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A baby gate is an important safety product that prevents migrating toddlers from throwing themselves into a cucumber. There are many versions on the market, but not all will best suit your needs. Below are six expert tips to help you choose the perfect baby gate for your family.
Which safety features are most important for baby gates?
- Look for a JPMA certification.
The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association seals all certified baby products. This means that the product has been tested by an independent third-party facility and meets the requirements ASTM International guidelines. ASTM International was formerly known as the American Society for Testing and Materials and is an organization that creates and sells technical standards for a wide variety of products.
- Understand the safety standards and check the openings.
ASTM International gets specific with standards and addresses issues involving the bottom clearance of a baby gate. If the standards are met, the distance between the bottom of the gate and the floor should be less than three inches to avoid your baby’s head or torso getting stuck. Also the baby Gate slots should also be three inches apart. to prevent small arms and legs from getting stuck.
- Avoid using certain gate styles.
Accordion style gates If there are missing upper fill bars and gates with horizontal slats (which can be used as step stools), your baby is at risk. If you want to buy a baby gate with mesh inserts, just choose a fine fabric – Anything that is perforated too far can pinch your baby’s fingers and toes and provide a support for your baby to climb.
How big does a baby gate have to be?
Your baby gate should be in accordance with ASTM International standards at least 22 cm tall. However, this is a standard guideline, and you should consider your baby’s size to reduce the risk of them climbing over the gate.
As your baby grows, customize your Baby Gate product. Always look for a gate that is at least the size of your baby. However, once your child is two or three years old, you probably no longer need a baby gate.
How to Choose Baby Gate Materials?
Baby gates are made of different materials:
Some plastic options can contain chemicals and other toxins that are unsafe for your baby. To avoid purchasing such a product, look for labels that indicate it PVC-free from polyvinyl chloride.
Wood is a popular choice for many reasons, including its lighter weight and Forgive edges if / when your toddler comes across it. However, there is also an unfinished wooden gate Ideal if you want to color it or paint it to match your existing interior.
Metal gates are The safest, most durable and most robust material used for baby gates. They can be placed anywhere and if your interior is minimalist or industrial a metal gate will fit right in.
What are the different types of baby gates?
- Pressure-mounted baby gate.
This baby gate style is super easy to install – you just place it in a door frame or between two walls and it’s held in place with pressure. This is a great option if you need to a mobile baby gate You can quickly grab it and move to another room. However, it is important to understand that this style of gate is not attached to the wall or door frame not quite sure. To fix this problem, only use this type of baby gate in places where falls are unlikely and No way Place this baby gate on top of your stairs.
- Hardware-mounted baby gate.
This style of gate is anchored to your walls with both of them Brackets or screws, That means you can trust its security – this style won’t shift when your baby pats on it. This is the safer of the two options and should be used in rooms where falls are likely. The top of the stairs should have a hardware-mounted baby gate.
How to Choose Baby Gate Colors?
Some gate materials may not have the aesthetics you’re looking for, but you have a few options to fix this. Unfinished wood can be matched to your decor with a little paint or your favorite stain. Although you will find that many gates have neutral colors, there are styles that include colors. For example, colored metal can provide you with a safe, sturdy gate that also doubles as an accent element for your overall color scheme.
How do you choose the right baby gate bolt?
Some baby gates are equipped with double-acting latch, That said, you need to press down with one hand before you can let go of it. Have other styles Pressure relief handles that can be lifted to open with one hand. Some doors have additional security features, such as: a display panel this clearly shows when the baby gate is securely locked. You can test different baby gate bolts in the store – if you choose the right bolt for you, Make sure it can be easily opened by non-baby members of your household. But it is not easy for your baby to wiggle and figure out.
Last word
Understanding the safety standards is the most important aspect in choosing the right baby gate for your needs. There are a number of guidelines you can use to decide which type of gate you need. When you bring your new baby gate home, take the time it takes to follow the installation instructions to avoid any danger. And don’t forget to lock your new baby gate every time you leave the room!
