Are Retractable Baby Gates Any Good & Are They Safe?
Babyproofing your home is essential to keep your little one safe. Aside from adding childproof locks to doors and cabinets, consider baby gates.
There are different types, but retractable safety gates can be more versatile than fixed plastic, wood, or metal gates. They can ‘disappear’ when you don’t need them and can easily go back ‘on duty’ when you do.
Many are also adjustable and can extend to cover wide spaces.
But are retractable gates good enough to keep your baby safe within their designated spaces?
The good news is that, yes, they can be safe and work as intended as long as they’re properly installed and used within the manufacturer’s limits (affected by your child’s height and age).
Below are our top picks to help you choose the best safety gates for your home.
Which brands have high-quality retractable gates, meet safety standards, and have childproof locking mechanisms, yet are easy for you to operate? Are there also retractable gates that you can use for wide spaces (over 50”)?
Keep reading to learn more.
How To Choose The Best Retractable Baby Gates
Safety
There are different types of retractable gates (see below), and it’s best to consider what space you’re blocking and where you’ll place the baby product for added safety.
Note that retractable gates are usually ideal for blocking the bottom of the stairs but might be unsafe for the top. Some products are rated for use on top of the stairs (double-check before buying and installing the products above your stairs).
They can be best suited for wide openings, such as keeping your children out of the kitchen or within your deck and porch.
For added safety, check for features such as childproof locking systems, durable mesh fabric or blocking materials, and baby-safe designs.
It’s also important to check if your baby gate can be installed on drywall (construction material made of gypsum plaster and heavy paper or fiberglass mats) instead of concrete. You will need a drywall anchor kit (usually sold separately) if your walls are made of this material.
Read the MC health & safety philosophy for guidance in keeping your home and family safe.
Product Safety Certifications
If possible, choose baby products with the following certifications to ensure that they’re designed, manufactured, and tested for your little one’s safety:
- JPMA-certified (Juvenile Product Manufacturers Association)
- ASTM F1004-certified (American Society of Testing and Materials Gates & Enclosures standards)
Types Of Retractable Baby Gates
Screw-Fit & Mesh Safety Roller Baby Gates
Usually mounted to the wall with screws, this safety gate has a soft yet durable mesh screen that keeps your baby from pushing through or even climbing over.
The mesh gate can have the smallest footprint.
It doesn’t have a bottom base, which can cause tripping with pressure-mounted gates. The mesh fabric is usually soft enough to roll back into the designated container, reducing clutter.
Pressure-Fit Baby Stair Gates
(FMOGG Baby Safety Gate Retractable & Portable Dog Gate)
Consider a pressure mount if you prefer a baby gate that doesn’t require drilling into your banister or walls.
This U-shaped baby gate doesn’t require mounting hardware but can be a tripping hazard because of its protruding base when not in use.
Travel & Portable Retractable Baby Gates
(Baby Delight Go with Me Portable Mesh Baby Gate)
This is a variant of the pressure-fit baby gate. It’s designed to make it easier for parents like you to secure a safe space for your baby during a trip, but it might not be durable or heavy-duty enough for daily use.
Best Value For Your Money
Other factors to help you determine whether it’s worth your money:
- Price
- Durability
- Size – fits openings you need to secure (be sure to measure the space where you’ll place the gate)
- Clear instructions for setting up
- Versatility
- Portability
- Fits or matches your home decor
- Customer reviews
- Recalls
Average Height
The average height for baby safety gates is from 28” to 32”.
Some can go as high as 36”, but be careful in choosing these because the taller height can make the fall worse if your child can climb over the gate.
The 6 Best Retractable Baby Safety Gates
- Retract-A-Gate Safety Gate by Smart Retract – JPMA-certified mesh baby safety gate, available in different sizes, can be used for the top of the stairs, and suitable for indoor or outdoor use
- The Stair Barrier Baby & Pet Gate – Stylish ASTM-certified fabric safety gate (with different prints to match your home decor), customizable (varied sizes, styles, and installation options depending on your needs), suitable for the top of the stairs, and with options for outdoor fabrics (with a custom order)
- BabyDan Guard Me Auto-Retractable Safety Gate – ASTM and European standard-certified smart (auto-close/retract) baby gate with a durable plastic-based safety door that can be extended using Extend-A-Guard additions (sold separately) and installed at the top of the stairs
- Perma Child Outdoor Retractable Gate – Versatile mesh fabric baby gate available in different sizes (longest and widest on our list), UV-resistant mesh (ultraviolet; prevents fading), suitable for indoor and outdoor use, and can be used for the top of the stairs
- Dreambaby Retractable Baby Gate – Adjustable mesh fabric gate with two mounting bracket sets (can be easily moved between these installed mounts), UV-treated mesh fabric, suitable for indoor or outdoor use, and for installation at the top of the stairs
- Babepai Retractable Baby Gate Door – Adjustable mesh fabric gate (auto close), includes two sets of mounting brackets (for portability), and suitable for indoor or outdoor use
Keep on reading for a more detailed review of these retractable baby gates.
Retract-A-Gate Safety Gate by Smart Retract
What Makes It Special?
- Best features: Certified for up to 200 lbs of push force, with scratch-resistant mesh fabric; can be used for the top and bottom of the stairs
- Type: Retractable gate (auto-close/retract) with mesh screen
- Capabilities: Adjustable width; suitable for indoor and outdoor use
- Portability: Not portable; this product has wall mounts that need to be secured into place
- One-hand operation: Yes; push-and-turn mechanism
Materials & Safety Features:
- Material: Metal and mildew-resistant mesh fabric
- Safety features: Childproof lock; free from toxic materials such as lead, latex, phthalate, BPA (bisphenol-A), and formaldehyde
- Other extra features: Rust-resistant mounting hardware and metal parts; can be installed at different angles (such as the corner of an opening or diagonally) and in wide areas
Other Specifications & Special Features
- Dimensions: Available in two sizes at 72” x 3” x 34” and 52” x 3” x 34”
- Warranty: One year warranty from the purchase date (only applies to the original owner/purchaser); 30-day returns for clean, undamaged, and odor-free products
- Quality/safety certifications: JPMA certified and meets ASTM F1004
- Made in: USA
Product Recall
- None
Cons
- Can be pricey
- Some complaints about product quality and babies or pets being able to crawl underneath the gate
What Customers Say
Positive Reviews
“The smart retract gate is a good system for keeping children and pets out of unwanted areas. Once it is installed you can activate it quickly and easily.” – Reviewer on Retract-A-Gate
Negative Reviews
“We were hopeful that this gate would be failproof on our stairs, but even following the instructions to a T and installing it 6″ back from the top step, my 17 month old son is consistently able to squeeze underneath it.” – Reviewer on Amazon
The Stair Barrier Baby & Pet Gate
What Makes It Special?
- Best features: Stylish safety gate (with different prints to match your home decor); custom-made gates also available, with varied sizes or styles depending on your needs
- Type: Retractable baby safety gate with fabric barrier; can be used on the top or bottom of the stairs and other narrow or wide areas
- Capabilities: Different installation options, depending on the product you buy (e.g., wall to banister, wall to wall, banister to banister, etc.); doesn’t require two flat surfaces for installation
- Portability: Not portable (wall-mounted safety gates); portable (banister-to-banister baby gates)
- One-hand operation: Yes for wall-to-wall installation; no for banister installation (requires unbuckling of three dual-sided release buckles placed on one side)
Materials & Safety Features:
- Material: Metal, plastic, and structurally reinforced, sustainable fabrics
- Safety features: Odor and stain-resistant fabrics; free from harsh and toxic chemicals
- Other extra features: Customizable, with fabrics suitable for outdoor use (upon request); can be installed up to a 30-degree angle
Other Specifications & Special Features
- Dimensions: 32” x 36” to 52” (or longer, with custom orders)
- Warranty: Not indicated
- Quality/safety certifications: ASTM F1004 and the Standard Consumer Safety Specifications for Expansion Gates & Expandable Enclosures
- Made in: USA
Product Recall
- None
Cons
- Can be pricey
What Customers Say
Positive Reviews
“Beautiful solution for childproofing! Our curious and very active son has completely given up on the stairs and we’re happy he’s safe! The fabric is a great quality and blends seamlessly into our home decor. Super easy to install and adjust.” – Reviewer on The Stair Barrier
Negative Reviews
“The look is great and it serves its purpose but the mounts seem shaky and not very sturdy. Definitely stops my son from going down the stairs but something way cheaper would do that too.” – Reviewer on The Stair Barrier
BabyDan Guard Me Auto-Retractable Safety Gate 
What Makes It Special?
- Best features: Smart baby gate with a durable plastic-based safety door; can be installed at the top and bottom of the stairs
- Type: Retractable gate (auto-close/retract) with plastic folds
- Capabilities: Can be installed inside or outside the door frame; expandable
- Portability: Not portable; requires wall mounting
- One-hand operation: Yes
Materials & Safety Features:
- Material: ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) plastic, nylon, and steel
- Safety features: Quick-release double safety latch; free from PVC (polyvinyl chloride)
- Other extra features: Nearly invisible when not in use
Other Specifications & Special Features
- Dimensions: 35” x 2” x 28.5” to 36.2” (can extend to up to 45.6” with Extend-A-Guard, sold separately)
- Warranty: One year from the date of purchase
- Quality/safety certifications: Cradle to Cradle Certified (for child-safe products), FSC-certified (Forest Stewardship Council) wood, American standard ASTM F1004-18, and European standard EN 1930:2020
- Made in: Denmark
Product Recall
- None
Cons
- Some complaints about product quality, including one that got “locked forever” after just a few months of use
- Indoor use only
What Customers Say
Positive Reviews
“The gate along with the included three extension pieces and the optional 9.5” extension work extremely well and appear to be constructed so they will be long lasting.” – Reviewer on Amazon
Negative Reviews
“Locked forever, doesn t unlock only after 3 months of use. Quite expensive, poor quality.” – Reviewer on Amazon
Perma Child Outdoor Retractable Gate
What Makes It Special?
- Best features: Widest retractable gate on our list, available in four different sizes, and includes spacers with marking guides (most brands sell spacers separately)
- Type: Retractable safety gate with mesh fabric; can be used for the top of the stairs
- Capabilities: Adjustable; suitable for indoor and outdoor use
- Portability: Not portable; requires hardware installation
- One-hand operation: Yes
Materials & Safety Features:
- Material: Rust-proof metal parts, ABS plastic, and UV-resistant mesh
- Safety features: Three-way locking, with manual tensioning
Other Specifications & Special Features
- Dimensions: Four different size options: 33” x 55”, 33” x 71”, 41” x 71” (tall baby gate), and 38.6” x 79” (widest baby gate)
- Warranty: Two-year extended warranty (for products bought from Perma Child’s official website);30-day returns
- Quality/safety certifications: Guaranteed child-safe by ASTM and EN standards
- Made in: China
Product Recall
- None
Cons
- Not suitable for the top of the stairs
- Some complaints about installation difficulties (but others also praised it for being easy to install)
What Customers Say
Positive Reviews
“Very easy to install and use. Good quality; looks nice.” – Reviewer on Perma Child Safety
Negative Reviews
“Too hard to install, and don’t like how it locks between opening and closing.” – Reviewer on Perma Child Safety
Dreambaby Retractable Baby Gate
What Makes It Special?
- Best features: Comes with two sets of mounting brackets for use in two different places; can be installed on the top or bottom of the stairs
- Type: Retractable gate with mesh fabric
- Capabilities: Adjustable width; can be used indoors and outdoors
- Portability: Partially portable; can be unclipped and moved between the two spaces that you attached the mounting brackets to
- One-hand operation: Yes (as the manufacturer claims); however, some users complained that it’s difficult to operate this with one hand
Materials & Safety Features:
- Material: Plastic, metal, and UV-treated mesh fabric
- Safety features: Press-and-turn locking system
- Other extra features: Can be installed at angles or in inner and outer areas of door frames and other openings
Other Specifications & Special Features
- Dimensions: 32” x 3” x up to 55”
- Warranty: 12 months from the purchase date
- Quality/safety certifications: Not indicated
- Made in: China
Product Recall
- None
Cons
- Some complaints about the gate’s one-hand operation
- In 2018, European consumer watchdog Which? marked this product “potentially unsafe” for reportedly failing EU (European Union) safety standards. “Fatigue” tests to check for the product’s durability showed that the gate can fail after about 10 force applications. The product hasn’t been recalled in the EU or US despite this report. In response, Dreambaby explained that complaints about their product are rare but are investigated immediately once received. (1)
What Customers Say
Positive Reviews
“It takes up only a small amount of space and is much more convenient to have around. It works well to keep our dogs and baby in certain areas.” – Reviewer on Amazon
Negative Reviews
“This gate sucks i Wouldn’t recommend it. Not easy to use one handed and loud. Installation was stupid. Id love to return it.” – Reviewer on Walmart
Babepai Retractable Baby Gate Door
What Makes It Special?
- Best features: Includes two sets of mounting brackets for use in two different places
- Type: Retractable gate with mesh fabric
- Capabilities: Adjustable width (auto retract); can be used indoors and outdoors
- Portability: Partially portable; can be moved between two places where you mounted the hardware
- One-hand operation: Yes, with some complaints about difficulty in operating this with one hand
Materials & Safety Features:
- Material: Metal and mesh fabric
- Safety features: Childproof double locking mechanism
Other Specifications & Special Features
- Dimensions: 34” x 5” x up to 54”
- Warranty: Not indicated
- Quality/safety certifications: Not indicated
- Made in: China
Product Recall
- None
Cons
- Not suitable for the top of the stairs
- Some complaints about issues with one-handed operation
What Customers Say
Positive Reviews
“This baby gate is really easy to install and comes with extra install brackets so that it can be moved from room to room. It’s locking feature ensures that my two year old doesn’t go where I don’t want him to be.” – Reviewer on Amazon
Negative Reviews
“What I do not like about them is how much effort it requires to unlatch them and to relatch them. I always have full hands when I need to get through.” – Reviewer on Amazon
Summary & Recommendations
What’s The Best Retractable Baby Gate?
The best product to get for your home depends on your needs. Here are our recommendations:
Choose Retract-A-Gate Safety Gate by Smart Retract if you’re looking for:
- JPMA-certified mesh baby safety gate
- Different sizes
- Can be used for the top of the stairs
- Suitable for indoor or outdoor use
The Stair Barrier Baby & Pet Gate if you want:
- Stylish ASTM-certified fabric safety gate (with prints matching your home decor)
- Fully customizable (different styles, sizes, and installation options based on your needs)
- Suitable for the top of the stairs
- Options for outdoor fabrics (custom order)
BabyDan Guard Me Auto-Retractable Safety Gate if you prefer:
- ASTM and European standard-certified smart (auto-close/retract) baby gate
- Durable plastic-based safety door
- Extendable (requires Extend-A-Guard additions; sold separately)
- Suitable for the top of the stairs
Perma Child Outdoor Retractable Gate if you want:
- Versatile mesh fabric baby gate
- Different sizes (the longest and widest on our list)
- UV-resistant mesh
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
- Can be used for the top of the stairs
Dreambaby Retractable Baby Gate if you’re looking for:
- Adjustable and semi-portable mesh fabric gate(two sets of mounting brackets)
- UV-treated mesh fabric
- Suitable for indoor or outdoor use
- Can be installed at the top of the stairs
Babepai Retractable Baby Gate Door if you’re searching for:
- Adjustable mesh fabric gate (auto close)
- Semi-portable (two sets of mounting brackets)
- Suitable for indoor or outdoor use
Is Retract-A-Gate Worth It?
Yes. Even with its high price tag, Retract-A-Gate products can offer the best value for your money thanks to these features:
- JPMA-certified for your child’s safety
- Durability
- Easy availability (plenty of shops to get it from)
- Versatility (different sizes available)
- Can be installed in various areas, including on the top of the stairs
- Indoor and outdoor use
The Longest Retractable Baby Safety Gate
Available in different sizes (e.g., up to 79” wide), the Perma Child Outdoor Retractable Gate is the longest and widest retractable gate on our list.
However, considering that you can order custom-made retractable gates (with structurally reinforced fabrics) from The Stair Barrier Baby & Pet Gate, this can technically be the brand with the longest products.
Installation Tips & Considerations
Where Should I Put My Baby’s Retractable Safety Gates?
When babyproofing your home, add safety gates to places your baby shouldn’t get out from, such as:
- Nursery
- Doors leading outside your home
- Any baby-proofed room
Also, consider adding retractable gates to any place that a young child shouldn’t enter, such as the following:
- Bathroom
- Kitchen
- Porch
- Deck
Are Retractable Gates Good For The Top Of The Stairs?
It depends on the product, but many retractable gates are only suitable for the bottom of the stairs.
Always double-check and only use a baby gate designed for the top of the stairs for this potentially dangerous spot.
Can I Place A Retractable Gate At The Bottom Of The Porch Stairs Or A Deck?
It’s best to only use outdoor retractable baby gates for the bottom of your porch stairs or deck.
Products made for indoor use only might easily warp or get damaged with outdoor use where they’re exposed to the elements.
FAQs
Which One Should I Get: A Pressure-Mounted Or A Retractable Gate?
It actually depends on your needs, what suits your home better, and other important factors:
- Consider pressure-mounted baby gates for narrow spaces with sturdy spots for mounting, such as wooden door frames.
- Try retractable gates for wider spaces, such as wide openings for kitchens.
- Retractable gates are still ideal for narrow spaces, but ensure you can attach this securely with screws on the wall or door frame.
Can I DIY A Retractable Safety Gate?
No, unless you’re an experienced professional builder using expert-approved blueprints.
If not, then it’s best to buy a ready-made safety gate. While you might save money creating your safety gate from scratch, it might compromise your baby’s safety.
Can Babies Crawl Under A Retractable Gate?
Yes, if the gate is installed too high or not tightly/tautly enough (in the case of products with adjustable widths).
Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations on how high you should install the retractable gates.
If your home’s baseboards get in the way, consider adding spacers (made from wood or plastic) as thick as the baseboards between the frame and your wall. Spacers are usually sold separately.
Adding a spacer can create a strong, flat vertical surface for mounting the gate instead of installing it high or cutting off some of the baseboards.
Can Babies Rip A Retractable Gate’s Mesh If They Push On It?
Retractable gates are supposed to have durability that can withstand children’s energetic nature and attempts to get past the barrier.
However, it’s essential to regularly check yours for compromised sections that might give in if your child pushes hard enough.
Also, it’s always a good idea to choose retractable gates made by reputable, JPMA or ASTM-certified brands, which are tested for these safety factors.
Are Wooden Retractable Gates Safe?
Wooden safety gates such as the Evenflo Expansion Walk-Thru Swing-Wide Gate & Room Divider can be sturdier than gates made of mesh fabric.
However, these designs might be unsafe because your toddler can use the slats to climb to the top of the gate, defeating its purpose.
This might be ideal for babies or pets, but be sure to change to a different gate once your baby tries climbing it.
When Should I Stop Using Baby Safety Gates?
Many baby gates are recommended for up to 24 months old, but when your child climbs to the top of the gate, it’s time to remove it for their safety.
Our Recommendations For Baby Gates
Read our article on baby gates for a more detailed review of the following products:
- Cardinal Gates Model SS-30 Stairway Special (hardware-mounted)
- Dreambaby Nottingham 2-In-1 Gro-Gate (hardware-mounted)
- North States Toddleroo Deluxe Décor Gate (hardware-mounted)
- Regalo Widespan Extra Wide Baby Gate (pressure-mounted)
- Graco Premium Walk-Thru Child Safety Gate (pressure-mounted)
References
(1) https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/baby-stair-gate-unsafe-which-warning-parents-lindam-safetots-dreambaby-a8585721.html
