Ethan BrooksBy Ethan Brooks

Stairs are one of the first big physical challenges a toddler encounters, and they can also be a serious fall hazard. A curious child who is just learning to crawl, pull up, or walk may see a staircase as an invitation to explore, not a danger. The good news is that a few consistent safety habits, combined with the right equipment installed correctly, can greatly reduce the risk of a stair-related injury. No single product or step can make a staircase completely childproof, but layering several practical measures lowers the risk while your child grows.

Short version: Use safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs, with gates that screw to the wall at the top, avoid accordion and pet gates, keep stairs clear of clutter and well-lit, and supervise toddlers closely on stairs.

Placing Gates at the Top and Bottom

Multiple safety organizations agree that gates belong at both ends of a staircase. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends installing safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs when your child is learning to crawl and walk. The AAP’s guidance for grandparents also states that gates should be positioned at the top and bottom of stairs. Safe Kids Worldwide echoes this, advising families to use approved safety gates at the tops and bottoms of stairs and to attach them to the wall whenever possible. Placing a gate at the top prevents a child from tumbling down from the highest point, while a gate at the bottom stops a toddler from climbing up unsupervised and potentially falling backward.

Choosing a Gate That Meets Current Standards

Not every gate sold for pets or for room dividers is safe for use around children. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) states clearly that pet gates should never be used as a child safety gate. The CPSC also warns families to replace older safety gates that have “V” shapes large enough to entrap a child’s head and neck. When you shop for a gate, look for models that meet current child safety standards, as the CPSC advises. The AAP adds that you should avoid accordion-style gates, which can trap an arm or a neck. Instead, choose a gate that is designed specifically for children and that carries clear labeling about its intended use.

Safe Kids Worldwide reminds caregivers to read the manufacturer’s instructions and warning labels to make sure you have the right gate for your needs. Not all gates are safe for use at the top of stairs. Some gates are designed only for doorways or the bottom of stairs, and using them at the top can create a serious hazard. Before you buy or install a gate, check the packaging and the manual to confirm that it is rated for the location where you plan to use it. For more on selecting child safety products, see our Safety Gates overview.

Installing Gates Correctly

Even a gate that meets safety standards will not do its job if it is installed incorrectly. The CPSC says that for the top of stairs, only use gates that screw to the wall. The AAP reinforces this by recommending gates that are firmly mounted to the home’s studs.

Take the time to follow the manufacturer’s installation guide step by step. If you are unsure about finding studs or using the right hardware, our Installation and Use page offers practical advice. Remember the CPSC’s reminder that no device is completely childproof; determined toddlers have been known to overcome or disable safety devices. Proper installation reduces that risk, but it does not eliminate it. Check the gate regularly to make sure it remains secure and that latches and hinges still work smoothly.

Making Stair Surfaces Safer

The surface of the stairs themselves can contribute to slips and falls. The AAP suggests considering carpeting stairs and making sure the carpet is firmly tacked down at the edges. Loose or wrinkled carpet can catch a small foot and cause a stumble. If your home has hardwood stairs, the AAP cautions against letting your child run around in socks, which can make slippery floors more dangerous.

Safe Kids Worldwide recommends keeping hallways and stairs well-lit and clear of clutter. Toys, shoes, or other objects left on steps can become tripping hazards for both children and adults. A clear, well-lit staircase makes it easier for a toddler who is learning to navigate steps to see each tread and for a caregiver to spot a hazard quickly. For broader fall prevention strategies throughout the home, visit our Falls section.

Supervision and Keeping Stairs Clear

Gates and good surfaces are important, but they work best alongside active supervision. Safe Kids Worldwide says to actively supervise toddlers on stairs and to hold their hands when walking up and down. Even with a gate in place, a toddler may try to climb over it or may be strong enough to shake it loose over time. Being within arm’s reach while your child practices stair skills helps you catch a misstep before it turns into a fall.

It is also wise to keep the area around the stairs free of furniture that a child could use to climb over a gate or railing. The AAP’s general home safety advice warns against placing chairs, sofas, or low tables near windows, and the same principle applies to stair landings. Regularly walk through your home at your child’s eye level to spot new risks as your toddler grows and becomes more mobile. Our room-by-room guide, Toddler-Proofing Your Home Room by Room, can help you think through these hazards in every space.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a pressure-mounted gate at the top of the stairs?

The CPSC states that for the top of stairs, only gates that screw to the wall should be used. The CPSC also says to look for gates that children cannot dislodge, and Safe Kids Worldwide notes that not all gates are safe for use at the top of stairs. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions to confirm whether a gate is rated for top-of-stairs use.

What should I do with an older gate I already own?

The CPSC advises replacing older safety gates that have “V” shapes large enough to entrap a child’s head and neck. If your gate has any openings that could catch a child’s head, arm, or neck, or if it is an accordion-style gate that the AAP warns against, it is time to replace it with a gate that meets current child safety standards. Even if the gate looks sturdy, older designs may not meet today’s safety requirements.

How can I make hardwood stairs less slippery for my toddler?

The AAP recommends that if you have hardwood floors, you should not let your child run around in socks, which can make slippery floors more dangerous. For stairs, you might consider adding carpet that is firmly tacked down at the edges, as the AAP suggests.

For more detailed guidance on stairway safety, including product selection and installation tips, visit our Stairway Safety page. You can also explore the broader Room-by-Room Safety section for help with other areas of your home.

Sources

Ethan Brooks

About Ethan Brooks

Ethan Brooks is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our childproofing guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.