Today, we can find that there are 9.4 million kids in America who have autism and are living with special needs. Luckily for them, there are several companies that have produced items that can help these families in keeping their kids safe & sound.
In today’s post, we will be discussing about some of the best child proof door locks for autistic child or special needs kids. We have researched, reviewed, and analyzed some of the best child-proof door locks on the market.
There are many brands, designs, styles, and models available in the market. Based on our research, we felt that the Door Guardian – Door Lock for Out-Swinging Doors is the editor’s choice.
It is childproof & tamper resistant. We also felt that the BESTTEN Heavy Duty Oil Rubbed Bronze Entry Door Lever is the runner-up. It is produced from a heavy solid metal lever & a high-security nickel-plated solid brass 5-pin lock cylinder.
Our Top Choice (our top three)
Quick Navigation
- The Door Guardian – Door Lock for Out-Swinging Doors (Editor’s choice)
- BESTTEN Heavy Duty Oil Rubbed Bronze Entry Door Lever (Runner Up)
- Defender Security U 10827 Door Reinforcement Lock (Budget Pick)
The best child-proof door locks for autistic child or special needs kids
We have researched & reviewed to provide a list of the best child proof door locks for autistic child or special needs kids. We have prepared the guide after some intense analysis and review of the products.
Let us read them to know which one can meet your requirements.
1. The Door Guardian – Door Lock for Out-Swinging Doors – Editor’s Choice
The Door Guardian – Door Lock for Out-Swinging Doors is our first product on the list of the best child proof door locks for autistic child or special needs kids. Door alarms are a good choice; when there is a special needs child at home, then they should be prevented from even being able to open the door.
We thought that this model was a great option to keep doors shut. Not surprisingly, it has been used by the autism community to keep kids safe inside homes. The operation is quite simple, as the pin needs to be pulled downwards to open the door, and it springs back.
The installation takes less than 10 minutes. This is a good thing. Our team members were able to install it quickly. Users need to utilize the 3M high bond tape that also comes with the optional screws.
The lock can be used anywhere in homes, apartments, and condos and can be installed on front, garage, patio, and bedroom doors. The unit is quite effective at child-proofing the home. We also found that the optional safety insert prevents the kids from opening the lock model.
The design is quite excellent and cost-effective. We found that it is easy to use and easy to install, providing homeowners with an effective solution. The low-profile design can blend elegantly into the door without causing any damage to the door frame.
The guardian lock autism model can be used on front doors, garage entrance doors, side doors, back doors, balcony doors, bedroom doors, and double doors. It prevents kids from opening the lock without the key insert.
The lock has been proven effective for children with autism and adults having Alzheimer’s. Did it have any flaws? Well, we noticed that the glue pads are powerful. Users will have to make sure that they are correctly attached where they need to be because they can’t be moved once attached to the door frame.
- Elegantly designed.
- Robust build quality.
- Ease to install.
- Simple to use.
- Effective against special needs kids.
- Flexible usage.
- Made from plastic.
Bottom line:
The Door Guardian – Door Lock for Out-Swinging Doors is our editor’s choice. It comes infused with a host of exceptional features. We liked the fact that it is extremely useful for autistic children and is priced relatively cheaply.
2. BESTTEN Heavy Duty Oil Rubbed Bronze Entry Door Lever – Runner Up
The BESTTEN Heavy Duty Oil Rubbed Bronze, Entry Door Lever, is our runner-up. It comes with unique features infused like a removable latch plate for doors with round latch holes. These doors do not have an inlet for rectangle plates.
It comes made from a heavy solid metal lever. There are premium-grade door lever sets with several features. Moreover, they also come with high-end rich oil rubbed bronze with stylish bronze accents.
There is a high-security nickel-plated solid brass 5-pin lock cylinder. Our team member noticed that it has an interchangeable core. There are 3 brass keys included. It has reversible for right and left swing doors.
We were able to use it on adjustable 2-3/8″ – 2-3/4″ (60-70mm) backsets. It should be used on doors with a thickness of 1-3/8″ to 1-3/4″ (35-45mm) ANSI Grade-3. We also learned that it has a heavy solid metal lever that is quite strong and durable.
The unit can also be used as window locks for autistic child. It has a lifetime-warranted commercial-grade electroplated finish. The model comes infused with a 5-year limited warranty.
- Vienna design.
- Hard-wearing electroplated finish.
- Robust all metal construction.
- Flexible door installation.
- Effective against special needs kids.
- The complete set is provided.
- The complete set is provided.
- It spins more than it should.
Bottom line:
The BESTTEN Heavy Duty Oil Rubbed Bronze, Entry Door Lever, is our runner-up. It comes infused with some incredible features like a Vienna design, a hard-wearing electroplated finish, and a robust all-metal construction.
3. Defender Security U 10827 Door Reinforcement Lock – Budget Pick
Our budget pick is the Defender Security U 10827 Door Reinforcement Lock. This is more of a reinforcement lock that acts as a security feature. This is a uniquely designed lock that is elegant to look at as well.
We liked the golden color that it came in. This color was significantly able to enhance the appearance of the room in which it was installed. Our team members did not have any issues installing or operating the model.
We may tell you to watch the installation video and then begin your work. The high-security door reinforcement lock can be used on any swing-in door of any door thickness. The model is child-safe and tamper-resistant.
It has a spring-loaded design that can be installed higher where special needs kids can’t reach. The doors can’t be kicked open by the intruders either. It also immensely protects against the thieves’ lock picking and bumping when they are placed inside a locked position.
We thought that it could be used as door locks for autistic adults. Overall, the model is quite elegantly designed and appears kind of elegant. We felt that the maker could have added a grip or loop of some kind to make it simple to unlock. The installation also was quick, provided we viewed the video first before beginning things.
- Vienna design.
- Tamper-resistant.
- Child-safe design.
- Easy installation.
- It cannot be opened from the outside.
- Priced affordable.
- Installation is tricky.
Bottom line:
The Defender Security U 10827 Door Reinforcement Lock is our budget pick model. It is a stunningly-designed unit that has incredible features to ensure special needs kids are safe inside homes. However, adults & parents might first want to view the installation video and then proceed with the setup of the lock.
4. BiSiViO ChildProof Door Lever Lock – Best Easy to install
The BiSiViO ChildProof Door Lever Lock is next on the list of the best child proof door locks for autistic child or special needs kids. The child-proof door handle model is ideal for parents or pet owners who do not want their small kids or pets from wandering outside into the unknown.
Besides, it is also easy to install and remove. Our team members found it is quite easy to install it on their doors. They did not need to make use of any tools. That is a good thing for those of you who hate using tools for installation.
All you need to do is remove the damage-free 3M adhesive and then place the lever lock on the door of your choice. We used the hair dryer to set things up easily. We were also able to remove the lock without any residue.
This child proof front door deadbolt model is a universal fit. We liked the fact that the model could be used on any of the door lever lock we wanted to. Moreover, it can be opened or locked left and right. The model is compatible with most of the door level handles that have a 180-degree rotatable handle lock arm design.
The unit comes with a durable ABS material. It is designed from high-quality ABS material and strong adhesives. Additionally, the door lever lock is strong enough to get the babyproofing or pet-proofing job well done.
All in all, it is a sublime model that is easy to install and use. Our participants were delighted to use this model in their day-to-day activities and lives. Moreover, they found it quite helpful in preventing their kids or pets from getting out of the door. It does the job.
- Keeps kids safe.
- Easy to operate.
- Simple to install and remove.
- Comes with a universal fit.
- Has a durable ABS material.
- It is cheaply priced.
- Flimsy design.
Bottom line:
The BiSiViO ChildProof Door Lever Lock is our best easy-to-install model in the market. When users are searching for a lock that can protect the kids & pets and is easy to set up, then this unit is what they are looking for. It comes with exceptional features like a universal fit and has a durable ABS material.
5. EverPlus Home Security Door Lock – Best Withstand Model
Next on our list of the best child proof door locks for autistic child or special needs kids, we have the EverPlus Home Security Door Lock. This model is a 3″ Stop metal construction home security door lock that has 4 screws designed to withstand 800Ibs of force.
Isn’t that simply amazing? This model is 12 times stronger than a normal deadbolt to getting kicked in. The model also comes with each door lock latch with 8 screws. They are 4 long screws and 4 short screws.
The model can match any inward swinging door. It acts as a safety door lock guard for home security. They have also provided us with the installation manual. When users have installation issues, then they contact them, and they will help with it.
This could be the best child safety lock for front door as it is simple to use. We needed to place the index finger on top of the door lock security. Then place your thumb on the bottom and slide the lock away from the base plate. It should be done in the direction of the hinges, and then users have to pull it outward.
Our team members did not make use of any tools to open. It takes some practice to do the opening of the lock. Though it prevents breaking, it is easy to open during any emergencies. This model is extremely useful for ensuring that kids do not go outside of the house.
It comes with a spring-loaded design that prevents kids from opening the door to strangers. This lock for the door inside offers protection for special needs kids when their parents are not with them. Besides, it can also be used in homes with the elderly or make ladies feel safe.
They not only prevent break-ins but can simply be opened when you need to do it. They have provided a 5-year after-sale service that ensures users can purchase the model without worrying about any issues.
- Tamper resistant.
- Child-safe design.
- Easy installation.
- Cannot be opened from outside.
- 12x stronger than a common deadbolt.
- Works on inward swinging doors.
- Design needs improvement.
Bottom line:
The EverPlus Home Security Door Lock is our best withstand model. As we read, it can withstand 12 times the force used on other locks. This model comes with wonderful features like it has tamper resistant, has a child-safe design, and easy installation.
6. SafeEasy 4 Pack Child Proof, Door Lever Lock, Prevents Toddlers from Opening Doors – Best Toddler Option
Our final product is the SafeEasy 4 Pack Child Proof Door Lever Lock Prevents Toddlers from Opening Doors. It comes with an upgraded, simple design. This model can prevent special needs kids from opening the doors without adult supervision.
It can be used in any environment without worries. The model is easy to use and install on the doors. The handle lock is easy to remove, as we had to stick it to your door using the non-marking adhesive.
It comes included. We liked the fact that it does not require any tools. The model only needs a one-hand operation to be able to complete the installation quickly. There is also the lockout-proof feature present in the model.
We noted that the door lever child lock is compatible with all door level handles that come with a 180-degree rotatable handle lock arm design. This helps in preventing kids from locking out by special needs kids with the side button to control pending mode.
Our participant also liked the fact that the door locks for kids come with a strong adhesive on the back. This can be easily attached firmly on any surface that we want. Moreover, pets and birds can’t pull it out that easily.
All in all, this is an incredible model that comes with several interesting features. We liked using the model because of these reasons.
- Ensures kid’s safety.
- Prevents pets from opening the door.
- Prevents pets from damaging the inside room.
- Fits most door lever handles.
- 180°rotatable child-proof door lever lock.
- Not that very effective.
Bottom line:
The SafeEasy 4 Pack Child Proof Door Lever Lock Prevents Toddlers from Opening Doors is our best toddler option. The model has exciting features like preventing pets from damaging the inside room, fitting most door lever handles, and a 180-degree rotatable child-proof door lever lock.
Buying guide – Factors to Consider When Choosing the best child proof door locks for autistic child or special needs kids
Below are some factors that we considered after testing, reviewing, and researching on the best child proof door locks for special needs kids. We suggest that you go through them carefully so that it can help you choose the right model for yourself.
Let us read more about them.
- Compatibility
The first factor we noted was the compatibility of the child-proof door lock. We do not want to work with a lock that can be used on a singular surface. We like models that can work on several surfaces.
This ensures that they can work as and when they are required. Otherwise, you may find yourself in a situation where the locks can’t be used. Then you are merely going to waste your money and time.
- Ease of assembly and installation
The second factor that we noticed was the ease of assembly and installation. We do not want to work with child-proof door locks that are difficult to assemble and install. Nobody likes to do that.
When you can’t use them properly, then what is the use, is it not? The models must provide proper manuals, instructions, and tutorials, if possible. The installation process should be straightforward.
- Edges
We suggest that you avoid using child-proof door locks that come with sharp edges. These edges can cause damage or bad injury to your kids. So, please choose models that come with a perfect finish on them.
Here, we suggest that parents go through the reviews of the product. That will give them an idea of the model that is safe and the one that is not. We can assure you that the models provided on this list are safe to use for kids with special needs.
- Weight
A lightweight child-proof door lock is much better than the heavy one. We noticed that they provide you with better movement and help you to use them anywhere you want. Please do not opt for models that are cheap because they are produced from poor materials.
The right balance between design, weight, and usability has to be found out. This makes a really good lock. A fantastic option would be plastic and robust steel, if you may. The models must be able to provide you with durable protection when being able to move.
- Durability
We suggest making use of child-proof door locks that are produced from good materials. This helps in enabling it to last for a few years at least. You do not want to be replacing locks every few months.
Please also check the warranty before getting them for yourselves. When a model comes with a lengthy warranty period, then it means that they believe in the product. Moreover, you may want to read the reviews given by the customers.
- Price
Finally, we checked the price of the child-proof door lock. We do not want to get a model that exceeds our budget. The child door locks are not necessarily expensive, though some models can be very costly.
It depends on the features and the material that they are produced from. Users have to decide on the kind of budget that they need for the door lock. Then you can search for the options provided in the budget range to be practical.
Who is this for?
The child-proof door locks are meant for autistic children and special needs kids. These children have special needs and have to be dealt with with love & care. So, as a responsible parent, you would want to do your best to ensure the safety and well-being of your kids.
Here the size of the house and the property does matter. It could be an apartment, an independent home or even a rural property. The child proof door locks for autistic child or special needs kids are designed for the protection of your kids.
There are no laws regarding using child locks on your homes or cars. You can decide on the age that you want to stop using them when you feel it is safe for them. That is why it is vital parents have rules for their kids at home when traveling in the car and so on.
They need to design a system where the special needs kid understands that things are being done for their own good. Moreover, having the right kind of child proof door locks for kids with special needs is the duty and responsibility of the homeowner.
Users have incredible reviews about these locks. They said that installing these kinds of locks at home gave us a sense of confidence and the ability to move around in peace. We did not feel insecure at all, wondering that our doors were unlocked.
We knew that our children were safe inside until we came back. During tests, our team members were quite satisfied with the results of the door locks. They were quite astounded by the results that were to be seen.
How have we tested for the best child proof door locks for autistic child or special needs kids?
Product Name | Ease of assembly and installation | Edges | Weight | Price | Overall score | Check Price |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
BESTTEN Heavy Duty Oil Rubbed Bronze Entry Door Lever | 97 | 98 | 97 | 96 | 96.75 | Check Price |
Defender Security U 10827 Door Reinforcement Lock | 97 | 96 | 96 | 97 | 96.5 | Check Price |
BiSiViO ChildProof Door Lever Lock | 96 | 96 | 94 | 96 | 95.5 | Check Price |
The Door Guardian – Door Lock for Out-Swinging Doors | 98 | 99 | 99 | 99 | 98.75 | Check Price |
EverPlus Home Security Door Lock | 94 | 92 | 96 | 96 | 94.5 | Check Price |
SafeEasy 4 Pack Child Proof Door Lever Lock Prevents Toddlers from Opening Doors | 92 | 92 | 94 | 96 | 93.5 | Check Price |
As we are dealing with child-proof door locks for special needs kids, we wanted to make sure that they came with the proper instructions. That is right. Our team members ensured that they had the right kind of manual present in them in the package.
Without that, we weren’t going anywhere. We are delighted to let you know that the child-proof door locks came with the installation guide and manual. We then noticed the ease of the assembly and installation.
When a door lock for an autistic child is going to be challenging to install, then you might want to look elsewhere. The models provided in the above review are simple to install and use. However, we did notice that some models require professional help to install.
When you are not sure about installing the door lock on your property, then it is ideal taking professional help. We also wanted to make sure that the models did not come with sharp edges.
That is because when autistic kids use these locks, they may not know how to handle them or where to place their hands. We do not want these locks to harm or injure small kids, leave alone kids with special needs.
We also checked for the weight of the model. We did not work with a door lock that is quite heavy. Instead, we wanted to use a model that is lightweight and easy to operate & handle with for parents.
We also did notice for the appearance of the door locks in the room. Since we are discussing about a functional lock, this is an optional feature. Some parents might be concerned and worried about the looks of the locks.
When that is the case, then the design and the elegance of the door locks can be viewed first and then installed on the doors. We felt that the digital or smart locks gave an elegant appearance to the rooms in which they were installed.
We checked for the price of the child proof door locks for autistic kids. We did not feel that they had to be priced unreasonably high. Luckily most of the models were affordable and priced relatively low.
However, smart locks can be priced somewhat higher. That is because they come with several features in them, and they look good too. These were some of the factors that we used to test the models before reviewing them.
Child-proofing your interior doors
- Child proof door lever lock
The best way to child proof the interior doors would be by not using the lever-style handles. These models are easy for kids to open. If these doors are present in a home with a special needs child, then they can quickly get out and access other rooms inside the house by using the handle and pulling it down.
The child proof door lock, on the other hand, ensures that they come with covers on them. These covers are stably covered on the doors using adhesive strips or with screws. The screws have to be driven to the door.
- Glidelok Child Safety Door Top Lock
Parents can also consider using a child safety door top lock to ensure that the special needs kids are safe inside the home. This is not like the handle covers because it comes installed on the door and lock both sides of the door.
One can easily install this kind of door top lock inside their home without much of a hassle. What happens is that kids can’t reach the top of the door due to the height difference. They may not reach up and unlock the door. However, adults can reach the door top lock.
- Door Monkey Child-proof Door Lock & Pinch Guard
The door monkey child proof door lock & pinch guard is a device that simply clips onto the door. It then grips onto the door frame and then locks the door in a slightly open position. This enables the air to circulate inside the room.
This feature makes it relatively easy to attach to the door to be able to lock it automatically. Besides, this device also prevents kids fingers from getting jammed when somebody slams the door shut.
- Finger pinch guard for doors
Since we have made sure that kids can’t open the doors, many of us don’t tend to focus on how to prevent doors from closing in on kids. It can cause serious harm; besides causing injury to the hands, it can also harm the wrist or elbow too.
It is sad to know that nearly 4,00,000 injuries among kids due to doors are reported in America alone. While most are minor injuries, some injuries are fractures. That is why parents may want to make use of finger protection on the handle sides.
The guard creates a 1.5″ space between the door and door frame to prevent it from slamming into kids. The guard is designed from a soft foam that does not cause any damage to the door frame either.
How to child proof a front door?
We felt that the best way to child proof a front door would be to using autism locking bedroom door. Users can also install the security door chain or a deadbolt. They are quite effective in ensuring that the autistic kids are safe inside their homes.
We also suggest that using child locks on the front door would be helpful. We have provided a list of the best models that are capable of meeting the needs. The above models should help prevent special kids from opening the door themselves.
How to remove child proof door locks?
Our team member noticed and tried it out and felt that the removal process of the child-proof door locks is not an easy one. It depends on the child-proof device chosen by you. Users can find the instructions given in the proof door lock manual.
Is magnetic child locks any good?
The magnetic child locks come with a few benefits when used in the right manner. They are quite simple to install and use. We noticed that they prevent small kids and children with special needs from opening the doors quickly.
Oen can also consider using window locks for autistic children. They can help in ensuring that the kids are safe and do not make an attempt to jump out of the window. This is useful, especially when parents are living in a high-rise apartment.
Please do note that the best child safety locks for doors need a specific installation on the doors. They might not be the best solution for rented homes because homeowners or new tenants might not want to use similar locks.
Why should you trust us?
Our readers can trust us because our editors have a combined experience of more than 70 years in child-proof door locks. The locking market has evolved over the years. Gone are the days when there was only a lock & key.
Today, there are so many elements present in the lock. They come in digital format; they have smart locks, and so on. Our main editor was in the IT industry before he decided to quit and write for a living.
He is very keen on reviewing the products that are present in the electronic industry. Besides, our team has written this review based on what we thought was the best. Our participants and editors, too chipped in now & then.
Yes, we have taken some references from certain websites, spoken to child-proof door locks experts, and used the suggestions of many users; our content is entirely unique. We have come up with the list using our own testing, reviewing, and analysis.
Additionally, our participants, our team members, and editors installed the guardian lock autism models in their homes and offices to write down their experiences. This enabled us to know how the models worked in the real-world situation.
Moreover, we have provided the pros & cons as well. We also focused on the drawbacks of the products to find out more about them. We did that to know whether the information offered was reliable and fine.
FAQs
1. How do I stop my autistic child from opening the door?
We have noticed that there are so many options to help autistic children safe at home. They are easy to use, and parents need to only pull the pin downwards to open the door, and it springs back into place when the door is shut. These locks enable them to keep their door shut and are recommended by the autism community.
2. How do I stop my toddler from unlocking the front door?
We tested and found that the best way to stop any child from unlocking the front door would be installing a deadbolt or a security door chain. Make sure to install the deadbolt or chain above the door handle, and it should be out of reach for small kids.
3. How do I keep my autistic child safe at night?
We suggest that apart from a secure lock, parents may need to set up a standard bedtime, have appropriate bedtimes, and avoid showing them television or other devices. The kids should be well-fed, and they should have had sufficient physical work during the day.
4. Is it ok to lock the child’s door?
According to medical and legal experts, parents may not want to lock the child’s door at night or during the day. That is because, when there is a fire or some kind of emergency, then they won’t be able to get out of the home in time.
5. Why do autistic kids open and close doors?
Autistic kids open and closed doors or perform such acts known as repetitive behaviors. As their might parents might beware, they might take longer to learn things and absorb what is happening around them.
They may take their time before understanding why things happen, for what reasons things happen, and how they happen. Besides, they are a form of self-calming their minds. This is found in most autistic kids.
Conclusion
We now hope that you can find the best child proof door locks for autistic child or special needs kids. When you stick with our reviews and the critical buying guide, then you can be able to find the right one.
These can also be used as door locks for autistic adults. We are sure you should not have any issues finding the best model. We highly recommend the GeekTale Smart Doorknob Fingerprint Door Lock, which is a fingerprint door lock that comes infused with a smart lock biometric door lock.
We also felt that the Kwikset 97300-939 Pismo Privacy Square Modern Doorknob is our runner-up as it comes with an idealistic simplified look. Besides, it has a variety of finishes that you can upgrade to a contemporary style.
The right choice of the best child lock for lever door handles should become relatively straightforward quickly. But if you still have a question or two, please let me know in our comment section. I’d love to help out in any way possible, so do not hesitate to reach out.
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