Hands Free Gate by The First Years

The Hands Free Gate, by The First Years, is a foot- pedal operated baby gate that swings in both directions, and fits standard doorways from 29″ to 34″ wide.  It will also fit openings up to 44″ wide with a gate extension kit.  The gate features vertical bars to keep curious toddlers from trying to climb over.  The bars are strategically spaced to help prevent painful accidents, while still providing ample visibility through to the other side.  The foot-pedal is easy for an adult to operate, but not a baby, making it easy for those, that need to get out of the gate, to be able to do so.  This all-metal safety gate uses a pressure-mount device to attach it to the walls.  Just twist the adjustable bolts at each of the four corners to get a proper, secure fit in your doorways, without leaving any marks on the walls.  The Hands Free Gate is best suited for children up to 24 months.

Pros:

• This gate does not have criss-cross bars, so baby will not be able to climb over this gate.
• The Hands Free Gate is pressure mounted, so it is possible to get a really snug fit, without the need to drill screws into the walls or door ways.
• Installation of this gate is easy, as there is no hardware required.
• The gate is easy for an adult to walk through, even with both hands full.  With one smooth motion, the lock is released by stepping on the pedal, and the gate is opened by nudging your knee against a wide square on the center edge of the gate.
• The gate is easy to close with a gentle nudge from a hand or foot, and it locks every time it closes.
• This gate has no little parts to pinch a baby’s little fingers.
• The Hands Free Gate also works great to keep pets out of areas where you don’t want them.  It is strong enough, when attached to the wall correctly, that a large dog cannot knock it over.

Cons:

• The walk-through space is only 18″ wide, so this is not suitable for a home that has someone that uses a wheelchair.
• The foot pedal is made out of plastic, and can break with constant use.  Although there are replacement pedals available, it is a hassle to have to replace the pedal.
• If this gate is put in a doorway, the door will not be able to close.
• This gate is not meant to be used at the top of a staircase.  If you are looking for a gate to go at the top of your stairway, this is not the right gate for you.
• Some babies have gotten their knees stuck between the bars, so make sure to watch your baby and how he interacts with this gate.

See More Baby Toys

Tagged as: all-metal safety gate, architecture, baby, baby gate, baby gates, best baby toys, canals, construction, door, foot pedal, fortification, gate, gate extension, gates, hands, hands free, lock, metal safety gate, pedals, pressure-mount device, rivers, the first years, toys, water transport infrastructure