom bar walking through
  • Add the mounting hardware for more stability

Cumbor's Baby Gate is a tension-mounted product that offers an unobtrusive, simple design to blend with any decor. Installation includes positioning four adjustment bolts, which, while straightforward, involves multiple steps that may be time-consuming. At 30 inches tall, the chances of children climbing over are low. The lock is cleverly designed to be child-resistant, and the auto-close feature reduces the risk of accidentally leaving the gate open.


Stability tests showed that the gate stays firmly in place due to its gripping material and broad contact area with the wall. For best results here, use the mounting hardware. The gate opens in both directions and remains open if swung beyond 90 degrees, which is a nice touch. The ease of one-handed operation for the lock is a bonus, facilitating passage when you’re holding a child or carrying multiple items. However, the 1.2-inch bar at the base is something to be mindful of so you don't trip over it. The slatted design has wide gaps for good visibility, allowing parents to keep an eye on their kids from a distance.

Minimum installation width29.7 in.
Maximum installation width40.6 in.
Minimum ageunknown
Maximum ageunknown
MaterialCarbon steel
Self-closing feature
Door typeTwo-way door
Top-of-stair mounting
Set contentsunknown
Release function
Height of floor barunknown
Includes ramp
View all
No.6

Summer Infant Products
Multi-Use Decorative Extra Tall Walk-Thru Baby GateGA110-S1-US-EN

mybest Score
4.41
Baby gate performance
4.65
Stability
4.50
Ease of passage
4.53
Ease of installation
3.75
Visibilty through gate
4.05
Lowest price
$74.99
Mid
Mounting methodPressure-mount
Entrance TypeDoor
Width in use28.5 - 48 in.
Height in use36 in.

Has a One-Handed Lock and is Tall Enough to Prevent Escapes

What we loved

  • The 36-inch height will prevent kids from climbing over
  • Gate can swing in either direction
  • Child-resistant lock adds another layer of safety
  • Tension-mounted so you won't have to drill holes

What we didn't love

  • The 1.2-inch floor bar is a potential tripping hazard
  • Narrow gaps can make it hard to see through
  • Installation process is time-consuming

The Multi-Use Decorative Extra Tall Walk-Thru Baby Gate from Summer Infant Products has a tension-mounted setup and unique archway door design. Installation involves aligning and tightening four bolts against the wall, a process that wasn’t complicated but a bit time-consuming. The gate's 36-inch height is tall enough to prevent children from climbing over. Plus, the child-resistant lock adds an extra layer of security, significantly reducing the likelihood of children escaping.


The gate demonstrated solid stability and resistance to shifting due to its large contact area against the wall. We recommend using the mounting brackets to further increase its stability. The gate swings open in either direction and conveniently stays open when pushed past 90 degrees. It also sports a one-handed lock, which is useful when you're holding a child or carrying multiple items. However, the 1.2-inch floor bar could pose a tripping hazard. While the gate's slats provide some visibility, the narrower gaps can make it hard to see through at certain angles.

Minimum installation width28.5 in.
Maximum installation width48 in.
Minimum ageunknown
Maximum ageunknown
MaterialMetal
Self-closing feature
Door typeTwo-way door
Top-of-stair mounting
Set contentsGate Door, Gate Frame, Long Extension Frame, Short Extension Frames x2, Door Stop, Top Latch, Lower Latch, Extension Pins x6, Tension Bolts with Tension Nuts x4, Wall Cups x4, Adhesive Mounting Pads x4, Wall Cups x4, Wall Anchors x4, Screws x4, Wrench
Release function
Height of floor barunknown
Includes ramp
View all
No.7
No.1 in Ease of passage

Summer Infant Products
Deluxe Stairway Simple to Secure Wood Gate

mybest Score
4.40
Baby gate performance
4.53
Stability
4.65
Ease of passage
4.82
Ease of installation
3.22
Visibilty through gate
4.29
Lowest price
$75.99
Mid
Mounting methodScrew-mount
Entrance TypeDoor
Width in use30 - 48 in.
Height in use32 in.

Effortless One-Handed Operation with an Escape-Proof Design

What we loved

  • Sturdy and tall enough to keep kids inside
  • Lock is child-proof yet simple for adults to handle
  • Wide slats make it easy to view from a distance
  • No threshold to potentially trip over

What we didn't love

  • Installation may take a long time
  • May clash with some home aesthetics

The Deluxe Stairway Simple to Secure Wood Gate by Summer Infant Products is a hardware-mounted gate designed to blend seamlessly with wooden interiors. Assembly is required, and setup can be somewhat time-consuming. (You'll need to use a template to mark the wall and attach the mounting brackets with tools.) However, the 32-inch height and child-resistant lock greatly reduce the likelihood of kids managing to get around the gate. 


The gate is anchored securely with eight screws, so it feels solid even when you push against it. It's easy to pass through as it swings wide open from one side of the wall. There's also a one-handed lock for added convenience when carrying a child or multiple items. The lack of a threshold means you won't have to worry about tripping over anything. Visibility is another high point, with wide gaps in the slats offering a clear view to monitor children from afar.

Minimum installation width30 in.
Maximum installation width48 in.
Minimum ageunknown
Maximum ageunknown
MaterialWood
Self-closing featureunknown
Door typeunknown
Top-of-stair mounting
Set contentsGate, Support Foot Assembly, Precision Fit Template, One-Direction Stops x2, Hinge Brackets x3, Stopper, Top Latch Catch, Bottom Latch Catch, Support Foot Fasteners, Short Screw, Long Screws x8, Wall Anchors x8, Wrench
Release functionunknown
Height of floor bar
Includes ramp
View all
No.8
No.1 in Stability
No.1 in Visibilty through gate

North States Industries
Toddleroo Easy Swing & Lock Gate Series 2

mybest Score
4.38
Baby gate performance
4.41
Stability
5.00
Ease of passage
4.41
Ease of installation
3.22
Visibilty through gate
5.00
Lowest price
$64.99
Mid
Mounting methodScrew-mount
Entrance TypeDoor
Width in useunknown
Height in use31 in.

Superb Visibility but a Hassle to Install

What we loved

  • Adheres to JPMA safety and quality standards
  • Per our tests, this gate will not budge if bumped
  • Easy to walk through, even if your hands are full
  • Excellent sightlines for monitoring kids from afar

What we didn't love

  • A cumbersome installation process
  • Needs 10 screws to secure it in place

The Toddleroo Easy Swing & Lock Gate Series 2 by North States Industries anchors to the wall with screws, ensuring adherence to JPMA safety and quality standards. Regarding the ease of installation, we found that in addition to the assembly required after unboxing, there were several steps to follow such as marking the wall where the gate would be installed and using tools to secure the mounting hardware. Though we found the process time-consuming, it was well worth the effort. Plus, with a height of 31 inches and a child-proof lock, it's unlikely that little ones will get through this gate.


With 10 screws to secure it in place, our stability tests showed that this gate remains firm, even upon the stress of impact. This gate swings open wide from one side and has a one-handed locking mechanism, making pass-through a cinch even when your hands are full. The lack of a threshold is a bonus, eliminating a common tripping hazard. Visibility through the gate is excellent with its slim bars and wide gaps, allowing for clear sightlines that make monitoring children from a distance easy.

Minimum installation width28.68 in.
Maximum installation width47.85 in.
Minimum ageunknown
Maximum ageunknown
MaterialAlloy Steel
Self-closing feature
Door typeTwo-way door
Top-of-stair mounting
Set contentsMounting screws x10, Hinges x2, Upper latch x1, Lower latch x1, Allen wrench x1, Gate frame x1,Template x1, Swing control pick x1
Release functionunknown
Height of floor bar
Includes ramp
View all
No.9
No.1 in Baby gate performance

Evenflo Company
BARN DOOR WALK-THRU BABY GATE

mybest Score
4.20
Baby gate performance
4.73
Stability
4.36
Ease of passage
4.29
Ease of installation
3.75
Visibilty through gate
3.22
Lowest price
$114.99
High Mid
Mounting methodPressure-mount
Entrance TypeDoor
Width in use29 - 43 in.
Height in use30 in.

Keeps Children Safe Inside but Hard to See Through

What we loved

  • No need to drill thanks to tension-mounted design
  • Gate door swings in either direction
  • One-handed lock is simple to use

What we didn't love

  • Narrow gaps can make it hard to see behind the gate
  • Installation requires a lot of steps
  • The 1.2-inch floor bar can be a tripping hazard

The Barn Door Walk-Thru Baby Gate from Evenflo offers a tension-mounted design that easily complements wooden interiors with its natural wood construction. Installation requires fitting four adjustment rods into slots in the frame and tension mounting them to the wall—a process that's straightforward but involves a number of steps. The gate stands at an impressive height of 30 inches and boasts a child-resistant lock, which greatly diminishes the likelihood of kids getting over or through it on their own.


The gate is sturdy thanks to the large wall contact area, and the included mounting hardware will increase its stability. The door's ability to swing in both directions, combined with a one-handed locking mechanism, are convenient features that'll come in handy when your hands are full. However, make sure to walk over the 1.2-inch floor bar. One downside is the narrow gaps between the wooden slats, which can obstruct the view of the other side and make it difficult to monitor children through the gate.

Minimum installation width29 in.
Maximum installation width43 in.
Minimum ageunknown
Maximum ageunknown
MaterialMetal, Wood
Self-closing feature
Door typeTwo-way door
Top-of-stair mounting
Set contentsGate (gate and gate frame), Frame extension x2, Adjustment bumper x4, Extension pins x4, Mounting caps x4, Adhesive mounting pads x4, Wall anchors x4, Phillips head screw x4
Release functionunknown
Height of floor barunknown
Includes ramp
View all
No.10

Dorel Juvenile Group
Safety 1st Easy Install Walk-Through Gate

mybest Score
4.17
Baby gate performance
4.41
Stability
4.50
Ease of passage
3.93
Ease of installation
3.66
Visibilty through gate
4.29
Lowest price
$49.99
Low Mid
Mounting methodPressure-mount
Entrance TypeDoor
Width in use29 - 38 in.
Height in use28 in.

High Visibility Is a Plus but Not Easy to Access

What we loved

  • Excellent visibility for observing kids from a distance
  • Color-changing lock indicates time for maintenance
  • Tension-mounted so no need to drill holes

What we didn't love

  • Lock can be tricky to handle one-handed
  • Watch out for the 1.2-inch bar when walking through

Dorel Juvenile Group's Safety 1st Easy Install Walk-Through Gate is a hassle-free, tension-mounted solution that's designed for both safety and convenience. A color-changing indicator near the lock alerts you when it's time to retighten, taking the guesswork out of maintenance. The installation process involves inserting and adjusting four bolts to tension-mount to the wall, which wasn’t complicated but did take several steps. The gate's height is a solid 28 inches, complemented by a child-proof lock, minimizing the chances of adventurous little ones climbing over or slipping out. 


In terms of stability, the large contact area means it's less prone to shifting, and it comes with mounting hardware for added stability. The gate's dual-swing opening is a perk, but the lock mechanism can be challenging to operate with just one hand, which could be inconvenient when you're carrying a child or your hands are filled with bags. Additionally, there's about a 1.2-inch rise at the bottom, which could be a tripping point to watch out for. The gate scored high marks for visibility thanks to the wide gaps between bars. This allows you to easily keep track of children from a distance, a feature caregivers will appreciate.

Minimum installation width29 in.
Maximum installation width38 in.
Minimum ageunknown
Maximum ageunknown
MaterialMetal
Self-closing featureunknown
Door typeTwo-way door
Top-of-stair mountingunknown
Set contentsunknown
Release functionunknown
Height of floor barunknown
Includes ramp
View all
No.11

Regalo International
Easy Step Safety Gate

mybest Score
4.06
Baby gate performance
4.41
Stability
4.29
Ease of passage
3.75
Ease of installation
3.57
Visibilty through gate
4.29
Lowest price
$34.99
Low Mid
Mounting methodScrew-mount
Entrance TypeDoor
Width in use29-34 in. or 35-38.5 in.
Height in use30 in.

A Clever Child-Proof Design, Though Passing Through May Take Some Effort

What we loved

  • Meets JPMA's safety and quality standards
  • Very sturdy for a tension-mounted gate
  • Wide bars provide excellent visibility
  • Gate door can swing both ways

What we didn't love

  • The 1.6-inch floor bar is a tripping hazard
  • Lock is hard to handle with one hand
  • Proper installation will eat up a lot of time

The Easy Step Safety Gate by Regalo International is another tension-mounted product that's certified to the JPMA standards for safety. It's a product that assures quality and reliability. During installation, we noticed that despite a straightforward tension-mount setup involving four adjustment bolts, the need for tools plus the number of steps involved made for an arduous process. However, the gate stands 30 inches tall and features a child-resistant locking mechanism, significantly reducing the chance of kids climbing over or slipping through.


The stability test showed that although it's a tension-mounted gate, the larger contact area with the wall gave it some sturdiness. It comes with mounting hardware, which is a real plus for those who prefer a more secure installation. The gate's ability to swing open in both directions is convenient, yet the lock mechanism can be tricky to operate with one hand and poses a challenge when carrying a child or handling groceries. Also, a 1.6-inch threshold bar at the bottom poses a tripping hazard. In terms of visibility, the wide spacing between the bars is easy to see through, so you can keep an eye on little ones when you're tending to household chores.

Minimum installation width29 or 35 in.
Maximum installation width34 or 38.5 in.
Minimum age6 months
Maximum age24 months
MaterialMetal
Self-closing featureunknown
Door typeunknown
Top-of-stair mountingunknown
Set contents1 Regalo Easy Step Safety Gate, Instruction Manual, 6-inch extension kit x1, Pressure mounted spindle rods x4, Wall cups x4
Release functionunknown
Height of floor barunknown
Includes ramp
View all
No.12
No.1 in Ease of installation

Regalo International
Easy Fit Plastic Adjustable Extra Wide Baby Gate

mybest Score
3.43
Baby gate performance
3.57
Stability
3.57
Ease of passage
3.00
Ease of installation
4.36
Visibilty through gate
3.93
Lowest price
$23.99
Low
Mounting methodPressure-mount
Entrance TypeFence
Width in use28 - 42 in.
Height in use23 in.

Quick and Easy Setup Is a Plus, but Stepping Over Is a Minus

What we loved

  • Minimal setup needed
  • Rubberized contacts will limit damage to your walls

What we didn't love

  • Need to step-over the gate to pass through
  • It's 23 inches tall so babies will outgrow it quickly

The Easy Fit Plastic Adjustable Extra Wide Baby Gate from Regalo International is a tension-mounted gate you can install between walls or door frames. It features rubberized contact points to prevent wall damage, a thoughtful design meant to protect the interior of your home. We found the installation process quite easy. There’s no assembly required straight out of the box, just twist the adjuster to secure it in place. However, standing at just 23 inches high, there's a higher risk that children may climb over it as they grow taller.


When it comes to stability, the narrow contact area with the wall means it could shift from a strong impact. However, using the included mounting hardware can enhance stability, so relying solely on tension-mounting is not recommended. Note that you'll need to step over this gate, which we found inconvenient. You’ll need to lift your feet high enough to clear it. This may be a challenge for shorter individuals, especially if their hands are full.

Minimum installation width28 in.
Maximum installation width42 in.
Minimum age6 months
Maximum age24 months
MaterialPlastic
Self-closing feature
Door type
Top-of-stair mountingunknown
Set contentsunknown
Release function
Height of floor bar
Includes ramp
View all

How We Tested the Baby Gates

Baby Gates Evaluation

At mybest, we think the best baby gate is one that stays firmly in place to prevent children from entering dangerous areas while allowing adults to easily pass through.


To find the top baby gates, we rounded up 12 products from popular brands and bestsellers at Amazon, Walmart, and Target. We then subjected them to a thorough evaluation based on the following five criteria:

  • Baby Gate Performance
  • Stability
  • Ease of Passage
  • Ease of Installation
  • Visibility

Products we tested

  1. Cardinal GatesStairway Special Safety Gate
  2. CumborBaby Gate
  3. Dorel Juvenile GroupSafety 1st Ready to Install GateGA110-S1-US-EN
  4. Dorel Juvenile GroupSafety 1st Easy Install Walk-Through Gate
  5. Evenflo CompanyBARN DOOR WALK-THRU BABY GATE
  6. MomcozyRetractable Baby Gate
  7. North States IndustriesToddleroo Easy Swing & Lock Gate Series 2
  8. Regalo InternationalEasy Fit Plastic Adjustable Extra Wide Baby Gate
  9. Regalo InternationalEasy Step Safety Gate
  10. Smart RetractRetract-A-Gate
  11. Summer Infant ProductsDeluxe Stairway Simple to Secure Wood Gate
  12. Summer Infant ProductsMulti-Use Decorative Extra Tall Walk-Thru Baby GateGA110-S1-US-EN
1

Baby Gate Performance

Baby Gate Performance
We set our user satisfaction standard for an effective gate as one that prevents children from climbing over or unlocking it. We assessed each product using the following method:

Scoring Method

Testers checked each product and assigned ratings based on specific criteria to generate a recommendation score.

What We Checked

  • Gate height
  • Type of locking mechanism
  • Presence of an auto-close feature
2

Stability

Stability

Our standard for stability was a gate that doesn’t shift or come loose even when the child pushes or rattles it. Products were evaluated and scored as follows:

Scoring Method

Testers checked each product and assigned ratings based on specific criteria to generate a recommendation score.

What We Checked

  • Ability to hardware-mount the gate
  • Total surface area of the mounting apparatus against the wall
  • Number of mounting points on the wall
3

Ease of Passage

Ease of Passage

Our benchmark for high user satisfaction regarding ease of passage was a gate that allows adults to walk through even when holding a child. Each product was evaluated and scored based on the following criteria:

Scoring Method

Testers checked each product and assigned ratings based on specific criteria to generate a recommendation score.

What We Checked

  • Does it have a swinging door or retractable opening?
  • Can it be opened and closed with one hand?
  • Does it have a threshold bar at the bottom?
  • Does the gate come with a stay-open feature?
4

Ease of Installation

Ease of Installation

We defined the standard for ease of installation as a gate that can be set up quickly without complicated directions. Products were assessed and scored using the following method:

Scoring Method

Testers checked each product and assigned ratings based on specific criteria to generate a recommendation score.

What We Checked

  • Does it require assembly out of the box?
  • Are tools necessary for installation?
  • Is installation simple with few steps?
5

Visibility

Visibility

For visibility, a satisfactory level was defined as a gate that allows you to see a child's face and what they're doing from a distance. The testing and scoring were conducted as follows:

Scoring Method

Testers checked each product and assigned ratings based on specific criteria to generate a recommendation score.

What We Checked

  • Does the gate have a sufficient amount of gaps?
  • Are the gaps large enough to see through?

Top 5 Baby Gates

No. 1: Dorel Juvenile GroupSafety 1st Ready to Install GateGA110-S1-US-EN

No. 2: Smart RetractRetract-A-Gate

No. 2: MomcozyRetractable Baby Gate

No. 4: Cardinal GatesStairway Special Safety Gate

No. 4: CumborBaby Gate

View Full Ranking
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.

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