How to install a pressure-fit baby gate

• Spanner (usually supplied)
• Tape measure
• Spirit level

Before you start, lay everything out on a soft surface (the flattened box works) and check it against the parts list in your manual.

• Gate frame and door
• Four pressure spindles and wall cups
• Extension pieces, if needed
• Adhesive pads for the wall cups

1. 1

   Step 1: Measure the opening at the top and bottom and add extension pieces if the manual says your width needs them.

2. 2

   Step 2: Screw the four spindles into the frame and set them roughly to the opening width.

3. 3

   Step 3: Stand the gate in the opening, with the bottom bar at the height the manual gives, and check it is level.

4. 4

   Step 4: Turn the spindles out evenly until the gate is firm, then lock them with their nuts.

5. 5

   Step 5: Fit wall cups on painted or delicate surfaces so the spindles do not slip or mark.

6. 6

   Step 6: Test that the door closes and latches by itself and that the gate does not move when pushed hard.

• Fitting a pressure gate at the top of stairs, where the bottom bar can trip adults and the gate could be pushed out.
• Tightening one side far more than the other, so the gate sits crooked.
• Not re-checking the pressure regularly; spindles slowly loosen.