Why Should I Purchase A Baby Gate

Writen by LynnMarie S.

A baby gate will be one of the most important additions to the home. There will be many potential dangers waiting around every corner for baby whether it is a stair case, fireplace or tables with edges. It is difficult to monitor an active baby every second of the day but neglecting to do so can result in an accident occurring. An accident prevention method and a helping hand in monitoring the child is the purchase of a baby gate. A baby gate is the most practical solution to ensure the safety of the child.

The basic function of a baby gate is to restrict the baby from entering rooms with potential hazards or harms. Baby gates are preferred by almost all parents because they are easy to use and easy to transport. Most gates are easy to move from one room to another and often can be opened with one hand. Baby gates are generally installed in the major entrance areas of the home which often include the top of stairs, in major hallways and often at the doors of the nursery. Some specialized baby gates are free standing and will act as an enclosure to the playing space of the baby.

Baby gates come in two different installation styles: pressure mount and hardware mount. Hardware mounted gates use special hardware to attach to fixtures in the areas of installation. The gate is not transportable and is generally used in an area where baby spends most of the day. Pressure mounted gates are easy to install and don't require any hardware or tools. The gates are often a favorite with parents because of the ease of installation and the portability. Pressure mounted gates leave no indentations on the wall after they are broken down.

Baby gates are made of either wood, metal or plastic. Metal baby gates are a favorite because of their durability and functionality. Metal gates can be used with gate extension kits to add extra coverage. They come in a variety of colors and can be used for years. Wood gates add a natural elegance to any area of installation. Wood gates do not accept gate extension kits. Plastic gates are the most economic and easiest to handle. Plastic gates are lightweight and easy to transport from opening to opening.

Many gates are specialized for specific areas. Extra tall gates are great for pets and for growing children who are becoming more adventurous. Extra wide gates are great for rooms with wide doorways or large spaces which are heavily trafficked. Free standing gates are perfect for keeping the child confined to one specific area of the room. Specialized gates keep the child safe from areas of specific concern like around the fireplace.

Several criteria should be followed when purchasing baby gates. The first thing a parent should do is measure the area where the gate is going to be installed. It is an obvious, yet extremely important step. The second thing is to ensure the gate is the correct type of gate for the area. A doorway gate should not be purchased for the top of stairs. The third thing a parent should do is be sure that the gate is easy to understand and use. It is difficult to operate a gate with a child in one arm and another in tow. Make sure the gate can operated with ease.

About the Author LynnMarie is On-Line Editor for Babyage.com which is one of the top online retailers of Baby Gates including a wide variety of Metal Gates to keep your little one safe.