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Expert Picks for January 2026

Best Child Safety Locks

Toddlers are determined, clever, and have all day to figure out your cabinets. We compared child locks from magnetic to adhesive to lever handles—finding what actually childproofs versus just adult-annoys.

Last updated: January 28, 2026

Best Overall Comparison All Products User Reviews Buying Guide FAQ

Best Overall Our top recommendation

Best Overall

Safety 1st

Magnetic Cabinet Locks (8-Pack)

4.5 (34,567 reviews)

The best of both worlds—keeps toddlers out while remaining invisible. No ugly hardware ruining your kitchen.

Type

Magnetic

Install

Adhesive

Includes

8 locks + 2 keys

Visibility

Hidden inside

Pros

✓ Completely hidden
✓ One key unlocks all
✓ No drilling required

Cons

✗ Key must be kept from kids
✗ Adhesive can fail
✗ Won't work on metal cabinets

$25

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Head-to-Head Comparison

Product	Rating	Price	Action
Magnetic Cabinet Locks (8-Pack) Best Safety 1st	4.5	$25	View
Cabinet Locks (10-Pack) Skyla Homes	4.3	$12	View
Magnetic Cabinet Locks (12-Pack) Value Jool Baby	4.6	$30	View
Xtraguard Dual Action Multi-Use Lock Munchkin	4.4	$8 each	View
Door Lever Lock (2-Pack) Eco-Baby	4.3	$15	View

* Prices may vary. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

All Recommended Products

Best Overall

Safety 1st

Magnetic Cabinet Locks (8-Pack)

4.5 (34,567 reviews)

The best of both worlds—keeps toddlers out while remaining invisible. No ugly hardware ruining your kitchen.

Type

Magnetic

Install

Adhesive

Includes

8 locks + 2 keys

Visibility

Hidden inside

Pros

✓ Completely hidden
✓ One key unlocks all
✓ No drilling required

Cons

✗ Key must be kept from kids
✗ Adhesive can fail
✗ Won't work on metal cabinets

$25

View on Amazon

Budget Pick

Skyla Homes

Cabinet Locks (10-Pack)

4.3 (23,456 reviews)

Budget baby-proofing that works. Visible straps aren't pretty but they're effective.

Type

Strap

Install

Adhesive

Pack

10 locks

Adjustable

Yes

Pros

✓ Very affordable
✓ Easy install
✓ Adjustable strap

Cons

✗ Visible straps
✗ Adhesive can be defeated
✗ Toddlers learn quickly

$12

View on Amazon

Best Value

Jool Baby

Magnetic Cabinet Locks (12-Pack)

4.6 (45,678 reviews)

Best value in magnetic locks—more locks and keys than competitors at a lower price point.

Type

Magnetic

Install

Adhesive

Includes

12 locks + 3 keys

Adhesive

3M VHB

Pros

✓ Great value per lock
✓ 12 locks + 3 keys
✓ Strong adhesive

Cons

✗ Installation requires precision
✗ Alignment critical
✗ Extra keys recommended

$30

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Premium Pick

Munchkin

Xtraguard Dual Action Multi-Use Lock

4.4 (8,765 reviews)

Requires two simultaneous actions to open—frustrating for toddlers, slightly annoying for adults.

Type

Mechanical latch

Install

Adhesive

Action

Dual-button release

Color

White

Pros

✓ Dual-button release
✓ Very difficult for kids
✓ Multiple use configurations

Cons

✗ Visible hardware
✗ Annoying for adults too
✗ More expensive per lock

$8 each

View on Amazon

Eco-Baby

Door Lever Lock (2-Pack)

4.3 (12,345 reviews)

Specifically for lever-style door handles that kids pull down easily. Snap on, no tools.

Type

Lever handle blocker

Install

Snap-on

Fits

Standard lever handles

Material

ABS plastic

Pros

✓ Works on lever door handles
✓ No tools needed
✓ Childproof but adult-easy

Cons

✗ Only for lever handles
✗ Can mark finish
✗ Some kids figure it out

$15

View on Amazon

Buying Guide: How to Choose Child Safety Locks

Child Safety Locks: Outsmarting Curious Toddlers

Toddlers are basically tiny drunk scientists—everything goes in the mouth, every cabinet must be explored. Locks buy you reaction time.

Lock Types

Magnetic locks:
Hidden inside cabinet
- Key unlocks from outside
- Most aesthetically pleasing
- Key must be stored away from kids

Strap locks:
- Visible but effective
- Adjustable length
- Work on irregular surfaces
- Toddlers eventually figure them out

Slide locks:
- Visible plastic mechanism
- Easy adult operation
- Moderate child resistance
- Can be forced

Dual-action locks:
- Require two simultaneous motions
- Most child-resistant
- Also annoy adults
- Worth it for dangerous cabinets

### What to Lock
Must lock:
- Under sink (chemicals)
- Medicine cabinets
- Knife drawers
- Cleaning supplies
- Liquor cabinet

Consider locking:
- Fragile item storage
- Toiletries
- Pet food
- Trash can cabinet
- Oven door

### Installation Tips
- Clean surfaces with alcohol before adhesive
- Let adhesive cure 24 hours before testing
- Install one cabinet "yes drawer" for safe exploration
- Keep duplicate keys in multiple locations

Frequently Asked Questions About Child Safety Locks

How long until kids figure out magnetic locks?

Most kids never figure them out without seeing the key used. The risk is them finding the key. Store keys high, hidden, and keep extras—you WILL lose one.

Will adhesive damage my cabinets?

3M VHB adhesive can remove paint when removed. For rentals or nice cabinets, test on hidden area first. Screw-mount options exist for permanent installation.

At what age can I remove locks?

Most kids are past the "explore everything" phase by 3-4, but it depends on the child. Gradually remove locks on less dangerous cabinets first. Keep chemical storage locked indefinitely.

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