Are you on the hunt for the best baby gates for stairs 2024? This is the guide for you. If you’ve got stairs in your home then a baby gate is a 100% required piece of equipment. Even if you don’t, using the best baby gates for top of stairs 2024 in a stairless home is excellent for keeping babies and toddlers from dangerous situations when your back is turned.
There are tons of choices out there for the best baby safety gates and for this reason it can feel overwhelming to parents who are trying to find the safest option for their baby. That’s why we’ve written this guide – to help parents find the best top of stairs baby gate, baby gates for cheap, extra large baby gate for stairs or just to divide rooms.
Click here to see the top baby gate for stairs now!
This guide will walk you through all the features you need to know about to make an informed choice. We’ve compiled the top 10 baby gates that you can find online in Australia in a handy comparison chart, as well as written detailed reviews of each product.
Read our comprehensive article and you’ll be well on your way to finding the best rated baby gates for stairs for your needs.
Compare The Top 10 Best Baby Gates For Stairs Australia 2024
Product | Image | Fitting System | Open/Close Features | Fits Opening From? | Gate Height | Price | Features | Rating |
Dreambaby Chelsea Safety Gate and Extension Set | Pressure mounted | One-hand operation | 89 to 100cm | 75cm | Here | Opens in both directions, Automatic closing | 4.0 | |
Dreambaby Retractable Baby Gate | Hardware mounted | One-hand operation | up to 140cm | 81.5cm | Here | Retracts out of sight, See through mesh, No trip bar | 4.0 | |
Childcare Assisted Auto Close Gate | Pressure mounted | Two-way opening, Auto close | 76 to 96cm | 77cm | Here | Opens both ways, Automatic closing | 5.0 | |
BabyDan Guard Me Retractable Safety Gate | Hardware mounted | One-hand operation | 55 to 89cm | 71cm | Here | No trip bar, Fits narrow spaces | 4.0 | |
Leogreen ABS Retractable Baby Gate | Hardware mounted | One-hand operation | up to 87.9cm | 80cm | Here | Durable see through mesh, Fits extra wide spaces | 4.0 | |
Safety 1st Metal Baby Gate Stair Adjustable Barrier on eBay | Pressure mounted | One-hand operation | 73 to 80cm | 71cm | Here | Secondary locking mechanism, Strong steel frame | 4.0 | |
Perma Child Safety Gate | Pressure mounted | One-hand operation | 73 to 82cm | 76cm | Here | Multiple colours, UV resistant mesh | 4.5 | |
Lindam Numi Aluminium Extending Child Safety Gate on eBay | Hardware mounted | Two-way opening, Auto close | 66 to 101cm | 77cm | Here | Modern design, low profile mounting | 4.5 | |
Dreambaby Liberty Xtra-Wide Safety Gate | Pressure mounted | One-hand operation | 99 to 105.5cm | 76cm | Here | Stay open feature, Opens both directions | 4.5 | |
Levede Baby Safety Gate Stair Barrier | Pressure mounted | One-hand operation, Two-way opening, Auto close | 70.5cm | 76cm | Here | Durable steel, U adaptor available | 4.5 |
Top 10 Best Safety Gates For Stairs 2024
Handy reference list of the best baby gates for sale in Australia – see all full best baby gate stairs reviews below!
- Dreambaby Chelsea Safety Gate and Extension Set, Pressure mounted
- Dreambaby Retractable Baby Gate, Hardware mounted
- Childcare Assisted Auto Close Gate, Pressure mounted
- BabyDan Guard Me Retractable Safety Gate, Hardware mounted
- Leo green ABS Retractable Baby Gate, Hardware mounted
- Safety 1st Metal Baby Gate Stair Adjustable Barrier, Pressure mounted
- Perma Child Safety Gate, Pressure mounted
- Lindam Numi Aluminium Extending Child Safety Gate, Hardware mounted
- Dreambaby Liberty Xtra-Wide Safety Gate, Pressure mounted
- Levede Baby Safety Gate Stair Barrier, Pressure mounted
Choosing The Best Top Of Stair Baby Gate 2024
To find the best baby gates 2024 can offer you, it’s important to think about a few key things. For example, if you need the best stair gate for top of stairs, you’ll need to look for a product designed for this use. If you need swinging baby gates for top of stairs, you’ll definitely need to think about how safe the product is.
No matter whether you’re looking for cheap baby gates for stairs, a retractable baby gate for top of stairs or a small baby gate for stairs, there’s plenty you ought to be informed about – read all about what you need to know below.
Gap Size
Typically, gates are made to standard sized doorways (82cm wide in Australia). However, most gates can be extended/narrowed a little to create a snug fit on doorways that are a little over or under the standard size.
If you have a particularly wide area you want to fit a gate to, then you’ll need to look for a baby gate with additional extension pieces. We’ve included a couple of the best baby gate for large opening areas in this article.
It’s important you never use a baby gate that is not compatible with the size of the gap you are closing off as this could be very dangerous for your child.
Fitting System / Installation
Fitting or installing your baby gates properly is so important. Gates can either be pressure mounted, or hardware mounted. Baby safety gates for top of stairs should always be installed using hardware fittings i.e. with a drill and screws.
Never use pressure mounted baby gates for the top of the stairs as it’s possible they could fail and result in your little one tumbling down the stairs. Even if you need a baby gate for top of stairs with only one wall, you’ll need to look for a way to do this using hardware.
Pressure-Mounted Baby Gates
A pressure mounted baby gate is definitely the simplest and most convenient way to install baby gates. As the name suggests, they use pressure against the doorway or opening to keep the gate in place which comes from a retractable screw and cup system at (usually four) points of the gate. These are the best retractable baby gates for stairs if you use them only at the bottom, not the top.
Things to know about pressure mounted baby gates:
- Super easy to install – no DIY skills/tools needed, just follow the simple instructions
- You don’t need to drill into the wall
- Really easy to disassemble
- They are not as secure as hardware mounted gates – a hard nudge or toddlers standing on the gate could result in the gate failing which is why they can’t be the baby gate at top of stairs – feel free to use them as the best baby gate for bottom of stairs though
Hardware-Mounted Baby Gates
Hardware mounted baby gates are secured in place by drilling holes into the doorway or gap and screwing in. They can either be secured directly into the wall or by using a bracket which can result in less damage to your walls. As mentioned, this is the best safety gate for top of stairs install method. The best baby gate top of stairs installation method is written below.
Things to know about hardware mounted baby gates:
- The most secure installation method
- Requires you to drill into the wall
- Makes a hole in the wall
- The best baby gate for top of stairs – it’s not safe to use pressure mounted gates here
Open and Close Features
Be sure to check how the stair gates for sale you’re considering purchasing opens and closes. Most gates can be opened with only one hand (useful if you’re holding the baby with the other). Some can be opened in two directions, and some have an auto close feature.
One-Handed Operation
Most baby gates have a one-handed operation feature. You simply press a button on the top and lift the gate out of a socket. This double securing method means that little ones are unable to open it themselves.
Two-Way Opening
A two-way opening baby gates can swing both towards you and away from you. This means you can get through the gate easily no matter which direction you’re coming from.
Auto-Close Feature
Auto-close means that the gate will swing back and close on its own, without you needing to close it behind you. It’s strongly recommended to get an auto close baby gate top of stairs since this means there’s little to no likelihood that the gate will be left open and your baby will become endangered at the top of the stairs.
Retractable
Retractable gates retract like roller blinds or fold together when opened. The best retractable baby gate for stairs is one that will remain taut even when pushed against (some advice says not to use retractable gates for stairs at all). Always make sure your baby will be safe using these kinds of gates around stairs.
Locks And Safety
Most gates use a double lock system – you need to press the button at the top as well as lift the gate out of a socket at the bottom, or perhaps press two buttons at once. A double lock system is safer for little explorers.
Gate Height
You’ll find most baby gates range in size from around 72 to 105cm tall. Babies and toddlers love to climb (and they’re usually pretty good at it!). They’re also incredibly flexible so you need a gate that’s going to be tall enough to stop them from getting their leg over the top.
Think about how long you want to have the gate for and at what age they’re likely to outgrow it to get the best walk through baby gate. Also, if you want to keep pets out of certain areas of your home, the taller the better.
Material
Gates are made in a variety of materials including metal, mesh, plastic, and wood. Wooden and some metal gates can blend more seamlessly with the decor of your home. Plastic gates may not be as durable. Mesh retractable gates can be a great option for wider spaces. No matter the material, make sure the product is sturdy and safe.
Best Baby Gate For Stairs Reviews Australia 2024
Dreambaby Chelsea Safety Gate and Extension Set Review
Rating: 4.0
Specifications:
- Fitting System: Pressure mounted
- Open/Close Features: One-hand operation
- Fits opening from: 89 to 100cm
- Gate Height: 75cm
This baby gate by Dreambaby is a simple yet effective baby gate. You’re able to adjust the width from 89cm up to 100cm by adjusting the two 9cm extension side pieces. This makes it one of the best child gates for stairs that are a non-standard width. It’s also 75 cm tall.
The gate is made from strong welded black metal. It uses a dual lock system that means little ones cannot operate it – you slide the top lock and then pull the gate up, unlocking the second lock, all in one motion and you can open it in either direction.
Another nice feature is the auto-close function – easier for you and safer for baby – as well as the optional “stay open” function.
You’re able to install this gate the easy way by simply pressure mounting it, but Dreambaby also includes a hardware mounting kit which you’ll need if you’re looking for the best child gate for stairs. It weighs 6.08kg and you’re also able to purchase extensions separately for larger spaces you want to close off.
Benefits:
- Easy single handed operation
- Automatically swings closed
- Pressure mounted and hardware mounting optional
Drawbacks:
- High bottom bar – watch your toes!!
>> Click here to check the price and to read more reviews.
Dreambaby Retractable Baby Gate Review
Rating: 4.0
Specifications:
- Fitting System: Hardware mounted
- Open/Close Features: One-hand operation
- Fits opening from: up to 140cm
- Gate Height: 81.5cm
Dreambaby’s gate is a retractable baby gate that can be extended all the way up 140cm. It works similarly to those retractable belt barriers you get in airports for people to queue between. This could be the best baby gate bottom of stairs, top of stairs, or to separate larger spaces in your home like gaps between open plan areas. It’s 81.5cm tall.
The gate is constructed from a black mesh that retracts around a metal pole. This means that when the gate’s not in use you’re able to leave it rolled up to the side of the gap and completely open up the space unlike traditionally designed baby gates. To open it, you simply push down and twist the button which you can do using only one hand (although little ones won’t be able to).
Due to the nature of this gate, you will need to drill the wall to install it. The best thing about this gate is that you’re able to install two sets of clips which are both provided. This means you can use the gate in two areas of your home – just unclip it and move the mesh to the other install point.
You can also use it indoors or outdoors (UV protected) and it weighs just 1.52 kg. Plus it’s offered at a fantastic price on Amazon.
Benefits:
- Retracts out of sight when not in use
- Great for particularly narrow or extra wide doorways
- One-handed operation
Drawbacks:
- Needs to be screwed into the wall
>> Click here to check the price and to read more reviews.
Childcare Assisted Auto Close Gate Review
Rating: 5.0
Specifications:
- Fitting System: Pressure mounted
- Open/Close Features: Two-way opening, Auto close
- Fits opening from: 76 to 96cm
- Gate Height: 77cm
This gate by Childcare is a simple yet effective baby gate that can be fitted to 73.3 to 94cm gaps (use the extensions if the gap is wide) and is 77cm tall. This is the perfect gate for those looking for a self closing baby gate for top of stairs, since it’s very safe and secure.
The gate is made from sturdy welded white metal. It uses the conventional locking system – just push down on the button and then lift the gate to go through it (only one hand is needed). It uses an auto-close feature – safer for babies – and is a two-way opening gate.
This is a great product for parents that need the best pressure mounted baby gate, although it’s not recommended to use this one at the top of stairs. This product is suitable for babies up to two years of age and weighs 5kg. Pick it up for an awesome price on Amazon.
Benefits:
- Opens both ways
- Tool free, pressure mounted installation
- Budget friendly without compromising quality
Drawbacks:
- It’s hard to find any!
>> Click here to check the price and to read more reviews.
BabyDan Guard Me Retractable Safety Gate Review
Rating: 4.0
Specifications:
- Fitting System: Hardware mounted
- Open/Close Features: One-hand operation
- Fits opening from: 55 to 89cm
- Gate Height: 71cm
BabyDan’s gate is a folding, retractable gate that can fit inside a door frame from 64.5cm to 89cm or if outside of a door frame, 55cm to 79.5cm. You’re also able to purchase additional extensions to fit spaces up to 113.5cm making it one of the best baby gates for wide stairs. It’s 72.5 cm tall.
It’s made from white plastic that is guaranteed PVC free. You can open it with just one hand for easy access. The door itself is a bit like a folded fan and when you open it, it will automatically retract towards the wall. It doesn’t close automatically although when you do pull it back to close it will lock by itself.
The great thing about this gate is that there’s no bar on the bottom that you need to step over – this is always a concern if you have elderly guests or the space needs to be wheelchair friendly. This is a great choice if you’re looking for the best baby gates for top of the stairs without a potentially hazardous bar at the bottom. BabyDan’s gate weighs 3 kg and these are some of the best baby gates for toddlers up to two years old.
Benefits:
- Great option for narrow spaces
- No trip bar to worry about like with fixed gates
Drawbacks:
- Not the most attractive option
>> Click here to check the price and to read more reviews.
Leogreen ABS Retractable Baby Gate Review
Rating: 4.0
Specifications:
- Fitting System: Hardware mounted
- Open/Close Features: One-hand operation
- Fits opening from: up to 87.9cm
- Gate Height: 80cm
If you’re on the hunt for the best extra wide baby gates, this Leogreen retractable baby gate can be extended up to 120cm. It’s 80cm tall and the gate is constructed with mesh that automatically rolls up around a bar when opened. It uses a double locking mechanism that’s simple to open with one hand – just press and twist. You’re able to buy it in both black and white.
To install, you’ll need to drill the wall to fit it but this isn’t too tricky and all the fixtures are included. This gate doesn’t have a bottom bar which can create a trip hazard, making it the best gate for bottom of stairs or top of stairs. It also weighs just 3kg.
Benefits:
- Great for extra wide openings
- Made with durable see through mesh
- Small and easy to travel with
Drawbacks:
- Needs to be drilled and screwed into the wall
>> Click here to check the price and to read more reviews.
Safety 1st Metal Baby Gate Stair Adjustable Barrier Review
Rating: 4.0
Specifications:
- Fitting System: Pressure mounted
- Open/Close Features: One-hand operation
- Fits opening from: 73 to 80cm
- Gate Height: 71cm
This baby gate by Safety 1st uses the conventional baby gate design. It’s suitable for gaps 73 to 80cm but can be extended up to 136cm if you purchase extensions separately. If you’re looking for a quality yet cheap retractable baby gate, this product could be for you.
The gate is constructed using welded white metal. They feature a double locking mechanism – just pinch the buttons on the handle with one hand and you’re through. The gate can be opened in both directions.
If you’re looking for top baby gates for stairs, this product will do well at the bottom of a set of stairs, however, it’s not recommended you use these toddler gates for top of stairs as they can only be pressure mounted. It weighs 5.2 kg and with your purchase you’ll get a one year limited warranty.
Benefits:
- Ergonomic handle for easy single handed operation
- Secondary locking mechanism to make it extra safe
- Separate extensions available
Drawbacks:
- Hard to think of any!
>> Click here to check the price and to read more reviews on eBay.
Perma Child Safety Gate Review
Rating: 4.5
Specifications:
- Fitting System: Pressure mounted
- Open/Close Features: One-hand operation
- Fits opening from: 73 to 82cm
- Gate Height: 76cm
This Parma baby gate is another simple baby gate design that gets that job done perfectly. It can be extended from 73 to 82cm wide and is 79cm tall – a little taller than most gates.
These pressure mounted gates are ideal for parents after the best baby gates for bottom of stairs. They’re made from strong welded steel and are “warm black” (dark grey) – blends better with most home’s decor. They’re auto closing and also have a stay open function. For extra safety, they feature a lock indicator so you can see when the door is locked or unlocked.
A mindful feature of Perma’s gate is the reduced trip hazard – the bottom bar is 75% reduced in comparison to most standard baby gates, and install is simple since they’re pressure mounted.
Benefits:
- Available in multiple colours
- UV resistant mesh means it can be used outdoors too
Drawbacks:
- Needs tools to install
>> Click here to check the price and to read more reviews.
Lindam Numi Aluminium Extending Child Safety Gate Review
Rating: 4.5
Specifications:
- Fitting System: Hardware mounted
- Open/Close Features: Two-way opening, Auto-close feature
- Fits opening from: 66 to 101cm
- Gate Height: 77cm
These gates by Lindam are definitely impressive to behold and will suit parents looking to keep the aesthetic of their home when installing baby gates. The gate can be adjusted between 66cm to 101cm, and its height is 77cm tall.
If you need the best baby gate for wide stairs that doesn’t ruin your home decor, look no further – Lindam’s gates are built with premium aluminium and dark grey in colour. The gate is easy to open but uses a double lock function for safety.
It uses a low profile wall mounting fixture – when you’re not using the gate, you can simply remove it entirely. These are perfect if you need the best baby gates for the top of stairs.
Benefits:
- Perfect for ultra-modern homes
- Low profile mounting is discreet when gate isn’t in use
Drawbacks:
- Pricier than the standard gates
>> Click here to check the price and to read more reviews on eBay.
Dreambaby Liberty Xtra-Wide Safety Gate Review
Rating: 4.5
Specifications:
- Fitting System: Pressure mounted
- Open/Close Features: One-hand operation
- Fits opening from: 99 to 105.5cm
- Gate Height: 76cm
Dreambaby’s gate is a simple one that gets the job done. It’s one of the best baby gates for wide spaces since using the extension pieces you can extend it from 99 to 105.5cm. You’re also able to purchase the gate without the extension kit for an even cheaper price. It sits at 76cm tall.
Built with strong welded white metal, it features a one handed opening mechanism and double locking. It also has a stay open feature if you need it, otherwise, it will automatically swing shut behind you.
The installation process is easy because they are pressure mounted but Dreambaby also includes a hardware mounting kit for top of stairs installation. You’ll also get a one year warranty for your peace of mind.
Benefits:
- Smoothly opens in both directions
- Easy one handed operation
- Convenient stay open design
Drawbacks:
- Not suitable for narrow openings
>> Click here to check the price and to read more reviews.
Levede Baby Safety Gate Stair Barrier Review
Rating: 4.5
Specifications:
- Fitting System: Pressure mounted
- Open/Close Features: One-hand operation, Two-way opening, Auto-close
- Fits opening from: 70.5cm
- Gate Height: 76cm
This gate by Levede is another standard issue baby gate that measures 70.5cm wide. If you want to set this gate up on the stairs you’re able to purchase a U shaped adapter piece for installation to a baluster (the vertical bars on a staircase).
The gate is constructed using coated and welded black steel and is sturdily built. You’re able to open the gate with just one hand and in either direction. It has a double locking mechanism to prevent little hands from operating it and an auto-close feature. The gate weighs just 4.86 kg.
Levede’s pressure mounted gate features a wheel on the door – this means that it won’t be damaged if little ones stand on the door when it’s open.
Benefits:
- Durable steel construction
- Auto-close door that opens both ways
- U shape adaptor available separately
Drawbacks:
- Only available in black
>> Click here to check the price and to read more reviews.
I hope you enjoyed this guide to the best baby gates for stairs. For more baby essentials, check out my full guide to the best baby thermometer. Otherwise you can find all our guides to the best baby products here.
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