What was recalled
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a critical recall for specific retractable mesh safety gates manufactured under the brand name Dearlomum. This action, announced on July 10, 2025, targets a particular line of home safety products that were marketed to parents and caregivers as a secure way to block off staircases or hazardous areas in the home. These gates are designed with a flexible, expandable structure intended to fit snugly into doorways or hallways without requiring permanent installation hardware. While they appear to be standard baby-proofing tools, the CPSC has determined that this specific batch fails to meet mandatory federal safety standards for expansion gates and expandable enclosures.
The affected products are the Dearlomum Retractable Safety Gates, which come in three distinct color options: black, gray, and white. Each gate features a sturdy metal frame that supports a retractable mesh panel, allowing the unit to stretch and compress. In terms of physical dimensions, these gates stand approximately 33 inches high, providing a vertical barrier meant to keep small children contained. The width is adjustable, extending up to a maximum of 55 inches, which allows for some flexibility in fitting various standard doorway sizes. On the side of each gate, there is a white label clearly printed with the text "Retractable Safety Gate" along with the specific model number SH20.006D. This model number is the primary identifier you will need to verify if your unit is part of this recall.
These gates were not sold in traditional brick-and-mortar stores but were distributed exclusively through online retail channels. Specifically, they were sold on Amazon by a seller known as Signbaby. If you purchased these items directly from Amazon via the Signbaby storefront, there is a strong likelihood your product is included in this recall. It is important to note that the CPSC has not reported any specific incidents involving injury or death at this time, but the potential for serious harm remains due to the design flaw. The agency is working with both Signbaby and Amazon to identify all known purchasers and notify them directly. However, relying solely on email notifications may not be sufficient if your contact information was outdated or if the notification falls into a spam folder.
The scope of this recall is defined strictly by these product details. If you have a retractable gate that matches the description above—specifically one with the Dearlomum branding, the metal frame construction, the 33-inch height, and the model number SH20.006D printed on a white label—you possess a recalled item. The fact that it was sold by Signbaby on Amazon further confirms its inclusion in this specific safety alert. Do not assume that because the gate looks intact or functions mechanically that it is safe to use. The recall is based on a fundamental design violation of federal standards, meaning the product itself is unsafe regardless of its current physical condition. You must treat any gate matching these exact specifications as hazardous until you have completed the remedy process outlined by the manufacturer.
The hazard, explained
Safety gates are designed to be a physical barrier, but in this specific case, the design creates a dangerous gap that undermines their primary purpose. The recalled Dearlomum retractable mesh safety gates violate federal safety standards for expansion gates because the space between the bottom of the gate and the floor is too wide to prevent a child from getting stuck. This is not a minor design flaw; it is a critical failure in how the gate interacts with the ground surface where children play.
When a toddler or young child moves through a home, they often do so on all fours or by crawling. Their bodies are small, flexible, and surprisingly strong. The federal standard exists to ensure that the openings in any safety gate are small enough that a child’s body cannot pass through them entirely. In this instance, the gap between the mesh or frame of the gate and the floor is large enough for a child’s torso to slip through. This creates an entrapment hazard that is both immediate and severe.
The mechanism of injury here is particularly frightening because it relies on leverage and suction. If a child’s head passes through the gap but their shoulders or torso get caught, they can become wedged in place. Because children are light and have large heads relative to their bodies, they can often push their heads through spaces that would block their chests. Once the torso is trapped, the child may panic, thrash, or try to pull themselves free. This movement can tighten the entrapment, making it harder for them to escape on their own.
Furthermore, if the gate is installed on a smooth floor, such as hardwood or tile, a suction effect can develop between the bottom of the child’s body and the floor surface. This suction acts like a seal, holding the child in place even more firmly than friction alone would. The combination of being wedged by the gate structure and held down by suction can lead to rapid exhaustion and suffocation. Even if the gate is installed on carpet, uneven piles or gaps between boards can create similar entrapment points.
This type of hazard is especially dangerous because it can happen in a split second. A child might lean against the gate, slip through the bottom gap, and become trapped before a caregiver even notices. The risk is not just about falling; it is about being immobilized in a position where breathing becomes difficult or impossible. The federal standard for gates and enclosures was established specifically to prevent these scenarios by ensuring that no part of a young child’s body can be caught between the gate and the floor.
While the retractable mesh design of these gates may look sleek and unobtrusive, it does not eliminate the fundamental physics of entrapment. The metal frame and adjustable width do not compensate for the gap at the base. This is why the CPSC has determined that this product poses a risk of serious injury or death. It is crucial to understand that this is not a matter of wear and tear over time; it is an inherent design issue present in all units of this model.
Who is most at risk
The primary individuals facing serious danger from this recall are young children, particularly those who are in the developmental stages of crawling, cruising, and early walking. Safety gates are designed to be a protective barrier for these specific age groups, typically ranging from infants under one year old up to toddlers around two years of age. This is because children in this window are naturally curious and mobile but lack the physical coordination and cognitive judgment to recognize dangerous gaps or obstacles. They may attempt to squeeze through openings that appear too small for an adult, unaware of the risk of becoming trapped. The recalled Dearlomum retractable mesh gates were marketed toward parents and caregivers responsible for childproofing homes, meaning the intended users are exactly those who rely on such devices to create safe zones within their living spaces.
The specific hazard identified in this recall makes young children disproportionately vulnerable due to their unique body proportions. The federal standard violation centers on an entrapment risk where a child’s torso can fit through the opening between the gate and the floor. For a toddler, whose head is relatively large compared to their body but whose chest and waist are narrow, there is a terrifying possibility that they could slip their body through the gap while their head remains stuck. This type of entrapment can lead to strangulation or asphyxiation if the child is left unattended for even a brief moment. Because children have less muscle mass and strength than adults, they may be unable to pull themselves free once trapped in such a configuration. The retractable nature of the mesh, which relies on tension and alignment, introduces variables that can create unexpected gaps, especially if the gate is not installed with perfect precision or if the floor surface is uneven.
While the primary risk is directed at children, households with elderly family members or individuals with mobility challenges may also be indirectly affected. These individuals often rely on clear, unobstructed pathways for safe navigation, particularly in high-traffic areas like hallways or stairwells where safety gates are commonly installed. If a gate fails due to the structural integrity issues described, it could collapse or open unexpectedly, creating a tripping hazard for anyone nearby, regardless of age. Furthermore, caregivers looking after both young children and older adults must remain vigilant, as the failure of one safety device can compromise the security of the entire environment. The recall notice emphasizes that consumers should stop using the gates immediately because the risk is not theoretical; it is a documented violation of federal safety standards designed specifically to protect the most vulnerable members of the household from fatal or serious injury.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
If you purchased a retractable safety gate recently, particularly from Amazon, it is important to verify whether your specific unit is part of this recall. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has identified a specific set of products that pose a serious entrapment hazard. Because these gates look very similar to many other safe, compliant models on the market, you need to check for precise details rather than relying on general appearance alone. The primary brand associated with this recall is Dearlomum. If your gate does not bear this brand name, it is likely not part of this specific recall, but always double-check the manufacturer’s label to be sure.
The most critical piece of information to look for is the model number. You need to locate a white label attached to the side of the gate. On this label, you will find the text "Retractable Safety Gate" along with the specific model number SH20.006D. If your gate has a different model number or lacks this specific label entirely, it is not the recalled item. This model number is the definitive identifier used by both Signbaby and Amazon to track which units are subject to the safety notice.
In addition to the model number, you can check the physical dimensions and color options of your gate to help confirm the match. The recalled gates feature a metal frame and retractable mesh. They stand approximately 33 inches high and have an adjustable width that can extend up to 55 inches. These gates were sold in three specific colors: black, gray, and white. While color alone is not enough to confirm a recall, if your gate matches these dimensions and one of these colors, it increases the likelihood that you should check the label for the model number.
You should also consider where and when you bought the gate. These specific Dearlomum gates were sold on Amazon by the seller Signbaby. If you purchased a retractable safety gate from Amazon recently, it is worth checking your order history or the product page to see if it was listed under the Signbaby seller and matches the Dearlomum brand. Although the recall notice does not specify an exact date range for sales, the urgency of the notification suggests these items may have been in circulation relatively recently. If you are unsure, do not guess; instead, look for the white label on the side of your gate as described above.
If you find the white label with "Retractable Safety Gate" and model number SH20.006D, or if you bought a Dearlomum retractable gate from Signbaby on Amazon that looks like this description, you should stop using it immediately. Do not attempt to fix it yourself. The design flaw involves the gap between the gate and the floor, which cannot be corrected with simple adjustments. Your next step is to contact Signbaby for instructions on how to receive a full refund, as outlined in the remedy section of this recall notice.
What to do — step by step
If you have purchased the Dearlomum retractable safety gate from Amazon through the seller Signbaby, your immediate priority is to ensure the safety of any children in your home. The CPSC has identified a serious entrapment hazard where a child’s torso could fit through the gap between the gate and the floor. Because this risk involves potential injury or death, you must act quickly but calmly. Please follow these specific instructions provided by Signbaby to resolve the issue.
- Stop using the gate immediately. Take the safety gate down right away. Do not attempt to adjust it, tighten it, or use it in any capacity. The design flaw is inherent to the structure of the product, specifically regarding the spacing between the mesh and the floor surface, so no amount of installation adjustment will make it safe for child use. Place the gate out of reach of children and pets until you are ready to dispose of it.
- Contact Signbaby for instructions. You need to initiate the return process to receive your remedy. Reach out to Signbaby via email at regcards.team@gmail.com. Alternatively, you can visit their website at https://kiddoryproducts.com/pages/retractable-safety-gates-recalled-page or go to https://kiddoryproducts.com and click the "retractable safety gates recalled page" link at the top of the screen. They are actively contacting all known purchasers directly, but reaching out ensures your case is logged.
- Disassemble and destroy the gate safely. Signbaby has specific requirements for how you must handle the physical product. You will be asked to completely disassemble the gate. Once it is taken apart, you must destroy it by cutting through the mesh material. This step is critical; simply returning the gate or keeping it in a closet is not sufficient because others might still find and use it. Cutting the mesh ensures the entrapment hazard is physically eliminated.
- Send proof of destruction. After you have cut the mesh and destroyed the unit, take a clear photo showing that the mesh has been cut and the gate is no longer functional. Email this photo to regcards.team@gmail.com. Do not ship the physical item back to them; they only require visual confirmation that you have rendered it unusable.
- Receive your full refund. Once Signbaby receives and verifies your photo of the destroyed gate, they will issue a full refund. This applies to the entire purchase price. You do not need to pay for return shipping or restocking fees. If you purchased the item through Amazon, note that Amazon is also contacting known purchasers directly, but following the steps above with Signbaby is the primary path to resolution outlined in this recall notice.
Please keep your order confirmation email or receipt handy when you contact them, as it may help expedite the process. If you have already disposed of the gate without cutting the mesh, still contact them to inform them, though they specifically requested photos of destruction for verification purposes. Your health and safety are the most important outcomes here, so please prioritize these steps today.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you own a recalled Dearlomum retractable safety gate, the most important thing to understand right now is that there is no path to repair or refurbish this specific product for continued safe use. The CPSC has determined that the design flaw—specifically the gap between the gate and the floor that can trap a child’s torso—is inherent to the unit’s construction. Therefore, the official remedy offered by the manufacturer is exclusively a full refund. You should not attempt to modify the gate yourself in hopes of making it safe, nor should you try to sell or donate it to others, as doing so would put other families at risk for serious injury or death. The only correct course of action is to remove the product from your home entirely and follow the specific destruction and refund protocol outlined by Signbaby.
The process for receiving your money back is straightforward but requires you to take active steps to confirm the item has been destroyed. First, you must stop using the gate immediately. Next, you need to disassemble the unit completely. Once it is taken apart, you are required to destroy the mesh portion of the gate by cutting it. This step is crucial because it ensures that no one else can inadvertently use the dangerous product. After you have cut the mesh, you must take a clear photograph of the destroyed gate. This photo serves as proof of compliance with the recall instructions.
To initiate the refund, you will need to contact Signbaby directly. You can send your photo and request for a full refund via email at regcards.team@gmail.com. Alternatively, you can visit their dedicated recall page online. There are two ways to find this resource: you can go directly to https://kiddoryproducts.com/pages/retractable-safety-gates-recalled-page, or you can visit the main site at https://kiddoryproducts.com and click on "retractable safety gates recalled page" located at the top of the homepage. Once Signbaby receives your photo confirming the destruction of the mesh, they will issue your full refund.
Please note that both Signbaby and Amazon are also contacting all known purchasers directly to inform them of this recall. If you bought the gate from Amazon, keep an eye on your email or account notifications for their specific outreach. However, if you do not hear from them soon, do not wait. Take the initiative to follow the steps above. By destroying the dangerous mesh and sending the photo, you are not only protecting your family but also ensuring that this defective product does not end up in a landfill where it might still be used by someone else. Your refund is guaranteed once these conditions are met, so there is no financial risk in taking these steps promptly.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable why you might hesitate to dispose of a safety gate that has been installed in your home. These devices are often heavy, require tools and time to take down, and represent a significant financial investment. When you first see the recall notice, your natural instinct may be to think, “My child hasn’t fallen through it yet,” or “It looks sturdy enough for now.” However, ignoring a recall for an entrapment hazard is not merely a matter of inconvenience; it is a decision that leaves your child vulnerable to a silent, mechanical failure that cannot be fixed by tightening screws or adjusting tension.
The specific danger here lies in the physics of the design. Because the Dearlomum retractable mesh gates violate federal standards regarding the gap between the gate and the floor, there is a precise window of vulnerability that remains open regardless of how carefully you install them. A young child’s body is remarkably flexible and compressible. If a toddler leans forward to crawl under the gate, or if they lose their balance and slide against it, their torso can slip through the gap between the bottom of the mesh and the floor surface. This is not a theoretical risk based on speculation; it is a documented failure mode confirmed by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. When a child’s body becomes trapped in this space, the situation can escalate with terrifying speed.
The primary consequence of ignoring this defect is serious injury or death due to entrapment. If a child’s torso fits through the opening while their shoulders or hips do not, they become pinned in place. In this position, gravity and the weight of the gate itself can compress the chest cavity, making it difficult or impossible for the child to breathe. Furthermore, because the child is likely panicked and struggling, they may twist their body, leading to fractures or severe bruising. Unlike a fall from height where there might be time for an adult to react, entrapment at floor level often happens in seconds, before a caregiver can even realize what has occurred.
You might wonder if this is just a risk for very young infants. The reality is that as babies grow into toddlers, they become more mobile and curious. They will push against barriers, lean over rails, and test the limits of their environment. A gate that appears secure from an adult’s perspective may offer zero protection to a determined child whose body dimensions align with the hazardous gap. Continuing to use these gates means accepting that any moment a child interacts with the bottom edge of the mesh, they are at risk of being caught in a trap that offers no easy escape.
While the recall notice states that no incidents have been reported to date, this absence of data is not evidence of safety. It simply means that, so far, luck has been on your side. Relying on luck with a known mechanical defect is a gamble you do not need to take. The consequences of being wrong are irreversible. By leaving the gate in place, you are maintaining a hazard that serves no protective function and actively endangers the very child it was meant to keep safe.
