Staircase Safety

My hubby was adamant about not using or drilling into any part of the staircase/railing. We found the Kidco product at Babies R Us (the white metal gate and components) and purchased extra extensions. Then we were able to arrange the gating slightly behind the stairs and could snake it around and extend it until it reaches the closest two walls. This way, the gate is actually a few inches behind the top of the stairs and securely attached into the studs of nearby walls. The only downside is that it costs more money to buy the extra extensions. I think we spent $90. But I still love having that gate up, keeping the kids away from the stairs and the overlook.

I LOVE the Evenflo "top of stair" wooden gate. I have two (top and bottom). My husband used zip ties to secure 2*2s to the railing (so we don't drill into the wood) and drilled into them to secure the gate. We haven't had any problems and have used them at multiple houses for 5+ years.

It's easy to latch and secure. $40 online at ToysrUs right now.

Good luck!

I would second the Evenflo wooden "top of stairs" gate. I have one at the top and one at the bottom of our stairs. Very secure - have had them in place for ~1 yr now. I also stained them to match our woodwork. We did not want to drill into the nice wood posts that hold our banister, so we bought the kits that secure around posts so when we move one day (or can finally take the gates down) our posts won't be wrecked. The kits I believe are sold by Kidco - just do a search on Google for something like "KidCo gate installation kit" and you'll find them. Yep - just tried it. These kits are the more expensive alternative to the zip ties - but I believe look nicer and might make things more secure if you can afford it.

check out kidsindanger.com which is a watchdog for recalls and safety issues. They may have recommendations on where to go.