Special Offer: Get a free 30-day trial subscription to Consumer Reports.org

Note: Consumer Reports has no relationship with the advertisers on Babytalk.

A gate is a must with a baby on the move. A pressure-mounted one can be used where falling isn't a big concern, like between rooms. But hardware-mounted is your only choice at the top of a stairway. Here, the stairway-safe gate ratings and expert shopping advice from Consumer Reports Best Baby Products.

Features to Consider

height
A gate must stand a minimum of three-quarters of the child's height. When a child is taller than 36 inches or weighs more than 30 pounds (typically at about age 2), a gate won't hold him back; it's safer to ditch it, and be extra vigilant.

flexibility
Many gates can be installed to railings if you purchase a specific installation kit. Some hardware-mounted gates can slide out of the wall mountings, a bonus when, say, you're entertaining and don't want the gate in the way.

sights and sounds
Some gates audibly click when they're shut. Others have a color indicator showing when the gate is locked. Some even have a motion-sensor nightlight -- handy when you're on the night shift.

latches
Try them out. Make sure "one-hand" latches really are and that foot pedals are easy to use.

size up slats. Skip gates with horizontal slats -- they're easy to climb. Beware of accordion-style gates with "V"s at the top. Look for gates with vertical slats/bars that are fewer than three inches apart.

check for sturdy construction. Edges should be rounded. Some metal gates have a support bar that crosses the floor beneath the gate that could cause tripping when it's open.

Copyright © 2002-2008 Consumers Union of U.S., Inc.

Read all Consumer Reports Columns
Baby Gear Dangers
Slideshow: Best New Strollers

Stumble Upon Facebook Del.icio.us Google Yahoo Digg it