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Best for Top of StairsBaby Gates
Cardinal Gates Stairway Special
The heavy-duty, hardware-mounted gate purpose-built to guard the most dangerous spot in the house.
82
NewMom Index
82 / 100
Price range $$$
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The verdict
For the top of a staircase, this is the gate we'd trust. It's aluminum, bolts firmly into the wall or banister, has no bottom bar to trip on, and swings only away from the stairs so it can't open over the drop, exactly the kind of setup CPSC recommends for stair tops. Installation is the price you pay: it takes real mounting, and banister posts may need an accessory kit. It's overkill and overpriced for a low-stakes doorway, so save it for the stairs and use cheaper gates elsewhere.
What we love
- ✓Hardware-mounted and rated for the top of stairs
- ✓No bottom bar to trip over
- ✓Lightweight aluminum that won't rust or sag
- ✓Swings away from the staircase for safety
Keep in mind
- –Involved installation, may need a banister mounting kit
- –Premium price
- –Overkill for ordinary doorways
Is the Cardinal Gates Stairway Special right for you?
Guarding the top of a staircase where a hardware-mounted gate is non-negotiable.