Pressure-fit stair gates are great for use in rented accommodation as installation requires absolutely no drilling. This type of stair gate comprises a U-shaped metal frame, which squeezes against your wall or bannister, holding the gate in place through pressure alone. It often requires a small cup to be applied to your wall with an adhesive, which the bolts of the gate then sit in. Although the BabyDan Guard Me is safe for use anywhere in your home, the best stair gate for use at the top of the stairs is the Safety 1st Wall Fix Extending Metal Gate, which is also the best screw-fit stair gate we tested. Within these two categories, there are a few other features that can form part of the identity of a stair gate. For example:

SAFETY 1ST PRESSURE FIT SAFETY GATE Argos Product Support for SAFETY 1ST PRESSURE FIT SAFETY GATE

Retractable stair gates: formed from a flexible material like mesh that rolls or folds up when not in use.Pressure-fit gates are very safe for use at the bottom of a staircase or in a doorway, as long as they’re installed correctly and regularly tightened as necessary. Day-to-day use: Does the gate do the job it’s supposed to? Does it withstand a toddler’s weight? Is it easy to open and close with one hand? Type: Pressure-fit | Width: 73 – 80cm, with additional extensions available to fit up to 101cm What we love

Safety 1st 7 cm Gate Extension, Compatible with Safety 1st Safety 1st 7 cm Gate Extension, Compatible with Safety 1st

Type: Pressure-fit | Width: 76 – 82cm, with additional extensions available to fit up to 117cm What we love Extending stair gates: These can be adjusted to fit a range of doorway widths without the need for any additional extension pieces Ours is a Lindam branded one. The gates are really sturdy and secure, but they do have a bar at the bottom on the floor, which some people don't like in case it's a trip hazard - but we've had no problems." (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user muddaofsuburbia) Our verdict Screw-fit (wall-mounted) stair gates screw into your wall or bannister. This has the major advantage of ensuring the gate is secure and won’t move around once it’s installed, but the screws will cause minor damage to your walls. Screw-fit gates can be used in a variety of ways: at the top or bottom of a staircase, or in a doorway or other narrow opening. Cleanliness: Does the gate show grubby fingerprints? Is it easy to clean? Is there a bar that gets in the way when vacuuming?Both, if possible. Stair gates should be used to close off dangerous spaces. It’s best to use screw-fit stair gates at the top of the stairs where possible. Are pressure-fit stair gates safe? Type: Pressure-fit | Width: 76 – 96cm, with additional extensions available to fit up to 124cm What we love The Fred Clear-View is made from an acrylic panel, which creates the see-through window. This means that you could use the gate to segment off your child’s play area in your home and still be able to see them playing through the gate.