Product reviews

We got the wooden version whice fits in well with decor (stands out less than metal ones). It has an easy to use lever to open and shut it. It has no floor bar so is easy to put at the top and bottom of the stairs (nothing to trip over) but this means it needs fitting to the wall and banister. It is easy to assemble and fit.

The only downside to this stair gate is that it is an 'easy release' gate - which means you can lift it off easily. This is great if it is going to be used at a grandparents house and they don't want a gate up all the time but we find it a bit of a pain as an everyday gate - it comes off in my hands if I'm a bit heavy handed and lift the gate up too far.

We got the metal gate as it gets a good review from Which. It is a brilliant, simple and sturdy, no frills gate which can fit gaps 70cm to 102cm. We have a complicated opening on our stairs with a very wide opening and an extra bit of wall on one corner and this still fits safely. The only down sides are that it is a little fiddly to fit and is screwed to the wall so isn't easily moved. However, I can't even hang a picture straight and I still managed to fit the gate alone. Being screwed makes it perfect for wonky banisters. Finally, as there is no floor bar there is no risk of tumbling down the stairs, bleary eyed, with the baby! and the cheapest gate I found, what more can you ask for?