What is Latch?
[[File:Latch lock.jpg|thumb|right|This latch can be opened from outside the door or from inside.]] [[File:Gate latch.jpg|thumb|right|A latch is used to close a farm gate, but is also easy to open.]] [[File:LV Steamer Trunk.jpg|thumb|right|A [[lock]] and two latches on a [[Trunk (luggage)|trunk]]]] [[File:Gillette Castle window latch.jpg|thumb|right|This window latch can hold the window open or hold it closed.]] A '''latch''' is a type of [[Household hardware|hardware]] that is used to join two [[wikt:object|object]]s together. A latch often keeps [[animal]]s or [[wind]] from opening something. This could be a [[door]] or a [[gate]]. Unlike a [[lock]], a latch is easy to open if you know how, so it can be convenient on a gate that needs to be opened often. * a '''childproof latch''' (also called a baby latch) is [[design]]ed to keep children from opening doors or drawers. They keep children from getting into things such as household cleaners, medicines, matches or knives.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.cpsc.gov/en/Safety-Education/Safety-Guides/Kids-and-Babies/Childproofing-Your-Home--12-Safety-Devices-To-Protect-Your-Children/ |title=Childproofing Your Home |author= |date= |website= |publisher=Consumer Product Safety Commission |accessdate=7 June 2015 |archive-date=27 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150727151625/http://www.cpsc.gov/en/Safety-Education/Safety-Guides/Kids-and-Babies/Childproofing-Your-Home--12-Safety-Devices-To-Protect-Your-Children/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> * a '''gate latch''' is used for outdoor gates. There are a wide variety of types. There are also a number of considerations before choosing a gate latch.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.360yardware.com/gate_latches.htm |title=All About Gate Latches |author= |date= |website= |publisher=360Yardware |accessdate=7 June 2015}}</ref> * a '''Touch latch''' holds a door in the closed position. It releases with a gentle touch on the door.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.wwhardware.com/wood-technology-mechanical-touch-latch-sp266 |