Yes. If your priority is maximum fall protection, I’d choose a learning tower with a four-sided enclosure/guarding, rather than an open Montessori-style tower.
The Guidecraft Kitchen Helper design has anti-tip feet and safety nets/“keepers”, which give more enclosure than many conventional learning towers. However, there's an important caveat: CPSC recalled certain Guidecraft Classic and Contemporary Kitchen Helper towers in May 2026 because their platforms could loosen or detach. The recall applies to specific item/lot numbers, so I would check the exact model and lot number before buying a used one or using an older tower.
This has an enclosed safety bar around the top platform, an adjustable platform, and is currently about $100.
One important warning
I would not assume that a tower advertised as having a “safety net” is automatically safer. There have been several 2025–2026 recalls involving toddler towers for collapse, tip-over, fall, and entrapment hazards—including a 2026 HARPPA recall where CPSC specifically cited a child's torso fitting through openings.
Also, a learning tower doesn't make kitchen activities risk-free. CPSC emphasizes that child-safety devices aren't completely childproof, so active adult supervision is still essential, particularly around hot surfaces, knives, and boiling liquids.
Bottom line: For a child who is likely to lean, climb, or move around a lot, I'd pick the Little Partners Explore ’N Store for its four-sided rigid railing. If you specifically want a netted enclosure, the Guidecraft concept is attractive, but I'd only buy a new, non-recalled unit after verifying the exact model/lot.
If you tell me your child's age and approximate height, I can narrow this down to the safest 3 options for their size, including which one I'd personally buy.
When it comes to keeping a busy toddler safe at counter-height, traditional learning towers rely on solid high wooden rails or four-sided enclosures. However, a newer category of Montessori-style folding towers specifically integrates safety nets or soft-fabric/mesh rear guards alongside solid wood side panels to completely eliminate the risk of a backward slip or fall.
Foldable Toddler Tower with Safety Net (by brands like FlyingBoom / Fed Fitness / Keaibuding) : These popular multi-functional wooden towers feature 3 solid wood sides and a reinforced fabric or cord safety net across the back opening. They prevent a child from leaning back and falling out, fold flat for easy kitchen storage, and often double as a double-sided chalkboard/whiteboard activity center. You can check options and pricing for these on platforms like Wayfair or Macy's.[1][2][3]
Simplay3 Toddler Tower : If you prefer a molded, ultra-sturdy, non-wooden structure rather than a net, the Simplay3 features high-walled solid plastic enclosure panels on all sides with a wide anti-tip base and 6 non-skid rubber feet . It is frequently praised for total 360-degree containment without needing a fabric net. Details and availability can be viewed on Amazon.
Guidecraft Classic / Contemporary Kitchen Helper : Widely rated among the safest traditional enclosed wooden towers by consumer testing, it features a high four-sided wooden railing system with an interchangeable safety net/mat accessory option on select models, preventing any dangerous gaps while letting kids move securely.
To help narrow down the best fit, could you tell me:
How much space you have in your kitchen (do you need it to fold away)?
For a toddler who wants to be your little sous-chef, I’d prioritize a learning tower with a secure enclosure, a wide and stable base, and a safety rail or compatible safety net. A net can help provide extra containment, but it doesn’t prevent tipping, so stability matters just as much.
One important caution: Consumer Reports’ testing, updated in July 2026, found that 13 of 16 tested toddler towers failed its initial stability test. Several models have also been recalled, so I’d check the latest recall information before buying.
My top picks
(Best overall fit for your request)
Piccalio Mini Chef Foldable Toddler Tower + safety net
$239 + $34
Approx. $273 before tax
A foldable wooden tower paired with a dedicated, easy-to-clean safety-net accessory. This is the combination I’d investigate first if you specifically want both a tower and extra containment. Confirm the net fits your exact model before ordering.
Piccalio Mini Chef Foldable Toddler Tower:
Piccalio Helper Tower Safety Net — $34.00:
Foldable Toddler Tower With Safety Net & 2-step Stool
$133.99
Wayfair
A lower-cost option advertised with a safety net and two-step stool. It may suit families who want a foldable design without spending as much as the Piccalio combination.
Before purchasing, verify the exact net attachment, platform dimensions, weight limit and current recall status.
A practical alternative with adjustable platform heights, advertised for children aged 18 months and older. However, it isn't my first choice if a safety net or more fully enclosed standing area is essential.
Stability: A wide base and no rocking on your kitchen floor.
Enclosure: Guard rails on all open sides, with no gaps where a child could slip or become trapped.
Age and weight limits: Follow the manufacturer's specific requirements.
Recall status: Check the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission at CPSC Recalls.
Supervision: Stay within arm’s reach, and keep your toddler away from knives, hot pans, stovetops and hot liquids.
One quick question
How old is your toddler, and what budget are you hoping to stay within? That will help me narrow this down to the safest suitable options rather than just the ones with the most enclosing rails.
When choosing a learning tower with extra enclosure features like guard rails or safety nets, several options stand out for their focus on stability, secure backing, and practical kitchen integration.
Isabelle & Max Foldable Toddler Tower with Safety Net | Wayfair
Features a 3-sided solid wooden structure paired with a reinforced rear safety net enclosure to prevent backward slips or leaning falls.
Includes adjustable platform heights and a foldable design for easy storage.
Guidecraft Classic Kitchen Helper / Learning Tower | Guidecraft Kids’ Furniture and Toys& more | 4.7(461)
Known for high-stability enclosed wooden rails surrounding the standing platform on all four sides, offering a classic enclosed wooden "bar" guard rail rather than a net.
Features secure locking safety mechanisms and high weight capacities.[1][2]
If you'd like, let me know:
I can help narrow down the best specific model for your kitchen setup.
