As soon as your baby starts crawling, your view of the home changes. Suddenly you see dangers where you did not notice them before - and the stairs come first. A safety gate is one of those things parents usually buy once and use for years. To make sure you choose correctly the first time, we have prepared this guide for you.
Why you should not underestimate a gate
Falling down the stairs is one of the most common causes of childhood injuries at home. Small children still do not have a sufficiently developed sense of balance or understanding of height - they simply climb wherever they can. The gate simply eliminates this risk.
But gates are not just for stairs. They are just as practical at the entrance to the kitchen, bathroom, balcony, or any room you do not want children to access. And an added bonus? They work great as a barrier for pets too.
Stair gate vs. door gate - what's the difference?
Monkey Mum® gates are universal — they fit equally well to the staircase (top and bottom end) and into doorways and openings (kitchen, bathroom, hallway, balcony). The installation method is the same for all models.
All gates are attached using locking screws with a plastic nut — by tightening the screw nut, the end rests against the wall or frame and the gate is securely fixed in place. At the end of each screw is a rubberized pad that protects the surface from scratches. No drilling, no holes in the wall.
How to measure the opening correctly
This is the step where people make the most mistakes. A poorly measured opening = a gate that either does not fit or cannot be secured tightly.
The procedure is simple:
Measure the widest part of the opening - that is, the distance between the frames or walls where the gate will be attached. Then compare the resulting number with the range of the gate you are considering.
Monkey Mum® gate size overview
Monkey Mum® gates are available in three sizes, covering most standard door openings in homes. All have a height 78 cm and are made of metal for maximum stability.
Small — for the narrowest openings
Range: 63–70 cm - Ideal for older homes with narrower frames or for irregular openings. If your opening measures between 63 and 70 cm, Small is your choice. → Monkey Mum® Small Safety Gate
Medium — the most popular size
Range: 69.5–76 cm - The best-selling model, fitting most standard door openings in panel and brick houses. → Monkey Mum® Medium Safety Gate
Large — for wider openings
Range: 76–83 cm For wider openings and openings without a standard door frame. If it exceeds 76 cm, Large will cover it reliably. → Monkey Mum® Large Safety Gate
What if the opening does not match any size?
Monkey Mum® gates are available in three sizes, covering most standard household door openings. All have a height of 78 cm and are made of metal for maximum stability.
What to look for when choosing — practical checklist
When comparing gates, go through these points:
Barrier height - 78 cm is the standard that prevents even an active toddler from climbing over
Material — the metal construction is more stable and durable than the plastic one
Opening method - the gate should be able to open with one hand, ideally in both directions
Safety lock - two-stage locking prevents accidental opening by a child
Adjustment range - check whether your opening falls within the model’s range
Extension option - you will appreciate it if you move in the future or relocate the gate
Lower bar of the gate — lies on the floor and can easily be tripped over in a hurry. Ramp serves as a ramped crossing over the gate and eliminates tripping.
How does a drill-free installation work?
Monkey Mum® gates are secured with locking screws that expand into the door frame or walls. The system works on a similar principle to shower curtain rods — only much more firmly.
Installation process at a glance:
Place the gate into the desired opening.
Start tightening the locking screws on both sides.
Tighten until the gate is stable. Leave a small gap on the opening side so the closing mechanism can safely engage.
Check the stability – pull the gate from the side and from above.
The whole installation can be handled by one parent in 5 minutes without tools (the screws are tightened by hand). When dismantled, no marks are left on the wall or door frame.
Suitable for wooden, plastic, and metal door frames. Each locking screw has a rubberized pad at the end that protects the surface from dents. For more thorough protection of walls and door frames, we recommend purchasing Monkey Mum® protective round pad.
Accessories and add-ons
Accessories are available for Monkey Mum® gates, suitable for specific situations:
Extension - extends the gate by 7 or 14 cm. Practical when moving house or for non-standard openings. Available for Small, Medium, and Large models.
Ramp — It fits under the lower bar of the gate and ensures smooth entry and passage. Thanks to its sloped profile, it reduces the risk of tripping while also allowing a stroller or balance bike to roll over comfortably. We recommend it anywhere you cross or pass through the gate every day.
Replacement Y-shaped locking screws - available in two sizes (small and large). The Y-shaped screws are designed specifically for mounting on round railings, where a standard screw does not have a sufficient support point.
Reinforcing top cap for the extension - covers and strengthens the top part of the extension for a cleaner and safer result.
Triangular reinforcing pad - placed in the lower part under the extension and gate for a firmer and more stable connection.
Protective round pad - protects the surface of the door frame or wall at the point of contact with the screw from possible indentations.
Frequently asked questions
From how many months should I get the gate?
As soon as the child starts crawling or pulling themselves up — roughly from 6–9 months. Definitely before the first accident happens. Buy the gate preventively, not reactively.
Can the gate be used for dogs and cats too?
Yes, Monkey Mum® gates are also popular with pet owners. For larger dogs, we recommend the Large model or a combination of the gate with an extension for maximum stability.
How long do I need the gate for?
Usually until the age of 2–3 years, when the child understands how to open the gate safely on their own. For stairs, it depends on how quickly the child gets used to walking safely up and down the stairs under adult supervision.
How do I clean the gate?
The metal structure is easy to wipe clean with a damp cloth. Avoid aggressive cleaning products that could damage the surface finish. You do not need any special cleaning agent for the locking screws.
What if I need to move the gate?
Thanks to the drill-free system, moving it takes only minutes. You simply loosen the gate, move it, and reinstall it in the new opening — of course, as long as the new opening falls within the size range.
Can I use the gate on a glass railing?
No, use on glass railings is not possible and we do not recommend it for safety reasons. Glass surfaces are not designed for point pressure or for attachment by this type of mechanism. If there are vibrations or if a child pulls on it, the glass may crack and cause injury.
A safety gate is one of the few things you buy once and never have to think about again - it simply works. The investment pays off in peace of mind every time you leave for another room.
Choose the right size for your opening, or buy an extension or ramp if needed — and you’re done in 10 minutes.
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