Keeping kids in one place is like herding cats. Gates can help keep your toddlers off the stairs and out of trouble.
There are two basic types of child gates. Pressure-mounted gates don't take hardware to install and are easy to remove when the kids get older. Attached gates leave holes, which may not be appropriate in a rented home. Generally, attached gates are less likely to come loose and fall on the child.
Don't be lulled into thinking kids can't get past a gate. Kids are great learners and if they want to be free, they'll find a way. Child gates shouldn't be used in lieu of supervision.
KidCo Angle-Mount Safeway Gate
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This gate is removable for when the kids aren't in the house and fits angled openings up to 42.5 inches.
Summer Infant Sure and Secure Deluxe Wood Walk-Thru Gate
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This gate fits spaces up to 40.5 inches. It works just like metal swinging gates, but it looks better.
Summer Infant Metal and Wood Arched Walk-Thru Gate
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This pressure-mounted gate is stylish, which makes it easier to handle having a yard fence in your hallway. The gate swings open with one-handed operation.
Summer Infant Secure Surround Gate
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This freestanding corral is made of plastic, but will keep your kids in one place -- no walls needed.
Kid Kushion Retractable Deck Guard
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This retractable netting is to help keep kids on the porch rather than falling through the railings. Good for up to 16 feet.
North States Industries Super Gate V
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This expandable wall-mounted gate extends to fit up to 62 inch openings. It can be removed from its mounts when the kids aren't at home.
North States Industries Easy Open and Lock Gate
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This is a pretty wooden gate that installs without hardware and can swing open in either direction with one-handed operation. It can be removed when the kids aren't around and opens easily to allow adults to pass when the kids are home.
Evenflo SimpleEffort Plus Hands Free Electronic Gate
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Do you want to let the kids go in and out from across the room? This gate is remote-controlled -- definitely designed for dads. It's all metal and pressure-mounted without any tools.
