When a child starts to crawl or even walk, the first thing that comes to the mind as a parent is the safety of the baby. Such babies are curious such that you have to limit their space or close some spaces to avoid accidents. For instance, it’s very risky for the baby to go to the stairs since they can easily roll over. To avoid accidents, it is wise to invest in a baby gate. In this case, we not only need a baby gate but a retractable baby gate! You may ask why we insist on retractable baby gate rather than any baby gate. The answer is simple; one, this particular gate can be used in both narrow and wide spaces comfortably. Two, when not in use, you can retract it such that it can’t be seen and put it back whenever you need it. Third, its light in weight. Due to these reasons and more you can clearly see the need of this gate.
Since there are so many retractable baby gates in the markets, I have done a thorough research and came up with the best gates such that you won’t have to do a further research. Here’s a review on our top picks.
Best Retractable Baby Gate Reviews
1. Babydan Guard Me Retractable Safety Baby Gate
Our pick
The main reason of buying a retractable gate, is because of the small spaces that you want to keep the baby off. With babydan guard me retractable safety baby gate, you don’t have to worry since it can fit openings between 25.4 and 35 inches inside door frame with an extend-A-guard up to 40.7 inches and 21.77 and 31.2 inches outside door frame with an extend-A- guard up to 40.7 inches. After mounting, the height stands at 28 inches such that no baby can go over it.
Another advantage is that it is ideal for small spaces because you can automatically fold it back when not in use and can be a great space saver in small houses. It’s easy to use since it can be operated using one hand by quickly releasing the double safety latch.
When mounting, you don’t have to worry about the mounting tools since they are included in the package.
Pros
- Can be mounted on both inside or outside of the door frame.
- You can retract it when not in use such that it can’t be seen.
- Very sturdy hence durable.
Cons
- The extending kit is to be bought separately and that means an extra cost.
2. Retract-A-Gate Safety Gate
Our runner up
When buying baby products, always buy certified products to be on the safe side. Retract-A-Gate Safety Gate, is certified by the JPMA so you don’t have to worry when it comes to safety. Also, for the safety of the baby, it has a childproof lock on top that prevents it from opening when the child is playing. It can be used at the top and bottom of the stairs comfortably and even on narrow openings.
When it comes to durability, it’s one of the best since the mesh is scratch resistant and therefore can also be used by cats and dogs without messing the gate. The fabric is sturdy, see through and can be washed when dirty.
The installation is quick and easy and it can be easily operated by an adult using one hand effortlessly and also retracts quietly and can’t wake a sleeping baby. The size of this gate is 3.2 x 3.2 x 39.4 inches with a height of 38 inches.
Pros
- Has a childproof lock
- The mesh is durable and anti-scratch
- Can be used on both top and bottom of stairs
- Certified by the JPMA
Cons
- It’s expensive
3. 2019 New Retractable Baby Gate
When buying a retractable gate, always buy one that can fit all spaces perfectly. 2019 New Retractable Baby Gate is no exemption since it fits entryway securely and snugly. Being 48 inches wide with a height of 33 inches, with separate 2 AC plugs that maximize the protection of your child, this gate will perfectly close the restricted areas.
Another great advantage is that it can also save on space and is recommended in small houses since the mesh lining can be rolled up when not in use. It can be used in large hallways, on top of stairs or against a baseboard with its mounting brackets.
For maximum security, it has multiple locking mechanisms on both sides of the gate and can be easily operated using one hand. To avoid hurting your fingers, the click easy latch system allows you to comfortably open and close the gate and at the same time acting as a barrier.
Pros
- Can close spaces of up to 48 inches wide
- Can be rolled when not in use to create space
- Comes with 2 AC safety plugs
Cons
- Difficult to install according to some users.
4. Dreambaby Retractable Gate
With this gate, you can be able to close all spaces since it can fit up to 55 inches for indoor frames and 51 inches for outdoor frames. In case of baseboards or skirting boards, you can use spacers which are to be purchased separately.
When in use, it opens completely such that there is no maneuvering with gate doors and when not in use, it can be rolled back. To avoid tripping accidents, it has no bottom base or bar. When operating it single handedly, push and turn the button to unlock and release, then hold the handle and gently release the gate. It also alerts you when it is been opened.
Moreover, with the two sets of mounting hardware, it can be used in more than one location. Dreambaby Retractable Gate is made of high-quality mesh and is UV treated to prevent it from fading. It is made of sturdy plastic in the USA and is designed to hold up little hands.
Pros
- Comes with two sets of mounting hardware and hence can be used in more than one location.
- Can be used outdoors since its treated to avoid fading.
- Alerts you when being opened.
- Can be used on the stairway.
Cons
- Spacer kits sold separately.
5. Summer Infant Retractable Baby Gate
Stairways is the most dangerous place that a baby can be left when not attended to. Summer Infant Retractable Baby Gate, erases your worries since it can be used on the stairway and also on other entries. Being a retractable gate, it can be used on narrow entries and wide entries of up to 50 inches wide and has a height of 30 inches and can be retracted back when not in use to create space.
Additionally, it comes with baseboard kits for installation where base boards are available free of charge. With a simple locking lever, push down to lock and pull up to unlock.
This gate is sturdy hence making it durable while the mesh fabric is strong with a decorative pattern and the silver satin finish complements home decor.
Pros
- Fits in most spaces since it fits up to 50 inches wide.
- Easy to install.
- Comes with baseboards kits.
Cons
- The drywall anchors and screws provided are not strong enough.
6. Babepai Retractable Baby Gate Door
With a space that measures 54 inches, this gate can close the space perfectly. Even in narrow spaces, you don’t have to worry since it’s a retractable gate and can be used both indoor and outdoor. The height is 34 inches tall such that babies can’t jump over. Additionally, it comes with full set components for easy installation
Being made of sturdy material, its durable with a soft mesh for the baby’s delicate hands. It can be used on the stairways, room openings or other hazardous entries and when not in use, it can be effortlessly rolled up to create space and way.
For added safety, Babepai Retractable Baby Gate Door has a childproof double locking mechanism. You just need to twist clockwise to lock and anti-clockwise to release the mechanism which can easily be done using one hand.
Pros
- Made of very sturdy material.
- Easy to install.
- Good locking mechanism that baby cannot unlock.
Cons
- Some users claim that it leaves a space at the bottom when used at the top of stairs.
7. Evenflo Soft and Wide Gate
To make sure that this gate doesn’t damage your wall, it is pressure-mounted with rubber bumpers and provides a perfect fit even in walls that are not square.
Being made of metal and cloth, it is sturdy and will last for long. Even after being made of metal, it is well designed such that it is light in weight and portable since it can be rolled up when not in use. It is already assembled and can be used immediately after receiving it with no tools required.
The height of Evenflo Soft and Wide Gate is 27 inches and can be used on spaces measuring between 38 inches to 60 inches wide. This means it can be used even on extra wide spaces. Apart from being used as baby gate, it can also be used for pets.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Made of metal hence sturdy
- Portable
Cons
- Can get weak if assembled and disassembled regularly.
What to Consider When Buying Retractable Baby Gate
Size of the gate/space
Before buying a retractable gate, you should first measure the size of the entryway so that you can buy the perfect size. You should also consider the expandable size of the gate such that it can be used in wider spaces in case you change the location.
Where the gate will be used
Most people buy retractable gates to be used on the stairways. But you should always consult if it can be used on both top and bottom of the stairway because some gates leave a space at the bottom, when used on the top of stairway.
Material of the gate
Always buy a sturdy gate! This is to ensure that the baby cannot push the gate and access the prohibited area. Others can easily break if the child plays with it hence causing injuries. The mesh should also be soft to accommodate the baby’s delicate hands.
Locking mechanism
It’s a good idea to buy a gate which can easily be locked and unlocked with one hand but then, the baby should not be able to open it to avoid accidents.
Wrap Up
Finding a good retractable gate for your baby should not be a difficult task as long as you follow our guide. Remember to consider all the factors I have highlighted above to avoid accidents. In our case we can highly recommend babydan guard me retractable safety baby gate, but since the others we have highlighted are still good, you can do your due diligence in order to purchase the best retractable gate for your little angel.