How can I childproof the stair banisters?

LindaSanford
by LindaSanford

My daughter recently moved to an apartment that has low banisters and steps. My grandchildren throw toys down the steps and climb on the banisters as well. I’m going to purchase a tall gate however I’m not sure what to place around the banisters to keep them safe. I thought about an extension but not sure how I should do it.

  2 answers
  • J J on Jul 03, 2019

    You could use more tall baby gates and zip tie them to the bannister to increase the height. Good luck!!

  • Lifestyles Homes Lifestyles Homes on Jul 03, 2019

    In a rental, this is a challenge.

    Since I don’t know the geometry of the space, you could zip tie 6’ sections of aluminum fencing on to the guardrail. This will cost you about $70 a section.


    So instead of going broke,

    I would start by putting up netting or screens on tension rods at the ceiling. Stop the kids from successfully throwing their toys.


    I would also recommend talking to the kids, even 2-year-olds, about the dangers of their actions. Kids know how to get attention.

    They can understand that this kind of action leads to Time Outs. The loss of their toys can also be an understood threat.


    If this is in the US, it is against the old Building Codes to have guard rails less than 34” high. This is a basis for Breaking The Lease and moving. Yes moving sucks, but so does one’s child becoming permanently injured or worse, from a stair accident.

    • LindaSanford LindaSanford on Jul 03, 2019

      Good morning Cheryl Henderson,

      Great ideas to my question and I will have my daughter speak to the new landlords. One grandson is 2 yrs old and the other is 7 yrs old who has autism.

      Thank you so much for this information and I will send an update on this project.