The most attractive feature of the Safety 1st Easy-Fit Security Gate 41817 is its price. Ringing up at far less than expensive dual-function (hardware- or pressure-mounted) child safety gates, the Safety 1st Easy-Fit Security Gate is a tempting purchase for budget-conscious parents. Before you whip out your wallet, however, it's important to do some decision-making.

As a pressure-mounted child safety gate that forms a barrier between rooms, the Safety 1st Easy-Fit Security Gate is adequate. In fact, it even has a "memory" installation feature that remembers its previous position. This makes it easier to reinstall the gate in the same doorway. However, if you plan to use a child safety gate for an extended period of time, hardware mounted gates are a better option, and may be a bit sturdier. The Safety 1st Easy-Fit Security Gate is not a hardware-mounted gate.

The Safety 1st Easy-Fit Security Gate seems stable until an intrepid toddler gives it a vigorous pull; then it can slide a bit on the doorframe, scraping paint or leaving marks on the wood. Perhaps our least favorite feature is the honeycomb design of the gate's inner panel. The holes in this pattern are just too tempting for a child who likes to climb, and they offer a handhold or toehold perfect for climbing up and over this gate, leaving busy parents to worry about falls or possible entanglement of their child.

Overall, we like the price of the Safety 1st Easy-Fit Security Gate and find it's a better short-term rather than a long-term option.


Pros: Easy to mount, memory installation feature, low cost
Cons: Honeycomb pattern may encourage climbers, gate can slide within doorframe

Warranty
90 days, limited