If you’re lucky enough to have outdoor space where you live, there are three main common “concern areas”: gardens, decks, and perimeters. (See also: pool safety.)

Backyard Safety: The Garden

There are two issues with gardens — to begin, there are some hazardous/toxic plants you should be aware of. Secondly, you probably want to protect your gorgeous flowers and veggies from your prowling toddler. Also: dirt eating – HA.

Some garden-variety plants and flowers (heh) can be harmful if they’re ingested (in large amounts). Some of the most common ones are: daffodils, rhododendron, azalea, hydrangea, water hemlock, holly, nightshade and foxglove. A big one in Florida is Oleander. You can find a full list of toxic and non-toxic plants at the Poison Control Center’s website (complete with images).

Now…

If you have a garden you simply want to keep protected from your child, you could fence it off using a simple mesh guard. A classic green garden fence is the YARDGARD mesh wire fencing (~$28):

To rig it up, you just secure it to stakes — it’s designed to protect gardens from critters, but it can help with toddlers too.

If you’d prefer to use a child-specific product, you could opt for this mesh guard from KidKusion (~$18). It’s technically designed for decks (see below), but you could also use it as a light garden protector — just select the length you need, then fasten the ends to stakes using some zip ties.

One other option is to use a giant pet gate (~$34) to block the whole thing off — this is a tiny bit more expensive, but much more durable. My daughter Alice used to toddle around behind our deck and eat dirt by the fistfuls, which drove me completely insane. This gate also kept our dog from rolling around in the dirt and tracking it back into the house.

Backyard Safety: The Deck

Having a deck is the absolute coolest. Decks are the ultimate adult hang-out space — they’re chill, sophisticated, and fun… no matter where you live.

Having a deck when you have young kids is a whole ‘nother story, though; it can also turn even the most calm and collected parent into a nervous wreck.

There are some (albeit imperfect) ways to help make your deck more family-friendly:

For peace of mind, you can get a door alarm that will alert you in the event that your child gets onto the deck without your knowing. We’ve had good luck with the Secrui Door Alarm.

For your deck balustrade, you can use Deck Guard (~$18) from KidKushion to keep kiddos from squeezing in between the slats.

Note that the mesh guard is still not foolproof (and some say it doesn’t hold up well under the elements), so you’ll still need to keep a close eye out. The same company also makes a clear balcony shield (~$40), but it doesn’t do as well in the wind.

You could also use garden fencing (mentioned above).

Backyard Safety: Securing Perimeters

Obviously, the easiest and best way to secure your yard is with a traditional fence, but a fence is pretty pricey, and some neighborhoods really have a thing with them (ahem, New England).

If you’re not interested or able to put up a fence, you could think about using a number of over-sized gates to section off a portion of your yard as a safe play area.

If you’re looking for something that looks more like a “real” fence, but doesn’t require concrete, check out Zippidy Fences. They have a number of “semi-permanent” options that are designed for easy installation and average wear-and-tear; they’re pretty perfect for kids and pets. (Remember this phase of childhood doesn’t last forever, so a temporary fence like this one might work well in the short to medium term anyways.)

If your driveway is a breach point in an otherwise-fenced-in yard, you could also get a Retractable Driveway Net (~$134). It keeps kids from chasing balls into a busy street.

It comes in either orange or black, and extends up to 25’ in length. (Note that some parents have had some trouble with the “retractable” feature — there is an option for a non-retractable net if you prefer not to fiddle with it.) Note that either of these options only blocks off the driveway, so if you’re otherwise fenceless, it may not do you any good.

Okay, so maybe outdoor safety isn’t all that surefire… but every little bit helps—even those cheesy yellow signs that announce “I HAVE KIDS — SLOW DOWN ASSHOLE.” What? They work (except for my neighbor, who had hers stolen. We later found it in the bathroom at the local park….)

Whelp, folks, I’m sorry to say that’s about it for yard safety. These childproofing aids can help, but they can’t take over the heavy lifting. Hey, at least they’re a start. In the meantime, try to enjoy being outside as much as possible :).

Back to: Babyproofing Index

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The numbers are chilling.

Every year, approximately 800 children die from drowning. On average, more than 350 children fatally drown in a swimming pool or spa in a year… of those, nearly 80 percent are children younger than five.

When polled, half of all parents think they are able to effectively supervise their children around the water by listening for calls for help. While drowning is often portrayed as a loud, dramatic, eye-catching event (as in movies and such), in real-life, drowning is usually completely silent.

Sadly, many of us know of someone (or a friend of a friend) who has lost a child this way. Others of us have had close calls ourselves. One friend told me she found her toddler sitting on the edge of her parent’s pool in Florida over Thanksgiving after someone accidentally left the sliding glass door open to let the dog out. This gives me nightmares.

Nobody plans on these things happening, and yet they do.

There are many childproofing things I roll my eyes at; this is not one of them.

Layers of Protection

There is no way to babyproof a pool 100%.

Let me repeat… EVEN IF YOUR CHILD CAN SWIM: there is no such thing as a babyproof pool.

The best way to TRY to safeguard your pool is to have multiple layers of protection. To start, it’s a good idea to get on swim lessons as early as you can. Your other elements should include things like fences and gates, as well as optional systems like alarms or safety nets (keep reading to see our suggestions regarding the latter…).

*The most significant factor in childhood drownings, though, is ADULT SUPERVISION. So this is one arena in which over-the-top diligence is 100% warranted.

Parents who have a pool or hot tub have a special responsibility to babyproof them — not only for their own kids, but also for friends and neighbors.

If you have a pool, make sure to childproof the entire area leading to it, including the exterior doors and windows leading to the pool. (See here for door locks, and opt for some of the heavier-duty hardware.)

Fencing/Gates

Though there is no federal pool fence law currently in place within the US, several states, including Florida, Maine, and Arizona, have created their own individual pool fence laws. Most municipalities now require this — even for pool owners who don’t have children. And if you own a home with a pool, your homeowner’s policy will likely require it as well.

Install a four-sided fence that’s at least 4-5 feet tall, with a self-closing, self-latching gate around all pools and spas; never prop the gate to the pool area open. In fact, the use of a gate alarm can provide additional peace of mind and security.

For fencing off your pool, please consult a local pool safety professional. You can also check these pool fence providers’ sites for dealers in your area:

• Katchakid
• LifeSaver (DIY on Amazon)
• Sentry Safety: (DIY on Amazon)
• ProtectAChild
• Pool Guard USA

There are a couple of other products on the market to help keep kids safe in and around your pool (none of which take the place of the above-mentioned fence, by the way):

Pool Nets

The first is a Pool Net, like this one from Katchakid (see below).

This UV and winter-safe net stretches over the entire pool and anchors to mounted fasteners on the pool’s sides. Its purpose is to protect children from jumping into and drowning in the open water.

Katchakid pool nets are professionally installed by rigorously trained and certified technicians, and the company proclaims that “no child has ever drowned in a pool protected by a correctly installed Katchakid.”

Parents who have these say they’re easy enough to use and WELL worth any hassle. You can schedule a free consultation and request a custom quote from them here.

Alarms & Wearable Devices

A backup measure for keeping your kids safe near pools is through an in-pool alarm or wearable device. Wearables — devices intended to alarm if your child is submerged — and floating alarms are especially great for visiting a friend or while on vacation (aka they are more portable). In-ground alarms may be better for home pools, but honestly every category here has its drawbacks…

Namely, these technologies are FAR from perfect. Most of them (like many movement monitors) are finicky and prone to false alarms — there are as many complaints about them as there are rave reviews… So don’t put too much stock in them. But, if one would make you feel better, go for it. Here are our favorite swim-safety devices and pool alarms for kids (and pets!):

Safety Turtle 2.0 Pool Alarm Child Kit ~$164

*Note: The Safety Turtle 2.0 is currently out of stock as Safety Turtle has halted production of their products. We are keeping this review up for now in the event you can find one second-hand.

We used this at a rental house in Napa that had a pool (I literally couldn’t sleep at night, I was so worried…). It comes with a “turtle” wristband for your child, a base alarm for the house (which can also be plugged in outside — but note that the base is not weatherproof), and a USB cord/wall adapter.

Even when it’s plugged in inside, it’s loud enough that you’ll hear it at the pool (it’s loud!).

Safety Turtle is very sensitive, and it alerts you as soon as your child’s wrist gets wet. It would go off during handwashing, which was fairly annoying — but whatevs. It’s also impossible for kids to take off themselves, as it requires a custom key to remove the band (this is something users both love and despise…). To recap, your kid cannot remove it himself.

If you have more than one child (or your kiddo is having friends over to swim), one base alarm can support unlimited Turtle wristbands — and even collar attachments for pets (I could tell you a sad story about a pug….).

PoolGuard PGRM-2 In-Ground Pool Alarm ~$279

We haven’t had the chance to test these out in person, and again, the technology is finicky, but one option that frequently comes up is the PGRM-2 In-ground Pool Alarm by PoolGuard ($255). It has an underwater sensor that sets off an alarm… note that it only works for children/pets that weight at least 18 pounds.

*Suitable for pools up to 20×40 or 800 sq. feet.

Pool Patrol PA-30 Pool Alarm ~$219

This alarm floats in your pool on a tether string and sounds an alarm if movement is detected. Users like that this device has adjustable sensitivity settings (though the company advises using it at the most highly sensitive setting), and can be travel-friendly for vacations and rentals and such.

Note: if your pool is larger than 20×40 feet, the company advises placing two devices in the pool for full coverage (see diagrams below).

Another in-pool floating alarm that’s (relatively) well-liked is the LifeBuoy Pool Alarm (~$295) — it’s bluetooth enabled, so you can sync it with an app on your phone, and also comes with an option for “swim mode” (so you can swim without the thing going off) that automatically reverts to alarm mode after ten minutes of inactivity.

Similar to the Pool Patrol, the manufacturer recommends using more than one LifeBuoy if your pool is larger than 20×40 feet.

Additional Tips to Prevent Drowning:

• Never take your eyes off your kids when you’re near a body of water (yes, including the little inflatable baby pool in the backyard!), even if they know how to swim independently. Swim Safely suggests designating an adult “Water Watcher” to supervise children at all times around the water. We’ve had moments on vacation where there was confusion over who was “on duty” watching the kids in the water — be sure you are perfectly clear about whose turn it is!

• All parents and caregivers should learn CPR.

• While useful, “floaties” do not take the place of adult supervision; in fact, they can provide a false sense of security for kiddos and parents, and do not prevent drowning accidents.

• When you’re done swimming for the day, don’t leave toys in the pool; kids may jump in the pool when you’re not looking to play with them.

• Make sure everyone in the family knows how to swim; according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), “participation in formal swim lessons can reduce the likelihood of childhood drowning death by 88%.”

• Don’t swim in a pool with broken or missing drain covers — these can trap swimmers underwater; teach children to stay away from pool drains, pipes, and other openings to avoid entrapments.

• Always drain inflatable baby pools after each use.

• If you have a pool and don’t know where your child is … check the pool FIRST.

I hope this wasn’t too scary! Between this and car seats, I swear… #joykill!! I promise if you take the necessary precautions to keep your kids safe around water, you will sleep better at night.

• Traveling soon? There are other baby-proofing considerations for travel – so we made a guide for you!

Enjoy the summer!

Back to: Babyproofing Intro

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This can be a tricky combo — especially if you actually ever use (or plan to use) your fireplace. Don’t worry; we’ve got some hearth safety tips and tricks that’ll help make the entire fireplace area a much more tot-friendly place.

Babyproofing your Fireplace

Based on your specific needs, we’ve rounded up some solid choices to help childproof your fireplace area.

Starting with…

Fireplace Gates

Here’s the deal: if you actually plan on using your fireplace, you should get a baby gate. I know, I know, it totally detracts from the ambiance, but it’s such a relief to have.

Unfortunately, you can’t just use any baby gate. A gate to block off a fireplace has to: 1) secure to the walls (i.e., do NOT put a free-standing baby gate in front of your fireplace, which could topple over and lead to even more injuries), and 2) have an opening so can actually access the area to the fire.

If you have a wood-burning fireplace, you’ll want to place your gate farther back from the hearth so that it protects your littles from the open fire’s popping embers and sparks. If you have a gas fireplace, however, you can place your gate much closer.

Fireplace gates will also protect your little one from hot glass burns from gas fireplaces, which happen far too often (over 200 children get third degree burns from hot fireplace surfaces every year).

Here are some top-rated baby gates that parents love:

Bonnlo Baby Safety Fence ~$97 — Budget Pick

This adjustable gate mounts to the wall (hardware is included) and has a door that gives you easy access to the fireplace when you need it. You can even keep your fireplace tools inside the gate (near your fireplace) to ensure your tots can’t get to them.

Many parents really like this gate and say it does the job well, and a big bonus is that it’s half the price of the competition.

Qdos Construct-A-SafeGate ~$159

What’s unique about the Qdos gate is that it’s customizable; it allows you to create a gate based on your specific needs and the size of your hearth. It comes with a “starter kit,” which includes two wide sections and a door that, together, fits openings up to 82.5”. If you need to cover more ground, you can purchase extra doors in additional short (8”) and long (23.5”) sections.

You can remove this gate temporarily (for a no-kid party, or whatnot); it can easily be detached from the wall mounts without having to use tools. It also comes with anti-skid Floorsafe silicone pads to protect your floors from unsightly scratches, and has a Qdos NiteSafe Glow Strip, which helps you see the gate in the dark so you don’t slam into it in the middle of the night.

KidCo Auto Close Hearth Gate ~$249

This is a bit more expensive, but I’ve used both this gate and the budget pick^^ and this one is definitely a lot more user-friendly. Hey — you get what you pay for, right??

This gate includes five 24-inch interlocking sections that can be set up and angled as needed and mounted to the wall. This adjustable gate will fit a standard 6-foot hearth, and includes an extra wide door section that can be placed anywhere in the gate’s layout.

If you need this gate to cover a larger area, you can purchase extensions (available in 9 and 24-inch sections).

Hearth Cover For Safety

For those with flat hearths, one option is to not use your fireplace. 

Here’s one solution: put a bunch of different toys right ON the hearth, directly in front of your fireplace. This way, your fireplace will be completely blocked (fireplace? What fireplace?!) and your kiddos won’t even know it’s there.

If covering it with toys isn’t your thing, there are a variety of cute covers you can make or buy for your fireplace opening. I usually refer to Pinterest for this sort of design inspiration:

Stepped Hearths

Stepped hearths pose slightly more risk. Wobbly new walkers can easily run into them and hurt themselves on the sharp and rough edges.

Not to worry: there are a couple of different options to protect your little one (and your fireplace!).

Roving Cove Edge and Corner Guards ~$21

These highly-rated Roving Cove guards are super easy to use – just adhere with the included 3M double-sided tape – and aren’t… well… ugly. The entire thing is 20.4 feet and includes eight corner edges.

Safe for kiddos, they don’t contain any BPA, phthalates, heavy metals, or latex, and are naturally flame-resistant. They are also exceptionally dense and absorbent, so if (when) your kiddo runs into the edge of the fireplace, they’ll be okay (read: they won’t act okay — they’ll scream and cry like they cut off an arm – but you can rest easy knowing that in reality, they are actually OKAY).

Note: Roving Cove Edge and Corner Guards come in different sizes and colors.

KidKusion Soft Seat Hearth Pad ~$126

What sets this product apart is that it covers the ENTIRE hearth — not just the edges — so the whole horizontal surface is now kid/scrape-proof.

Not only does this protect your kiddo from falls, but it also creates a little spot for extra seating (I envision sitting on this thing while watching my kiddo play in the living room…so idyllic).

The pad is 90 inches across and about 14 inches deep, and attaches to the top of the hearth with double-sided tape. It’s flame-retardant, so you don’t have to take it off when you want to use your fireplace.

One downside, according to some reviewers, is that it comes in three pieces, and you have to cut them to fit your hearth. Because it can be difficult to cut straight edges, it isn’t easy to see where the pieces fit together (in other words, cut carefully!!).

DIY OPTIONS

If you’re crafty, you can make your own hearth cover. Here are some ideas ~

1) Interlocking Playmat

If you don’t want to spend the bucks to purchase something just to childproof your hearth, use a playmat to cover the area instead. Genius!

And if this is too unsightly for you, check out this neutral wood-floor looking playmat. (You’re welcome, LOL).

2) Bench Seat

If you are handy in the carpentry department, you can turn your somewhat-dangerous hearth into a cozy bench seat (you won’t be able to use your fireplace, because: fire). It looks something like this (again… thank you, Pinterest!):

Fireplace Door Lock

Whether you have a gas burning or a wood-burning fireplace, nobody wants their baby or toddler crawling around inside the fireplace — ick. There are fewer things more fun to play with than soot. My kids have both gotten into the fireplace and they come out looking like Oliver Twist — or maybe Jack Sparrow.

The one solution we found for this is a fireplace door lock.

This particular fireplace door lock (~ $22) keeps kiddos out of the fireplace and prevents tiny fingers from getting pinched in fireplace doors. You mount it over the handles of your fireplace doors – which effectively locks them – using a Phillips Head Screwdriver. When you want to remove it (you know, to actually use your fireplace), you have to use the screwdriver again (so, in other words, there’s no quick and simple way to do it). This is actually one of the chief complaints about this product.

Some reviewers say it didn’t fit, despite their fireplace doors being the correct dimensions for the product; others say the holes in the bars are not aligned properly, making it impossible to install; and quite a few say that, overall, it’s just cheaply made. For those of you who are handy (self not included), you may be able to make something like this yourself.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Burning wood, coal, and gas all release carbon monoxide, and when fireplace vents and exhausts aren’t cleaned regularly or properly, the levels of carbon monoxide in your home can reach dangerous levels. Not only fires, but household appliances like heaters, boilers and cookers are also responsible for many CO poisonings.

Because children have such small bodies, they are more susceptible to the effects of carbon monoxide. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can include headache, nausea, drowsiness, confusion, chest pain, and even loss of consciousness. About 20,000 kids a year go to ERs due to carbon monoxide poisoning. Scary.

Listen folks, my friend is a first responder and has the scariest stories about carbon monoxide poisoning — you do not want to mess with this!! He said the other day that this one family was about an hour away from a “forever sleep.”

Shudders.

But what’s truly terrifying is that you can’t see, taste, or smell carbon monoxide — it’s a “silent killer.” Therefore, you MUST invest in some carbon monoxide detectors (of course you need working smoke alarms too… but you know that.)

Like wearing seat belts and helmets, it’s just what we do now.

If your home was built or remodeled recently, you *should* have a CO detector hardwired on every floor of your home; it’s usually integrated into a smoke detector. If you have an older home (or, for a quick and dirty solution), check out the Nighthawk AC plug-in CO Detector (~ $30) because it’s simple to use (just plug it into any outlet), and reliable.

When it detects elevated carbon monoxide levels in your home, you’ll know it – an 85-decibel alarm will sound (it’s loud! But in this case, that’s a good thing…). Just remember, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

That’s it for now. Until next time, happy toddler-proofing!

Back to: Babyproofing Intro

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Most drowning fatalities happen during a quick lapse in oversight, like a parent getting a towel or answering the phone or door, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission — a fact which scares the absolute sh!t out of me.

Baby Bath Safety

Outside of the super-scary risk of drowning, there are simple things that can help you make bath time in general easier, safer, and more relaxing for everyone. Specifically, you want to think about three areas:

• Temperature
• Slipping
• Bath spout covers

Bath Temperature

An ideal, safe water temperature for babies and toddlers is just over 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38°C) — you want it a tad bit warmer than body temp. Your child might prefer baths a couple degrees warmer or colder, and that’s fine, but this is a good starting point.

To be perfectly honest, you don’t need to overthink this. Our #1 most recommended item for checking temperature — not to mention, winner of the Innovation Award in Parenting for 10,000 years running is….

A human hand!

Yes, that’s right, people. The human hand has been a highly reliable source of temperature info for hundreds of thousands of years.

If you are too lazy to stick your hand in the water (people are busy, we get it! LOL) and you really need an ultra-precise, state-of-the-art temperature reading, you can always use a bath thermometer.

Dreambaby Room and Bath Thermometer ~$12

There’s no hands-down winner in this department, but parents like this Dreambaby classic yellow duck, crocodile, or turtle, and it reads in both Celsius and Fahrenheit.

Bathtub Anti Slip Mat

To prevent slipping and sliding accidents, especially once your little one starts pulling up and cruising, you’ll probably want to use a non-slip mat for bathtime. Heck, even my 5-year-old still looses her balance and slides around.

*To avoid mold, make sure to hang it up/air it out after each or most use.

Gorilla Grip Bath Mat ~$20+

It’s not a “child proofing” product, per se, but it’s well loved by everyone. It comes in many different colors, is porous (so water flows through it easily), stays in place in the tub, is comfortable for kids to sit on, and is machine washable.

Boon Ripple Mat ~$19

Perfect for those that prefer something more “kid-specific.”

HEVEA Natural Rubber Mat ~ $30

This shower mat is made from natural rubber derived from the sap from rubber trees Hevea Brasiliensis. Not only is it completely biodegradable/compostable, it’s also free of nasty chemicals like PVC, BPA, phtalates and microplastics.

Tub Spout Cover

These babes are wobbly. You may also want to get a bathtub faucet cover to protect them against bumps and scratches.

Skip Hop Moby Bath Spout Cover ~$14

This little whale (Baaaaaby Beluga ) is the runaway favorite — it’s adorable, portable, inexpensive, and effective.

Lalo Spout Cover ~ $15

If you want to baby proof your bathroom without ruining the zen vibe with clunky kids stuff, give the Lalo brand a try. Their spout is stylish, and they have bath time bundles for the early newborn days.

The OXO spout is also a good minimalist alternative.

All right — scrub a dub dub!

Next: Window Safety

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The goods news is: the solutions are EASY. Hang in there, we’re almost done…

Furniture Safety

Tall, top-heavy furniture items pose the biggest danger to little ones.

Walk around your home to various furniture items, then get on your knees and try to pull the item down from the top. Remember that kids can get aggressively curious or climb up on furniture (using the drawers/shelves like steps, etc.), so if you have ANY doubts, you should secure it to the wall. Don’t forget about spaces like your garage or basement, where tall shelves are abundant.

To eliminate the risk of falling furniture or TVs, the easiest solution is to install “L brackets,” or furniture anchors. These are all pretty generic, and you’ll definitely be able to get them at your local hardware store – or here on Amazon.

Furniture brackets, or L brackets, are the cheapest, simplest option, and most people are very happy with them. They don’t allow for any wiggle room (literally). Just scoop some up at the hardware store and install them, like so (yes, you’ll have to drill your furniture).

Furniture anchors are a more durable, advanced option for securing pieces. They tend to come in either a wire form or a strap (fabric form). New furniture, such as dressers, are sold with anti-tip devices. Install them right away.

All stand-alone ranges should also be secured with an anti-tip device, as kids tend to climb up on open oven doors and use it as a step — and always when your back is turned!

Best Furniture Anchors

The benefit of a proper furniture anchor is not having to drill or deface the top of your furniture, which most people don’t want to do. The exception to this is when you have an extremely tall piece of furniture that you’ll never see the top of anyway.

Best Furniture Cables

Hangman Anti-Tip Kit ~$9 for 1 / $39 for 6

Probably the most dependable furniture anchor. The Hangman Anti-Tip Kit can withstand up to 400 pounds of resistance; if you need something ultra heavy-duty, this is your best option. Reviewers rave about it.

It’s discreet, works very well, and is easy to set up. You can watch the full installation demo here.

Best Furniture Straps

KidCo Anti-Tip Straps ~$5

Almost everyone agrees that the KidCo straps get the job done (actually, so much so that many users complain they’re difficult to remove if/when the time comes). Parents love them for being inexpensive, effective, and easy to use. That said, these aren’t technically guaranteed against any specific weight (like the Hangman Anti-Tip Kit, above), and the materials are obviously less structurally reliable (plastic vs. steel, c’mon).

Best TV Straps

You should also get special straps designed to hold TVs on top of TV stands. *You should anchor your television even if it’s standing on a piece of anchored furniture, btw.

QuakeHold! Universal Flat Screen Safety Straps ~$29

This one gets rave reviews. It works for flat TV screens up to 70” and 150 lbs.

These are nice because they don’t require screws, and tons of users say their TVs have survived some pretty nasty earthquakes.

Corners and Edges

Other than the falling risk, furniture corners and edges can be tricky for wobbly toddlers.

You can get a set of corner guards alone (~$11 for 8):

Or you can get a set that also comes with a whole roll of edging (~$22) if you want to line any surfaces flush:

OK! Anchors away ; )

Next: Doorknob Covers and Locks

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Case-in-point: babyproofing windows.

In 2011, Pediatrics (the official journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics) published one of the first ever studies on window fall injuries in the United States. It paints a scary picture: between 1990 and 2008, more than 98,400 children visited an emergency department with an injury from a window fall (that’s more than 5,000 per year). A full quarter of those kids were injured badly enough that they were admitted to the hospital.

*Nearly 65% of injuries occurred in the 0-4 age group, with the most common ages being 1-year-olds and 2-year-olds. Compared to older kids, younger kids were more likely to suffer head injuries, more severe injuries, and death. 

Toddlers and preschool-aged kids have the highest likelihood of falling from a window and getting (seriously) hurt.

Did you know? “Tears in Heaven” was written following the death of Eric Clapton’s four-year-old son, Conor, who fell from a window of the 53rd-floor New York apartment of his mother’s friend. SAD!!

As the National Safety Council writes, approximately 8 children under the age of 5 die every year from window falls… This is why we’re talking about babyproofing windows, friends.

The biggest hazards lie within old homes/buildings. You see, modern buildings typically have much safer windows than old buildings. For example, in modern mid- and high-rises, the windows are limited to opening 3”. The scary ones are the old Victorians, for example, with windows that come all the way down to your knees and open up to the size of an adult.

For people who have these old (beautiful!) double hung windows (assuming they aren’t painted shut.), your best bet is to open the top sash only. Yes, many people don’t know this, but true double hung windows can open from the top or bottom — and opening them from the top (only) is an easy way to solve this babyproofing problem.

A study that looked at window cord-related injuries found that they are less common than falls, but still a major problem – from 1990-2015, nearly 17,000 children under the age of 6 visited an emergency room due to an incident with window blinds (around 650 per year). Most of the cases involving window cords – which pose a major risk for strangulation – were lethal.

The CPSC passed a mandate requiring that window coverings be cordless (by the end of 2018), but it will take years for this new regulation to really “take effect,” since there are countless corded window coverings in homes and other buildings across the country.

The takeaway: babyproofing windows is serious business.

The good news: we have options to help us make windows safer. Here’s the rundown:

Lock your windows closed

This might be the easiest route to go, especially if you have a newer home with windows that latch/lock closed. If you don’t, you can get simple locks – like this sash lock (~$13) – from your local hardware store.

This (obviously) entails keeping your windows closed at all times, and that’s certainly not going to work for everyone (looking at you, west coasters-who-have-no-A/C…).

Keep in mind that most window accidents happen in the spring and summer, when windows are open, so you’ll want to switch up your strategy depending on where you live and the season. If you want to be able to keep your windows open, you have two main options: window guards or window stoppers. Come hither and have a look…

Install window guards

Yes, the kind that look like jail bars. It might not be the exact aesthetic you were going for, but these add-ons work. The AAP, the CPSC, and worried parents everywhere endorse and encourage them. If you want to be able to throw your windows open and let the summer breeze sweep through your home, this is definitely your best option.

It’s possible to find them at your local hardware store, but you’re probably better off getting some online. Check out Guardian Angel Window Guards for a buying guide to see what kind/size prison bars you need (kidding! Sort of). You can also order them on Amazon, if you prefer (just make sure you get the right sizing). Proper window guards will all have emergency releases for firefighters (little buttons that firefighters know about!), so you don’t have to worry about creating a firey deathtrap. You should learn how to use these as well — it’s quite simple (for adults, not for kids).

If you “DIY” it, make sure the gaps between bars are no larger than four inches wide. Lastly, some parents advise putting these in “sideways,” so the bars are vertical, to prevent expert climbers from scaling them like a ladder.

If you’re dead-set against baby jail, KidCo makes a mesh window guard that parents seem to like relatively well.

One reviewer described the mesh as about the same material as a pack ‘n’ play, if that helps give you a sense of how protective it would be (…if you’re nervous at all, probably better off with the bars). A few users also warn that the screws strip very easily, so watch out for that during assembly. It fits windows 26-40” wide.

Put up window stoppers

There are a couple of different kinds of window stoppers, but they all basically limit the distance a window can open. Hence, this is a great option for opening the windows just a little bit – four inches at most.

I use both of these at my house and the Window Warden is definitely my favorite:

Cardinal Gates Window Warden Window Stopper ($20 for 4)

Cresci Window Wedge ($23 for 4)

I dislike these because the window gets easily jammed into the wedge and requires excessive force to get it closed again (trust me on this one), especially if you have old wood windows. It may work better for newer windows that aren’t as sticky. I must say the thing I do like about these is that you can easily remove and adjust them (they are velcro’d on) if you do need to open your window wider. This came in handy when I needed to open the window super wide to hang Christmas lights last year.

Casement Windows

For casement windows, like this:

— you’ll need a separate type of window stopper.

You can get either the economical version ($10 from Dreambaby):

or a heavier-duty version, like this one, from Truth Hardware:

The downsides with these kinds of restrictors are that 1) they can be tough to find (definitely check your local hardware store), and 2) they require screws for installation. (Note: local window companies often also have this kind of “specialty hardware,” so that’s another place to check.) Some people also use a simple chain lock to achieve the same effect.

**DIY hack: if you have adjacent windows, you can tie them together so they’ll only open so far.

If you have a Juliet door (a la Peter Pan) that you need to lock up, you may need actual locks…. head on over to doorknob covers to see our picks for door locks. Another option is to install something heavy-duty, like a deadbolt.

Window Cords

Window cords are another hassle in the window department.

Be sure to remove/tie-up any cords from hanging blinds or window coverings, by:

Getting a FREE kit provided by the Window Covering Safety Council – request one here.

Using a cheap fix, like:

Blind Cord Wraps ($11 for 8)

Blind Cord Wind-ups ($10 for 8)

*Note: parents aren’t crazy about either of these two products (they’re cheap), but the cord wraps seem to hold up a little better.

Other measures to help with babyproofing windows:

• Move furniture away from windows (there are more accidents when furniture is near a window).
• Remove the cranks from crank-open windows to keep kids from opening them.
• If you want the extra insurance, some parents like to use window alarms just in case — these sound an alarm if the window opens at all (or opens past a certain point). Either way, if your kiddo did manage to get a window pried open, it would alert you immediately. We like the Doberman Security Window Alarm Kit ($33 for 4).
• Do not rely on screens to keep your child from falling out a window. Screens are designed to keep BUGS out – not kids in.
• If you live in an apartment, your landlord might be required to provide window guards, so you may want to check local ordinances….
• Some local/state public health departments provide window guards at a discounted rate (ahem, Boston… way to go!), so that’s worth two minutes on Google.

To Recap:

Windows can be a major hazard for little kids — installing guards and babyproofing windows is a total headache, I know, but you will sleep so much better knowing you don’t need to worry about them. Plus, childproofing to the nines is one of our discipline commandments to improve toddler behavior — win, win.

Onward…

Back To: Babyproofing Index

The post Babyproofing Windows appeared first on Lucie's List.

How exciting! … and also completely terrifying.

A walking toddler means it’s time to kick your childproofing game into high gear. Let’s start with doorknob covers and locks.

Okay, so you may be thinking, “doorknob covers? Seriously? Do I really need those?”

In short, the answer is: yes.

Why You Need Doorknob Covers and Locks

• Curious toddlers just love exploring and opening and closing doors on their own. It’s all fun and games until someone accidentally slams their cute little fingers in the door, or gets them caught in the hinges.
• To keep kids out of rooms you don’t want them to go in unattended (i.e. the bathroom, the room with the cat’s litter box, the laundry room, the basement, etc.)
• To prevent kids from locking themselves in a room (my toddler has done this…)
• Toddler sleep training and safety. After kids transition from cribs to “big kid beds,” you want to make sure they stay safely in their own rooms all night (i.e. not wandering the halls, going downstairs for a midnight snack, or coming into your room approximately 97 times per night… trust me on this one, I’m speaking from experience!).

When it comes to childproofing doorknob covers and locks, there aren’t a ton to choose from, but there are a few different types. You want to start by determining what your needs are (do you have round doorknobs or levers? Do you own a pet who needs to be able to get through? etc.), and how McGyver-ish your child is (don’t laugh — some kids have serious skills and strength…).

Here are a few of the most highly-rated choices, broken down into the following categories:

Round Universal Safety Doorknob Covers and Locks

To open a door when these covers are on, you have to stick your fingers through the holes, grab the knob, and turn. You’ll probably have to use your thumb and pointer or middle finger, and for those who don’t have a lot of hand strength or dexterity (such as the elderly, or even older middle school-aged children), this could be especially challenging. The good news? If it’s hard for adults to do, it should be even harder for toddlers…

To take the cover completely off, simultaneously push the buttons on both sides, and the two pieces click open.

Jool Baby Doorknob Covers ~$10/4 count

These well-liked doorknob covers fit on most standard-sized round doorknobs and are very similar to the Munchkin covers discussed above. They click easily into place around your doorknobs. Like the Munchkin covers, in order to operate the door with these covers on, adults must put their fingers through the holes to grasp and turn the doorknob.

These are highly-rated, and many say they work better than other brands they’ve tried. That said, some reviewers do report that their littles were still able to break them off. If this happens to you, you can always duct tape the sides to make them tougher for toddlers to open. On the flip side, a few grandparent reviewers say that these are quite tough for them to use because they lack the strength needed to turn a doorknob using only their fingertips.

EUDEMON Doorknob Lock ~ $10 (pack of 4)

Another parents’ favorite, these doorknob covers are made of soft plastic and, according to reviewers, stay on more securely than other brands.

They’re also easy to install: just slide the piece over the door knob — no tools needed. Once on, it can be difficult to take off, though that might be a blessing in disguise. When you need to open the door, just press the double buttons and the knob turns easily… well easy for you, not for the kids. Hehe!

Safety 1st Door Lever Lock ~ $14

This highly-rated lock doesn’t require tools for installation and is a great proofing alternative if you have lever doorknobs. In order to unlock it, you need to push two different buttons simultaneously. The best part? It comes with a decoy button in front to keep clever toddlers from figuring out how to open it.

You can also push the locking arm to deactivate the lock (there’s a yellow indicator showing when the lock isn’t in use).

Pinch Protection and/or Solutions for Pet Owner Parents

Door Monkey ~$12

The Door Monkey is a super innovative and versatile childproofing product. It’s a way to prevent kids from opening all kinds of doors — those with round handles and levers — and serves as a pinch guard, preventing kiddos from getting their fingers stuck in doors and hinges. There is not a parent in the world who hasn’t had this happen to their child — it is excruciatingly painful.

To use, just clamp the Door Monkey onto the door (Note: you can do this at any height you desire, so if you have an older child who will need access to the room, you can clamp it lower so he can remove the Door Monkey as necessary).

Because it keeps doors slightly ajar (which is why it prevents pinches), it also helps air circulate through the room.

To unlock the Door Monkey, you just pull the “tail” (pictured below).

When you take the Door Monkey off, you can hang it on the doorknob until you’re ready to use it again. Easy peasy.

Overall, this is a really great option to keep kids out of certain rooms, and also to prevent them from getting their fingers caught in the door. But, it may not be the best choice for doors you do want to fully close — like the door to the bathroom (um, can I get some privacy in here please?!).

Door Buddy Lock and Foam Door Stopper ~$19

This is another unique solution for parents who are also cat owners. Similar to the Door Monkey, Door Buddy keeps the door open wide enough for the cat to sneak in and out, but not for baby!

It has an adjustable strap which allows you to crack the door as wide (or narrow) as you want.

This particular version also comes with a foam door stopper to protect little fingers from being pinched or slammed in a door.

While most reviewers really love this product and say it works well, some do report that it’s easy for toddlers to pull off… and that when they do, the strong 3M VHB adhesive tape it’s secured with takes the paint (and in some cases, drywall!) right off the wall. Eek.

McGyver Munchkins

Safety Innovations Top Door Lock ~$9

So your kid can break off every doorknob lock known to mankind.

She has superhuman McGyver-like skills and you are ready to wave the white flag and admit childproofing defeat. But, wait! Here’s a product that just may work for even the mightiest of McGyver-like munchkins.

The Safety Innovations Top Door Lock rests on top of the door so kiddos can’t reach it. I repeat: your kids can’t reach it!

In addition to the fact that tiny Houdinis can’t reach, break or open this lock, reviewers also like that you can open and lock it from both sides of the door.

It fits all standard interior doors up to 1 3/8 inch thick. In order to install this door lock, you first need to screw the peg into the door frame. Once the peg is in, you just slip the latch on the top of the door frame and slide it around the peg to lock it (and slide it off to release).

If you’re short like me, it comes with an extension wand to attach to the latch so you can easily slide it without having to use a step stool.

Here’s a video showing exactly how the Top Door Lock works:

Door Guardian ~$16

Door Guardian is a really cool product because it serves double-duty: it keeps kids IN and unwanted intruders OUT.

This all-in-one childproofing and home security lock can be applied to all exterior doors, and effectively works to prevent your littles from being able to open the door and wander outside; when Door Guardian is in lock position, no one can enter from the outside of the house, either.

In fact, one user (who described himself as a large guy) said that after he installed the Door Guardian, he tested it by pushing on his door as hard as he could—to the point of almost damaging it—and the door didn’t budge at all.

When it comes to keeping your kiddos safe, check out this video that shows exactly how Door Guardian works.

Most users say Door Guardian is easy to install, and that because it’s placed high up on the door hinge, little people can’t reach it (and even if they could, they wouldn’t be able to operate it).

Adults simply need to slide the outer part of the lock out and open to unlatch the Door Guardian (see visual below).

Door Guardian comes in 6 colors (black, brass, satin chrome, white, antique brass and antique nickel), and people love that it’s relatively attractive (or rather, not unsightly…) and very durable.

That’s it for now, friends. I hope we’ve helped you find a solution that works for you. And if all else fails, you could simply try a standard hook/eye lock, or call a locksmith to put locks on the doors you don’t want your kids to open. (Seriously, tho). Good luck!

Next: Hearth Safety

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Toddlers are infinitely amused by toilets; they think of them as their own personal waterplay feature — and at the perfect height, too. Sweet!!

But not only are toilets a drowning hazard (it’s rare – about 2 deaths per year – but it does happen), but mostly — it’s just plain gross when toddlers have their hands all up in the toilet. Ewwwww.

One option for baby-proofing your toilet is to simply keep the bathroom door closed and locked from the outside. This is a great idea anyway because bathrooms tend to be chock-full of off-limits stuff like cleaning supplies, medicine, grooming appliances and the like.

A simple way to do this is by installing a hook-and-eye lock high up on the door, out of your child’s reach.

But after you forget to close/lock the door that one time and find the toilet packed to the brim with stuffed animals and toilet paper (or find your iPhone swimming in the toilet, ahem), then you may decide you need some extra protection.

So… since you can padlock your toilet for well under $10, we think it’s worth it. Your iPhone will thank you.

Toilet Seat Lock Options

You’ll be absolutely shocked to hear that there isn’t a huge market for toilet seat locks. You’ve basically got three options:

1. Wappa Baby Lid Lock with Arm ~ $19 for 2

This toilet seat lock is so easy to install and use. Note that you have to have your toilet seat installed properly with no give or wiggle. If you have a cheap toilet seat that slides around, bends or gives, it won’t work at all.

Note: this toilet lock is not totally foolproof. Like with most babyproofing devices, with enough determination and force, it can be broken off. Proper prep is key to a good installation. Take care when placing the arm when installing.

2. Mommy’s Helper Lid-Lok ~ $9

Another toilet lock option is the Mommy’s Helper Lid-Lok. This one affixes to the side of the toilet and unlocks easily to fold back.

It works just fine for many, but some reviewers note that it doesn’t have a great fit on every toilet seat. Others note that the plastic is pretty flimsy and can be broken by curious little ones. If your kiddo’s the type to fiddle with locks a ton, better opt for the Wappa Baby, or a latch-style lock, below.

3. Latch Locks

Lastly, you could also throw an adhesive strap lock on the toilet. We love the Munchkin Xtraguard Dual-Action Latches ($8 for 2) and the Wonderkid Safety Locks ($19 for 6). These are an absolute favorite in the baby-proofing department! You can really use them anywhere in the house.

Be prepared – if you install a lock mechanism on your toilet, make sure you show guests how to use it. If there is any urgency to the situation… and a guest can’t figure it out… bad things can happen in the middle of the night, for example… .

The Toilet Paper Roll

Every single toddler who sees a toilet paper roll desperately wants to unravel it — this is straight-up human nature. To ward off your little hooligans from turning your bathroom into a frat party scene, try this great parent hack: a hair tie or rubber band around the TP roll (courtesy of the clever folks at Seesaws and Sawhorses):

Alternatively, you can just keep the toilet paper out of reach somewhere.

Easy peasy.

Next: Bath Safety

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Yup, it’s time for mother (and father’s) little helper: child safety locks. Quick to install and easy on the pocketbook, these simple devices are worth their weight in gold.

Types of Cabinet and Drawer Safety Locks

1. Magnetic Locks
2. Adhesive “Strap” Locks
3. Spring Action Locks
4. Cord Locks (for side by side cabinets)

Each has its own pros and cons…

1. Magnetic Safety Locks

Magnetic locks mount to the inside of your cabinets or drawers, so they’re the least invasive in the “aesthetics” department. Magnetic locks use powerful magnets to keep cabinets and drawers closed with a magnetic “key,” of sorts, to engage and disengage the locking mechanism. See a quick video of this here.

These come in packages of 4 or 8 locks to one (or two) keys, so you can install them across a wide range of cabinets and drawers.

*A unique feature of magnetic locks is that you have the ability keep them in “unlock mode” for any period of time, which allows you to quickly whip up some dinner without having to unlock drawers and cabinets every time – or for after bedtime, or the years between kids when you don’t need them. They’re also great for grandparents who only need them engaged while grandkids are visiting. Yes, magnetic locks are the most flexible type of lock in the long term.

Baby brain: buy an extra key (just in case).

I can see these being used years down the line to keep teens out of liquor cabinets and such (only partially kidding…).

Another benefit to magnetic locks is that they hold doors and drawers completely closed, which prevents pinching of little fingers (other locks are notorious for partially opening and allowing fingers to be pinched).

On the downside, magnetic locks are a bit tedious to install, as they require a precision fit. In the past, only babyproofing professionals would install these, but now anyone can buy them off the shelf.

Another con: needing a key (or something else that can get lost) to open your cabinets and drawers every time is a pain.

At the end of the day, if you can get over the tedious installation, most people who have magnetic locks are happy with them.

What people say:

“I can disable the locks when I’m cooking up a meal so I don’t have to ‘unlock’ them every time.”

“They are completely invisible, as they are mounted to the inside of the cabinet door.”

“We like that we can disable the locks when the grandchildren aren’t here.”

“I stick the magnet key up high on the fridge so I always know where it is.”

Best Magnetic Cabinet Locks

Jambini Magnetic Cabinet Locks ~$13 for 4 locks

Jambini Magnetic Cabinet Locks are our top pick for people who cannot screw into their cabinets and drawers (renters and such). These magnetic locks are very highly rated, though some complain the adhesive tape isn’t strong enough. They’re also easier to install than their hardware-mounted counterparts.

What people say:

“If the adhesive isn’t strong enough, you can use Gorilla Double sided tape.”

“They’re super easy to install with 3M adhesive, which means no drilling or putting holes in your cabinets. No screwdrivers required!”

“We rent and live in an apartment, so we aren’t allowed to use screws and bolts to keep our cabinets babyproofed and safe. These work well!”

Safety 1st Adhesive Magnetic Cabinet Locks ~$50 for 8 locks and 2 keys

The Safety 1st adhesive locks are also excellent in terms of quality, but run at a slightly higher price.

Safety 1st Magnetic Locking System Complete ~$29 for 8 locks

These work the same as the previous product except they’re installed with screws. Many feel this is a more secure installation (though more tedious to install). Lose the key? You can always order an extra.

Note for renters: these require hardware mounting inside of your cabinets or drawers.

What people say:

“What a pain to install, but worked great!”

“I saw one review that mentioned it would not lock sometimes. I suspect the locks weren’t well aligned. You have to be careful on the installation.”

“Held up over after a year of abuse from a very persistent four and two-year-old.”

2. Adhesive Mount Cabinet Locks

Adhesive locks can be used for babyproofing just about anything—cabinets, drawers, stoves, microwaves, toilets—you name it. Simple, inexpensive and renter-friendly, these strap locks include adhesives that remove easily (well, relatively easily) without damaging surfaces.

Don’t forget to clean and dry the surface thoroughly (with rubbing alcohol) before you attach the sticky pads. After placing the adhesives, allow 24 hours to set before applying pressure. When removing, Goo Gone works miracles to remove sticky residue.

These are the simplest locks to install, though they are visually distracting, especially if you’re using a lot of them. Though a little pricier, these are also a good choice for items or furniture that can’t be drilled into.

Best Adhesive Strap Locks

Munchkin Xtraguard Dual Action Multi-Use Latches ~$9 for 2 — Editor’s Choice

I used these on all my cabinets and drawers at home including our nightstands (antiques that I really didn’t want to drill into). Also: I don’t have the patience for keys, LOL.

The flexible strap allows for latching around any corner. The latches release and swivel out of the way when not in use. (And you can leave them unattached when you don’t need them in action.) *These are our top pick for easy baby proofing — they’re affordable, versatile, and SERIOUSLY toddler-proof.

WONDERKID Adjustable Child Safety Locks ~$16 for 6

A lesser-known brand, Wonderkid, also makes an awesome adhesive lock. These have one side that’s adjustable from 4 to 7.5 inches, which allows you to get a tighter installation for drawers and such. Bonus: these have a dark brown option for those with dark furniture or cabinets. I’ve seen this a lot in day care/preschools.

3. Spring Action Locks

Spring action locks are the cheapest you can buy (as little as $1.50 ea.). And they work! These were hot in the 80’s when babyproofing first became a thing, but you see them less frequently these days. These use a simple spring you push down to open the cabinet or drawer. They’re not as user friendly, and more prone to break and need replacement, but they’re still a cheap quick fix!

We recommend…

KidCo Spring Action Cabinet Lock ~$8 for 4

Like magnetic locks, these KidCo locks also have an “off” mode. This could also work well for grandparents who don’t want to invest very much in babyproofing. The benefit of these over magnetic locks is there is no key required; anyone with ample finger strength can get into them.

These are fairly easy to install, but you do have to pre-drill four holes for each lock, so it’s a bit time consuming. Many have noted the accompanying screws aren’t the best quality, so be sure not to strip them.

Don’t underestimate these, people. They’re cheap and they work. Best of all, no key required!

4. Cord and Slide Locks for Side by Side Cabinets

There are many double door cabinets with opposing knobs right next to each other. Essentially, you’re tying the two knobs together (with a device) so they can’t be pulled open.

This situation makes for easy and non-invasive babyproofing with a “corded lock” or “slide lock.” Heck, in a pinch you can even use a strong rubber band.

There are locks for round knobs or straight handles. They also work well for grandparents needing a temporary (and no-installation-required) solution for tiny, curious visitors.

Pros: Cheap. No installation required (no drilling, no adhesive, no damage to cabinets). Also great for travel!

Cons: They’re the least visually appealing, and they can be a bit of a pain to get in and out of each time, so they’re better for less frequently used cabinets, like your china cabinet. As a practical matter, these run the highest risk of not being replaced by the person who took them off (ahem), so I wouldn’t use them in critical areas, like the cabinets that hold your cleaning supplies.

Safety 1st OutSmart Slide Lock ~$9/ea

The Safety 1st Outsmart line is clever — all of the products have a decoy button (which does nothing), but gives your kiddo a distraction while they’re trying to bust into your cabinets (the real buttons are on the back side). This simple “slide lock” fits on both knobs and pulls off. Easy peasy.

Kiscords Baby Safety Cabinet Locks for Knobs ~$12 for 5

We chose this brand because it’s highly rated and very affordable. You can get a pack of five for about $10, which is a great bargain. They make one for knobs and one for handles (below).

Kiscords Baby Safety Cabinet Locks for Handles ~$13 for 4

These work for any handles (with closed ends) between 1-5/8″ and 7″ apart. Opens easily and hangs in place to be re-secured.

That’s all for cabinets and drawers, folks — happy babyproofing!

Back to: Babyproofing Index

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If you live in a multi-story home, you’ll need gates as soon as your little one starts crawling around (or scooting) — usually around 7-8 months. Carpeted stairs are more forgiving, but wooden stairs can be fairly treacherous, especially for babies wearing socks.

Concrete stairs (found in stoops and some basements) are the most dangerous: a fall from these could result in serious head trauma—or worse. Block those suckers off like a crime scene.

Essentially, there are two types of interior baby gates: hardware-mounted and pressure-mounted.

Hardware-Mounted Kid Gates

Hardware mounted gates are screwed securely into your wall, door frame, or banister/balustrade and are the most secure of the two types. These gates should be used where the stakes are the highest (i.e., where you can’t risk it falling over), such as the top of stairs.

Pros of hardware-mounted baby gates:

• Can support your baby’s weight without slipping; unlikely to be rammed/toppled by larger dogs
• No bottom threshold (typically) to trip over
• The only safe choice for the top of stairs

Cons of hardware-mounted baby gates:

• Cannot be taken down in a hurry (unless they have a quick release feature)
• Installation is more time consuming than for pressure-mounted gates
• Leaves holes in walls/woodwork when removed

Pressure-Mounted Baby Gates

The vast majority of baby gates on the market are pressure (or tension) mounted. Much like a tension rod for your shower curtain, they are very easy to install.

Pros of pressure-mounted baby gates:

• Easy to set up and move from place to place
• Don’t have to screw into your walls/banister (okay for bottom of stairs)
• Cheaper (usually)
• Larger selection

Cons of pressure-mounted baby gates:

• Can slip and fall under a baby’s weight if not installed correctly
• Big dogs can bust through them
• Should not be used to divide areas with a height/ground level difference, like the top of stairs

Certification

Ideally, you should get a gate that is certified by the JPMA (Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association). All the gates listed below are JPMA certified (except for Carlson). The standards for JPMA specify that the gate should be no less than 22 inches tall, that the distance between the bottom of the gate and the floor should be less than 3 inches (so there’s minimal risk of a head or neck getting stuck) etc., etc.

Our favorite brands of baby gates include North States, Cardinal Gates, Evenflo, Safety 1st, Summer Infant, KidCo, Regalo, Carlson, Retract-A-Gate and Dreambaby. All things being equal, my favorite brand is Toddleroo by North States.

Avoid cheap imports from Alibaba and other discount stores.

Pets

A few notes about pets… if you have a small pet that you don’t want to keep out of gated areas, you can get a gate with a pet door that will allow small pets to pass through while keeping small humans out. I wish I could say the same for bigger dogs, but sadly, if your bigger dog could get through, then so could your baby.

On the other hand, if you‘re trying to keep your pet out, make sure you choose a gate that’s sturdy enough (i.e., hardware-mounted) so your dog doesn’t come busting through like the Kool-Aid man. Keep in mind that many cats (and dogs!) can jump pretty high, so look for an extra-tall gate, like the one below, if you have a jumper to contend with.

One last thing — if you have a dog that loves to chew, steer clear of wooden gates. Puppies and other chewers will eat these gates for breakfast.

Buying Used Baby Gates

There are many used baby gates available on FB Marketplace, local consignment stores, and such. Provided that the gate works properly, the big risk is that you won’t get all the parts and pieces that go with it (this is more of an issue with hardware-mounted gates that come with a bag of hardware and other accoutrements).

However, if you’re sure you have all the parts and the gate looks to be in good shape, there’s no reason not to buy used.

Measuring the Opening

Most standard sized baby gates will fit securely in a “normal” sized doorway or hallway opening, which is generally 32″-36″ wide.

Wouldn’t it be great if all openings were a standard size, ha!

There are many situations that require an extra-wide gate, especially in modern homes with open floor plans. For that, please see the section below on extra-wide gates, which go up to 60″-72″ wide.

For really large openings, consider using an open-ended accordion fold gate, like the one below from MidWest Pet. This gate served us well over the years for cordoning off areas like Christmas trees, dangerous hearths, and at times Alice (and our dog, for that matter) out of our dirt garden (we used two in that situation, about 35 linear feet).

We also used it to make a fence off our bed after our dog had surgery so she wasn’t tempted to jump up and re-injure herself (our pets are our kids too, right? Yes). Honestly, this gate has probably been the most useful one we’ve owned.

Anywho.

Grab your tape measure and let’s get started!

Top Baby Gates

Step Over Baby Gates

“Step over” gates are cheap and easy to install, but a huge pain to, well… step over. They’re great for travel and for other “temporary” installations, but not ideal for high traffic areas. Also, it’s really un-fun to climb over it with a baby in your arms every time, just sayin’…

Our favorite is the…

Summer Infant Secure Pressure Mount Deco Gate ~$23

Height: 24″, Width range: 28″-42″

This wood and plastic gate is the favorite of the cheapie gates. It looks decently nice, is super easy to install (pressure mounted), and has bumpers to protect your walls. Again, this is what I call a step over gate (for lack of a better term), which is not a great long-term solution for high traffic areas. But for temporary installations and low traffic areas? It works just fine.

* This won’t work for older kids who need to get through the gate because they simply aren’t tall enough to climb over it.

Walk-Through Baby Gates

A. Pressure-Mounted Walk-Through Baby Gates (standard width)

1. Toddleroo by North States Bright Choice Auto-Close Baby Gate ~$79

Height: 30″, Width range: 29″ to 40″ (extends to 62.25″ with extensions sold separately)

All things being equal, our #1 favorite baby gate is the Toddleroo by North States Easy-Close. This self-closing, one-handed open steel gate swings both ways, has a hold-open feature, requires no assembly. Check, check, check!

We also appreciate the built-in door stopper that lets you choose whether you can swing the gate in both directions or just one. There’s also a glow in the dark feature on the handle, which can come in handy at night.

2. Carlson Wide Gate with Pet Door ~$39

Height: 30.5″, Width range: 29″-36.5″

Whether you own a pet or not, the Carlson Extra-Wide Gate is another mommy-favorite baby gate, with a pet door. The pet door allows cats (and small dogs) to pass through, while keeping bigger dogs and small humans out. This is a great solution for the doorway leading to the room where you keep the cat’s food and litter box and other gross things you don’t want your baby/toddler getting into.

The pressure-mounted gate setup is easy and fast, and the one-touch release handle is very convenient (you see this gate a lot at daycares and such). Comes standard with a 4-in extension kit for extra wide openings.

3. Dreambaby Chelsea Extra Tall Auto-Close Gate ~$83

Height: 39.4″, Width range: 28-32″ (variable sizes offered, can extend up to 88″)

Another mommy favorite, at 39.4″ (~1 meter) high, this extra-tall baby gate is perfect for those with tenacious climbers, older toddlers, and wily pets at home. Parents can open this gate with one hand, and best of all, it swings closed and locks automatically. Thus, this is a great gate for high-risk areas (but not for the top of stairs because it has a threshold). Banister gate adapters (y-shaped) sold separately. Perfect for the bottom of stairs.

Comes in white or black steel. Note: Extensions are sold separately.

4. Regalo Easy Step Extra Tall Walk-Through Gate ~$44

Height: 36″, Width range: 29″-36.5″

The Regalo Deluxe Easy Step Extra Tall Gate is another favorite extra-tall gate option. Like the Dreambaby gate (above), it has a one-handed open and lock feature, and yet is easy for older children to operate (thus, it’s a great choice if you have slightly older kids who you want to be able to get through). Also contains larger dogs very well, especially notorious gate-jumpers.

5. Summer Infant Gates

Summer Infant makes some of my favorite gates — there are a couple winners to choose from:

Summer Infant Decorative Extra Tall Gate ~$89

Height: 36″, Width range: 28.5″-48″

I have two of these at home and have used them for both of my children. This gate is really easy to open with one hand and intuitive for guests (some of them are shockingly hard to figure out). It closes and locks automatically (provided you open it wide enough for it to swing back with some oomph). The package includes optional hardware if you’d like to arrange for more secure mounting. Best of all, it’s really good-looking in your foyer.

Summer Infant Anywhere Decorative Walk-Thru Gate ~$66

Height: 30″, Width range: 28″-42.5″

Another good-looking option (walnut/charcoal) is the Summer Infant Anywhere Decorative Walk-Thru Gate. It offers a pressure-mounted installation for between rooms with hardware included for use at the top of stairs (though not ideal because it has a bottom threshold). Parents like the nice look, simple installation, and the sturdiness of this gate.

B. Hardware-Mounted Walk-Through Baby Gates (standard width)

1. Cardinal Auto-Lock Gate ~ $89

Height: 29.5″, Width range: 26.5″-40.5″

The Cardinal Auto-Lock Gate is a parent favorite. Specifically, people love the auto-lock feature, which they can actually *hear* as it engages. This gate swings in either direction and is perfect for the bottom or top of stairs. Installation is quick and easy.

2. Retract-A-Gate ~$134+

Height: 34″, Width range: 52″-72″

Made in the USA and winner of multiple parenting awards, the Retract-A-Gate is (yes, gulp) pretty expensive, but oh-so-cool. This gate automatically rewinds to a small roll when not in use, leaving your doorway totally open. It’s JPMA-certified for use at the top or bottom of stairs and can be installed on your stair posts or spindles without drilling holes when used with their Stair Banister Adapter Kit ($52).

What strikes me most about this gate is how quiet it is, compared to the clanging and banging of wood and metal gates. If you like a discrete gate (who doesn’t??) and can afford the price tag, definitely check out Retract-A-Gate.

Best Baby Gates for Stairs (top of stairs, specifically)

The top of stairs is a special area. Ideally, you want a hardware-mounted gate with no threshold to trip over. Gates installed here should open toward the upstairs (instead of swinging out over the stairs) and should have a mechanism that prevents it from doing so. Ideally, your top-of-stairs gate would also have an auto-close/auto-lock feature in case you forget, but not all of them offer this.

Note that stairways can be extra tricky due to oddly shaped banisters (although, this occurs most often at the bottom of stairs where you’ll find radius banisters and such). If you have a radius banister (or if you don’t want to drill into your banister), you’ll have to do some *imagineering* to get your gate installed correctly.

A couple of options for working with curved banisters: you can use banister clamps, or pick up a ready-to-go kit, such as the Stairway Gate Installation Kit ($36, shown below) from KidCo. These solutions also prevent you from having to drill into your banister or railing, which is fab!

KidCo also makes a Y-spindle ($12) for pressure-mounted gates that can straddle a spindle in the balustrade, which is great for the bottom of stairs too.

What a pain, yes, but you’ll be happy you figured it out.

1. Regalo Heritage and Home Wooden Safety Gate ~$80

Height: 30″, Width range: 23″-42″

This Regalo Wooden Safety is minimalist and stylish, but more importantly safe and secure. It’s easy to install, swing opens smoothly, and works great with flat banisters and woodwork.

For curved banisters, or if you don’t want to drill into your wood, I recommend…

2. KidCo Top of Stairs Gate ~$58

Height: 30.5″ (when gate is mounted), Installed height: 33.5″ (height needed to install hardware), Width range: 24.75″–43.5″

For a metal option (comes in white or black), the KidCo Safeway Top of Stairs Gate is another solid yet affordable option. For people with funky banister situations, this gate is your best bet because you can buy the gate installation kit ($49), which should work with almost any banister.

A directional stop prevents this gate from swinging out over stairs and a quick-release feature allows it to be taken down (to move furniture and such) in a pinch. Note that the screws that come in the package are known to strip easily, so don’t be afraid to use your own.

Extra-Wide Baby Gates (60″+)

1. Safety 1st Wide Doorways Fabric Gate ~$45

Height: 27″, Width range: 38″-60″

An affordable option to a wood or metal gate, this fabric gate is lightweight and easy to carry — it even comes with a storage bag. Reviewers like this gate’s durability and the ability to see through the fabric to check on baby or pets on the other side. *Great for travel!

2. Summer Infant Decorative Wood & Metal Gate ~$110

Height: 32″, Width range: 36″-60″

Winning in the looks department, the Summer Infant Decorative Wood and Metal Gate is great looking and easy to use. Its wide (26 inch) hinged swinging door opens in either direction. Users appreciate the smooth, one-handed open and close mechanism, although some complain that the latch is a bit loud to open and close. This package includes three extensions, which take it up to a whopping 5 feet wide.

3. Toddleroo by North States Extra Wide Deluxe Decor ~$85

Height: 30″, Width range: 38″-72″

I LOVE this gate!!! The North States Extra Wide Deluxe Decor Gate is hardware-mounted on straight or angled walls. It has an easy one-hand operation, stay-open feature, and a double locking system.

We used this gate outside on our deck (out of sheer desperation) because I couldn’t find an outdoor gate wide enough to keep my (then) 1-year-old from tumbling down the deck stairs onto the hard concrete driveway — it worked great!

Using it outside is neither recommended nor approved by the manufacturer (heh), but it worked really well and didn’t rust in the elements (well, maybe a little), which is testament to its quality.

Playpens

A Pack ‘n Play (or other play yard) is a suitable solution for a playpen for a baby who’s not yet climbing over the crib. You can also get larger play yards (which are easier to move from place to place), like the beloved and spacious Joovy Room2.

A better solution is a large playpen, which works especially well for two or more kids (in a nanny-share, for example) so they can entertain each other.

1. Toddleroo by North States Superyard, 6 panel ~$79 or 8 panel ~$82

Height: 26″, Size: 6-panel size encloses up to 18.5 sq ft; 8-panel encloses 34.4 sq ft

The North States Superyard is a fun, safe spot for kids to play. The non-slip feet work on any surface. And there is a two-panel extension available for purchase separately ($34).

Weather resistant, the Superyard can also be used outside and cleans very easily. A carry handle makes this lightweight yard very portable. (Made of plastic.)

2. Kidzone Playpen ~$164

Size: 8 panels

If you really want to step it up, this Kidzone Playpen has a swinging hinged door with a safety lock, a picture house, spinning balls, etc. We used something similar to this (no longer available) at my nanny-share partner’s house and it worked great. She took it apart and used the components to cordon off areas of her apartment where she didn’t want the kids to go. Genius.

3. Regalo 192″ Super Wide Play Yard ~$99

Size: Encloses 19 sq ft

The Regalo Play Yard comes with eight removable and configurable panels that enclose 19 square feet. This steel play yard expands to become a 192-inch wall mounted gate or free standing barrier (much like the one I discussed up top).

It folds down for simple set up and storage, and you can attach as many panels as you’d like to create a larger play area. A few reviewers mentioned that the connectors broke, so check to see everything is in good condition before playtime.

Outdoor/Exterior Baby Gates

Cardinal Gates Outdoor Gate ~$84

Height: 29.5″, Width range: 27″-42.5″

We’ve used the Cardinal Gates Outdoor Gate at two different houses now, and it works great. The gate is made of aluminum (translation: rustproof), although it will fade a little in the sun. This is a one-handed gate with an optional stop bracket, which prevents it from opening over a stairway. This gate will mount at angles up to 30 degrees, and is perfect for the top of stairs, decks, porches, etc.

You can buy extensions separately (10.5 inch for $29 & 21.5 inch for $35 — temporary out of stock), which we’ve also used.

This is the only outdoor gate that I know of… but you might be able to get away with using others outside for a season (or longer!) — just no guarantees.

That’s all, folks!

Next: Cabinet and Drawer Locks

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