Product Spotlight: Gates
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home safety gates childproofing

It is amazing to watch your child grow from baby to crawler to toddler! As your child becomes mobile it's important to create an environment in which they can safely explore. Baby gates, along with adult supervision, are essential for preventing accidents and helping to keep your child out of harm's way. 

 

With so many different types of baby gates, it can be challenging to know which one to choose. In this blog post, we'll share tips and tricks for choosing the right type of gate and installing it correctly.

 

Types of Baby Gates

Before you begin your search for the perfect baby gate, it's important to know the different types available. Here are the three main types of baby gates:

Pressure-Mounted Gates: These gates are held in place by pressure against the walls or doorframe, making them easy to install and move around as needed. However, they are generally not recommended for the top of stairs  unless the mounting cups are screwed in for additional stability, and require occasional pressure adjustments to ensure optimal functioning.

 

Hardware-Mounted Gates: These gates are installed by being screwed directly into the wall or doorframe, making them particularly secure. These gates are recommended for stairways, and are also great to use throughout the home 

 

Modular Gates: These gates are an ideal solution for awkward areas around the home, especially at the top and bottom of stairs. Consisting of three or more panels, these are hardware-mounted gates which can be installed at different angles, or be used in a straight line to block off a wider area. 

 

Freestanding Play-Pens: Modular in design, these playpens have multiple panels, allowing a choice of play-pen shapes.  Freestanding playpens do not require any installation and can be closed up and moved around as needed. These playpens can also be opened up and used  as an extra-wide barrier gate with a hardware-mounted installation.

 

Choosing the Perfect Gate

Once you've determined which type of gate will work best for your space, you’ll need to consider the following:

  • Size: Measure the width of the doorway or stairway where you plan to install the gate to ensure the gate you choose will fit correctly. Be sure to check the height of the gate as well, and take into account any pets in the home who may be affected by the installation of a gate. 

  • Material: Choose a gate made from a sturdy material such as metal or wood.

  • Locks: Look for a gate with a locking mechanism that is simple for adults to use but more difficult for children to figure out.

 

Installing a Baby Gate

Here are some tips for installing your baby gate:

  • Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully, as each gate may have different installation requirements. We recommend having a read of the instructions prior to starting installation. 

  • For hardware-mounted gates, use a stud finder to locate the wall studs for maximum stability.

  • For all gates, make sure the gate is level and snug against the wall or door frame to avoid creating tripping hazards and ensure the gate functions just as intended.

  • Test the gate's locking mechanism to make sure it is secure and functioning properly. 

  • Adjust pressure-mounted gates every few months to ensure the tension is correct.

 

With a little planning and careful installation you can easily create a safer setting at home for your mobile kiddo!

 

Photo: My.Dearest.Three [IG]