How to Install a Safety Gate on Drywall Without Studs
By Regalo Baby | Published: 2026-10-15
Category: How-to Guides
No studs behind your drywall? You can still secure a baby gate safely. Follow these steps to choose the right anchors and pressure-mounted gate for a firm hold.
Quick answer
If no studs are available, use a pressure-mounted gate that relies on tension against the wall rather than screws. For openings that require hardware mounting, you must use heavy-duty drywall anchors rated for the gate's weight and follow the gate's instructions exactly. Never rely on plastic anchors alone for a gate at the top of stairs.
Why drywall without studs is tricky
Drywall is a relatively soft material that can crumble under repeated force. A baby gate, especially one that is opened and closed many times a day, exerts pressure and pull on its mounting points. Standard hollow-wall anchors spread the load, but they are not as strong as screwing directly into a wood stud. That is why the gate type and anchor choice matter so much.
Choose the right gate for your wall
Pressure-mounted gates are the best fit for drywall without studs because they do not require drilling into the wall. They use rubber bumpers and tension to stay in place. However, pressure-mounted gates are not recommended for the top of stairs. If you need a gate at the top of stairs, you must use a hardware-mounted gate, and that means finding studs or using specialized heavy-duty anchors.
Pick the right anchors if you must drill
If your gate requires hardware mounting and no studs are available, use self-drilling drywall anchors or toggle bolts rated for at least 50 pounds each. Plastic expansion anchors are usually not sufficient for a gate that will be pushed and pulled daily. Always check the gate's manual for the manufacturer's recommended anchor type and weight limit.
Step-by-step installation
- Measure the opening and check for studs: Use a stud finder to locate studs. If none are present, mark the width of the opening at the floor and at gate height. Common mistake: measuring only at the floor and assuming the wall is straight. Write down the narrowest measurement; gates fit best when the opening is consistent.
- Choose a pressure-mounted gate if possible: For drywall without studs, select a pressure-mounted gate like the Regalo Easy Open Baby Gate or Expandable Mesh Safety Gate. These use tension to hold without drilling. Common mistake: using a pressure gate at the top of stairs. Pressure gates are for doorways and bottom of stairs only.
- If drilling is required, install heavy-duty anchors: Use toggle bolts or self-drilling anchors rated for at least 50 pounds. Drill a pilot hole slightly smaller than the anchor. Common mistake: using plastic anchors that come with the gate, which may not hold in drywall alone. Test each anchor by pulling firmly before attaching the gate.
- Mount the gate and adjust tension: For pressure gates, turn the tension knobs until the gate is firm and does not move when pushed. For hardware gates, screw the mounting cups into the anchors. Common mistake: overtightening, which can crack drywall or bend the gate frame. The gate should not wobble, but the wall should not bow.
- Test the gate daily: Open and close the gate several times, then push and pull firmly to check for loosening. Common mistake: assuming the gate stays secure forever without checking. Re-tighten pressure gates monthly and check anchors every few weeks.
Product facts
- Easy Open Baby Gate: The Regalo Easy Open Baby Gate is a pressure mount design that opens easily with one hand. Pressure mounting means no drilling into drywall, making it ideal for renters or walls without studs.
- Easy Step® Extra Wide Safety Gate: The Regalo Easy Step Extra Wide Safety Gate has a one-touch release safety lock and a pressure mount design. The extra width fits wider openings, and the pressure mount still avoids wall damage, but it is not for the top of stairs.
- Expandable Mesh Safety Gate: The Regalo Expandable Mesh Safety Gate expands to fit openings between 27.5-50 inches and stands 28 inches tall. It has soft rubber bumpers that are gentle on walls. The rubber bumpers protect drywall from scuffs, and the expandable design fits odd-sized openings without drilling.
