Do I need a stair gate?
Short answer: Most families fit one once their baby starts crawling. Check the maker says it is suitable for the top of the stairs before fitting it there.
Here is the detail behind that answer, taken from current UK guidance from the NHS and the Lullaby Trust.
Things to check
- Check the maker's instructions say the gate is suitable for the top of the stairs before you fit it there.
- Measure the opening carefully, including any skirting boards.
- Check that the gate locks and closes properly every time.
What the guidance says
- Keep the cot clear: no pillows, duvets, cot bumpers, loose blankets, soft toys, pods, nests, wedges or anything to keep your baby in place.
Related questions
What is a stair gate?
A barrier for stairs or doorways.
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Sources
- NHS: Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) (accessed 2026-10-21)
General information only, not medical advice. Always follow your product's instructions. If you are worried about your baby, contact your GP, health visitor or 111. In an emergency, call 999.