Features

Gate safety depends on solid construction, reliable hardware, and the absence of entrapment hazards. Here are the important safety gate features to consider.

Height

To discourage an adventurous child from climbing over, a gate must stand a minimum of three-quarters of the child's height. Most gates measure 22 inches or more from top to bottom. If your child is tall for her age, go with a higher gate. Some stand as high as 39 inches. Generally, though, when a child is taller than 36 inches or weighs more than 30 pounds (usually at about 2 years of age), a gate is no longer adequate or safe.

Installation flexibility

Many gates can be mounted to odd areas, such as stair balusters, angled banisters, and into drywall where there is no wood framing behind it. (But you might have to purchase a specific installation kit for these areas. One company has an installation kit for mounting its gates to wrought iron.) Some gates also adjust to fit irregularly shaped or very wide areas. Some hardware-mounted gates can be slid out of their wall mountings, which is a bonus when, say, you're entertaining and don't want the gate in the way.

Latches

Many gates have a dual-action latch that can be opened with one hand by an adult. Try different types of latches in the store to make sure that they're easy to use, if possible. A gate with a squeezing mechanism opens by compressing parts of the gate, but this type of latch can be difficult to use, so be sure to test it in the store. Another option is a pressure-release handle, which can be lifted with one hand to open the gate. Some models have a foot pedal that requires strong pressure to release.

Some models unlock at the push of a button on a wall console. To open the gate, you won't have to put your baby down; that's a plus. But you still have to push the gate open (your knee can do the job) and close the gate manually. One 9-volt battery for the wall console or four C batteries for the gate module are required (not included).

Sound and color

Many gates audibly click when they're shut, signaling that they're doing their job. A gate we tested took it a step further by sounding an alarm if the gate is tampered with or not closed (adults can deactivate the alarm). Other gates use visual cues to do the job--for example, a color indicator showing when the gate is locked.

Let there be light

At least one model we know of features a motion-sensor night light that glows when you approach it--an added safety and convenience feature around stairs for when you're parenting on the night shift.

See also:

Strollers

Cribs

Play yards

Bouncer seats