Once your baby is able to sit on their own and eat solid food, a baby chair becomes a necessity. The problem is that high chairs come in different types, from traditional and convertible to foldable and clamp-on chairs. Each type offers different benefits.

No need to worry. the kind wash is here to help. Below we explain the different types of baby chairs. We also have reviews of some of the best high chairs on the market. If you don’t know where to start, you can check them out.

To make buying a high chair even easier for you, we have a guide on how to choose the right chair for your little one, factors to consider when buying a chair, and more.

Why Is a Baby Chair Necessary?

Comparing Different Types of Baby Chairs

Most baby gear has a relatively short life cycle. This is hardly a surprise. After all, children grow fast. What about high chairs? Do you really need one? You do, and here’s why.

Self-feeding Support

The main reason why a baby chair is necessary is because it supports self-feeding. The chair enables your little one to quickly learn to feed themselves. High chairs give children the freedom to explore, play, grab objects, and eat their favorite foods by themselves.

The more a child learns how to feed themselves in a high chair, the more they will learn about the foods they’re eating. Moreover, they will learn to navigate their hunger cues.

The chair facilitates them to learn how to eat only the amount they want at each mealtime. Your little one will develop motor skills such as practicing feeding themselves or pincer grasp objects.

Easy Cleanup

As your baby practices feeding themselves, they will create a mess. This is where a baby chair comes in handy. Not only does the chair provide a safe space for your baby, but it also makes cleaning up easy.

Some chairs come with a dishwasher-safe tray, machine-washable straps, and seat cushions, making cleaning a breeze. Easy cleanup means less time is spent cleaning the mess and more time to spend with your little one.

Including Your Little One at Mealtime

You don’t need a baby chair to include your baby at mealtime. That’s true, but with a chair, it is easier to do. A high chair provides your little one with their own seat at the dinner table. Mealtimes are important for family members to gather together.

By sitting on a high chair, your little one will learn how to socialize at the dinner table. They can see and interact with the other family members as well as learn table manners. A high chair also simplifies mealtimes as your child stays in one place while you feed them.

Safety and Security

Last but not least, safety and security. One of the reasons why a high chair is necessary is because it provides safety and security. The best chairs offer robust safety features to accommodate children and make them comfortable. They also come with straps that secure your little one in place.

Adjustable high chairs are the best options. Your child will outgrow their chair quickly. Having an adjustable high chair means you can adjust the chair to accommodate their needs and keep them safe and secure.

When Can a Baby Sit in a High Chair?

The answer depends on the high chair and the purpose. If the purpose is to use a high chair for feeding, then the appropriate age is around 4 to 6 months for most babies. Some high chairs are designed for newborns. They are usually able to recline and can be adjusted to meet the babies’ needs as they grow.

These high chairs, however, are not suitable for feeding. High chairs can be used for feeding when the babies are developmentally ready and have learned the right skills and can eat solid food.

Just as a baby car seat must be properly installed and adjusted to ensure the child’s safety, a high chair must be properly assembled and adjusted to ensure the baby’s comfort and safety during mealtimes.

There are two signs that show a baby can safely sit in a baby chair for feeding. Firstly, they have good head control and stability. Secondly, they are able to sit independently with little support.

Initially, your little one won’t be able to hold their head up for more than a minute or two. As time goes on, they will be able to hold their head up and maintain an upright posture. If your baby’s head droops to the side or their posture dips, they’re not ready yet for a baby chair.

How to Use a Baby Chair Safely

Comparing Different Types of Baby Chairs

When it comes to a high chair for your baby, you want it to be as safe as possible. Of course, that includes using the chair safely. The good news is that using a high chair is a straightforward process. The following will help you use the chair safely.

• Choose a sturdy and stable chair. This ensures that your little one is seated comfortably and safely.
• Use the chair on a flat, firm surface. Always use the harness to strap your baby in.
• Check the leg locking mechanism. Read the high chair manual so you’ll know if the legs are locked in place properly.
• Never leave your baby unsupervised in the high chair. Before you strap your baby in, make sure that the food, utensils, and anything else you’ll need for mealtime are within reach.
• Place the high chair close enough to the table. This will make them feel they’re part of family mealtimes. Just don’t place the chair too close so that your baby can reach plates, hot foods, knives, or other items they shouldn’t touch.

Types of Baby Chairs

High chairs come in different types. Knowing the types will make it easier for you to find the right one for your child. After all, each type is designed to meet certain needs.

Traditional high chairs

This is the most common type of high chair. They’re widely available on the market. Generally, traditional chairs are big, practical, and comfortable. Due to their larger footprints, traditional high chairs aren’t the best option if space is an issue, as they take a lot of space.

Traditional high chairs typically have a removable tray, padded cushions, and a basket underneath. Their size makes them feel stable, but the downside is that it takes up room. They’re suitable for a decent-sized kitchen or dining room.

The base of traditional high chairs resembles that of a robust dining chair, offering not only stability but also durability. The base is usually broad and solid for maintaining balance. The wide base offers excellent stability and ensures that the chairs won’t easily tip over.

One distinctive feature of traditional high chairs is their upright design. They’re designed to encourage good posture. Traditional high chairs are meant to be stationary in the dining areas, which explains their design, substantial footprint, and lack of portability.

Foldable high chairs

Foldable high chairs offer a lot of features of traditional high chairs without taking up as much space. They make an excellent choice if space is an issue. They’re designed to have smaller footprints and minimize the area they occupy.

They’re suitable for smaller households and parents who want a less cluttered dining area. Unlike traditional high chairs, foldable high chairs offer much portability. They’re lightweight, and you won’t find much trouble moving them around. And yes, they’re travel-friendly, too. Similar to how a foldable baby stroller offers convenience and portability for parents on the go, a foldable high chair provides a space-saving solution for families with limited space.

In addition to more portability, they also offer easy storage. A foldable baby chair can be collapsed or folded, which means it takes even less space to store. After the meal is done, you can store the chair, thus freeing up space and making the area less cluttered.

Due to their size, foldable high chairs may not come with as many features as their traditional counterparts. This may or may not be an issue depending on what you’re looking for in a baby chair.

Convertible high chairs

Convertible high chairs are designed to grow with the child. As their name suggests, these chairs can be converted to various forms to suit the changing needs of the growing child. Due to their adaptability, their utility goes beyond that of traditional high chairs.

As an example, you can transform a baby chair into a toddler chair. It accommodates the needs of your little one as they grow while keeping them comfortable and safe. Some chairs can also be converted to a booster seat, allowing the child to join the family at mealtimes.

One of the best things about convertible high chairs is that they have long-term usefulness. You can simply convert the chair to meet their needs. These chairs can be expensive, however. But if you’re willing to spend more, a convertible high chair is a worthy investment.

Clamp-on high chairs

Clamp-on high chairs that clamp onto a table instead of standing on their own. Like foldable high chairs, they have small footprints. Most clamp-on high chairs are foldable and can be carried around. They’re extremely portable.

As convenient as they are, these chairs can only accommodate a child up to the age of 3. You won’t find them having as many features as traditional high chairs do, either.

In addition, they’re only suitable for thick and sturdy tables. If your table is thin, not sturdy, or made of glass, look for other types of high chairs.

Single-stem high chairs

Unlike traditional high chairs, single-stem high chairs stand on one leg. Their unique design makes them stand out easily. They’re also quite effective with plenty of useful features such as a 360-degree rotation, height adjustments, and a pneumatic lift, among others.

The downside is that these chairs are fairly big and take up plenty of space. They can be expensive and don’t offer much in terms of adaptability. Just as regular laundry ensures clean clothes and a hygienic living environment, proper cleaning and maintenance of the high chair, especially the tray and seat, are crucial for maintaining a healthy and safe dining environment for your child.

Best High Chairs You Want to Check Out

1. Ingenuity Beanstalk

You don’t need to break the bank to get a good chair for your little one. The Ingenuity Beanstalk is an example of a good and affordable high chair. The price tag isn’t its only sell point, however. It offers a lot more, from convenient features to versatility and ease of use.

In addition, the chair grows with the child. From an infant seat and a standard baby chair to a booster seat and a toddler chair. You can convert the high chair as needed.

Not only that, but you can also use it as an infant seat and a booster seat simultaneously. This is a nice feature to have for parents with two babies. The design is simple, which is nice. Its colors are on the lighter side, which keeps the high chair from being too busy.

The baby chair is durable and stable. Plus, it has no crevices for food to get into. Wiping it down is easy as well. The removable tray is dishwasher-safe, making cleaning easy. If you’re on a budget and looking for a high chair for your little one, it is definitely worth checking out.

As good as it is, the Ingenuity Beanstalk is not without flaws. The chair is rather large and bulky. It takes a lot of space, so it might not be the best choice if you have limited space. It is also a bit bothersome due to the front wheels.

2. Graco Table2Table High Chair

If you’re looking for a baby chair that offers the best value for money, look no further than the Graco Table2Table. The chair grows with your little one. You can use the chair from infancy to toddlerhood. What makes the Graco Table2Table truly stand out is its versatility.

The Graco Table2Table has not two or three, but seven conversions. Firstly, it has a safe reclining infant seat. While this feature is certainly nice to have, it should only be used for supervised awake time only. After all, infants shouldn’t eat while reclining.

It can convert from a traditional baby chair to a booster seat, a toddler chair, as well as a two-piece toddler table and chair. In addition, you can have one piece as an infant booster seat and another as a toddler chair.

The high chair is durable and sturdy. The rear wheels make the chair easy to move around. On top of these, the high chair is foldable. No need to worry about storing and portability.

The baby chair wipes down nicely. The tray is dishwasher-safe. The cushion is machine washable, too. Do keep in mind that while the high chair is easy to clean, it does have some nooks and crannies in which food and milk can get trapped.

The rethread harness can be complicated. The chair is sturdy, but some may find it wobbles a bit. Also, its incredible versatility means there are lots of pieces to store.

3. Bugaboo Giraffe High Chair

While functionality is the top priority when it comes to high chairs, there are some high chairs that look good in just any room. Like the Bugaboo Giraffe baby chair, for example. The high chair is not only functional but also versatile and stylish.

Furthermore, it is designed to grow with the child. That’s right. From newborn through toddlerhood. If you don’t mind spending a little more on a high chair, it is definitely worth the investment.

The stylish design easily makes the high chair stand out. It looks good in any room. No worries, though. Good looks don’t come at the expense of functionality.

It has an adjustable seat and footrest. Adjusting them is easy. Simply push the side buttons to bring them up or down. The bucket seat is detachable and can be converted into a toddler chair. The harness buckles and tray make an audible click noise so you know they are in place.

The chair is quite sturdy. You’d find it hard to topple over. The Bugaboo Giraffe is a nice option if your little one likes to move a lot. The straps are removable, and they are machine washable. Plus, the wood and tray are easy to clean, too.

While the chair is easy to wipe down, it has a lot of nooks and crannies that are difficult to get to. It is worth mentioning that the high chair also has an optional newborn seat. The seat can be used from birth. It is, however, a separate purchase.

Just as a well-designed baby carrier can be both functional and stylish, offering comfort and support for both parent and child, the Bugaboo Giraffe high chair exemplifies a blend of aesthetics and practicality, seamlessly integrating into any home decor while providing a safe and comfortable dining experience for the child.

4. Munchkin 360 Cloud

The Munchkin 360 Cloud is a high chair that offers a lot. One of its impressive features is the 360-degree rotating seat. With the push of a button, you can rotate the chair in any direction. It is quite simple to clean, too, which is a plus for a baby chair.

You can swivel the seat, get your little one in or out, or turn them very easily. Just push a button, and that’s all it takes. What’s more, the setup is intuitive and easy. You’d probably be able to assemble the pieces in less than three minutes.

The rotating baby chair includes a cushion that provides additional support and comfort. Removing the cushion can be challenging, however. The baby chair is durable, so you can expect it to stand up to regular use. As convenient as it is, the chair has a large footprint as its legs spread outward.

The straps are situated at the bottom of the seat. This makes using the harness slightly difficult. You have to lift the straps first and then place them over the baby’s shoulders.

5. Stokke Steps

The 2-in-1 chair converts from a high chair to a toddler chair. While the chair is designed to seat babies and toddlers, it has a weight capacity of 187 pounds. Quite impressive for a baby chair. The chair is designed to be sturdy and durable and can last for a long time.

Safety is always a priority when it comes to high chairs. This Stokke Steps takes it up a notch. In addition to its durability, sturdiness, and impressive weight capacity, the chair also comes with a five-point harness.

The harness is convenient and easy to use. You just need to clip three parts together, and it is set. You can adjust the straps as needed without having to rethread them. The Stokke Steps, however, do not come with a tray.

This is a plus because it means the chair takes less space. Plus, you can slide it under the table just like any other chair. The downside is that you can’t use the chair on its own for mealtimes. You need to place it against a table every mealtime.

If you want a tray, you can either purchase it separately or buy the complete set. Note that the chair is on the more expensive side. The tray or complete set will add to its already high price. But if you don’t mind spending more, the chair is definitely worth the investment.

Aside from convenience, the chair also offers stability and easy cleaning. Except for the straps, the chair is all wood, thus making cleaning it a breeze. With proper care, the chair can retain its look for years to come. Just as with stroller cleanliness, stroller cleaning service from the kind wash, it helps maintain the stroller’s hygiene and appearance. Proper cleaning and maintenance of the Stokke Steps high chair will ensure its longevity and continued safety for your child.

6. Ergobaby Evolve

The Ergobaby Evolce is a three-in-one high chair. It transforms from a baby chair to a toddler chair and kitchen helper. The chair is versatile, durable, and low-maintenance, making it a solid option for parents who want a hassle-free high chair for their little ones.

The chair is not just versatile and convenient, however. It is also stylish. Made from solid and white plastic, the chair flaunts a sleek and modern design. It easily stands out but not too much; it becomes an eyesore.

It has a wide seat opening and comes with a removable tray. Both of these features make for easy ins and outs. The chair has a five-point harness for security, and it is easy to adjust. As a three-in-one high chair, the Ergobaby Evolve is a breeze to configure.

The seat is detachable, which means folding and storage won’t be an issue. The chair is lightweight, but it feels sturdy. Cleaning won’t be an issue, either. If anything, it will be effortless.

The removable top tray is dishwasher-safe. Meanwhile, you can just wipe down the surfaces of the tray, seat, and legs to clean them. The footrest may collect food, but it is removable, so cleaning it is easy. The removable tray’s locking system could be more efficient, though.

7. Stokke Clikk

The Stokke Clikk is a very durable baby chair. It is easy to clean and a breeze to put together as well. Assembling the parts takes just about six minutes. The chair comes with a detachable tray that can go in the dishwasher. What makes the tray unique is that it has a slight lip, which keeps food from falling.

The chair comes with a chic Scandinavian design that minimalist parents would love. The removable tray is easy to attach and detach. You will hear a clicking sound when it securely locks into place. The straps are easy to adjust once they are lined up.

The chair’s footrest is both removable and adjustable. You can adjust it to make sure your little one is comfortable while in the seat. An optional cushion is available for added comfort.

High chairs get dirty often. When you shop for high chairs, you want one that can be cleaned effortlessly. The Stokke Clikk offers that as well. Cleaning the chair is quite easy. The footrest is detachable, and the seat is smooth, allowing you to wipe them down quickly.

The chair is built to be durable. It can withstand regular use with ease and last for a long time. It is also lightweight, making it easy to move from one room to another. While the chair is overall easy to clean, the straps can be tricky to clean as they are not removable.

8. Mockingbird High Chair

The Mockingbird high chair offers ease of use, versatility, and durability. The chair is both baby- and parent-friendly. This isn’t surprising since the baby chair is designed with everyday use in mind. Moving the chair is as easy as it gets.

The chair does not have any wheels or wheel locks, but it can glide easily across the floor. What’s more impressive is that this maneuverability doesn’t come at the expense of safety.

Pads and additional features for comfort are nice to have. However, chairs with such features can end up becoming more difficult to clean. The Mockingbird high chair isn’t like that. It has a more straightforward shape.

It has fewer curves and grooves in which food can get trapped. Wiping it down with a wet cloth is enough to take care of the mess. Of course, an occasional deeper clean will be necessary, but that’s about it.

In terms of setup, the Mockingbird is rather intuitive. The baby chair has two basic setups: a traditional high chair and a booster seat when you remove the baby seat. Both setups are functional and allow the chair to grow with your little one.

The tray and footrest are adjustable so you can set the chair as comfortably as possible for your baby. The tray is flat. This allows you to place just about any type of plate or cup on the tray. The safety strap can be a bit difficult to set, however.

9. Graco Blossom 6-in-1 Convertible High Chair

If you’re looking for an affordable baby chair that offers all of the necessary features of a high chair, consider the Graco Blossom. The six-in-one convertible high chair can convert from an infant high chair to a traditional high chair, baby booster, toddler booster, and youth chair.

In addition, the separate booster allows the chair to seat two kids simultaneously. It comes with a one-handed tray that comes in and out with the push of a button. Thanks to this feature, you can slip your little one in and out easily. No need to remove the tray.

The Graco Blossom’s fabric is not only easy to remove but also washable. It comes off in a single piece, which makes it easy to clean. For most days, wiping with a wet cloth is enough to clean all the mess.

While the tray offers convenience, it has divided sections and raised edges. On one hand, the sections can keep plates and cups in place.

10. Peg Perego Siesta High Chair

The Peg Perego Siesta is an interesting combination of functionality and aesthetics. The baby chair is simply visually appealing, but looks are not the only thing it offers. Let’s talk about the design first. It comes with a sleek Italian design, making it an excellent choice for fans of modern aesthetics.

The high chair offers nine height adjustments, which is incredible for a high chair. Its customizability allows it to grow with the child and accommodate children of varying ages. Furthermore, it can also fold into an upright standing position. As such, portability won’t be an issue.

You can slide the tray on and off with one hand. Cleaning is a breeze as well. The high chair comes with premium fabric and easy-rolling wheels. The chair can’t convert into a toddler chair or a booster seat. It, however, boasts a weight capacity of 45 pounds, which allows you to use it for years to come.

Aside from the impressive height adjustments, the Peg Perego Siesta also has an adjustable footrest. You can adjust the footrest in three positions. The chair is on the bulkier side, however. Plus, while the wheels roll easily, maneuvering them can be a bit difficult.

11. Stokke Tripp Trapp High Chair

The Stokke Tripp Trapp high chair offers robust convertibility. It can convert from a baby chair into an adult chair. The chair is designed to last and grow with the child. It comes with an ergonomic design, allowing your little one to sit properly and comfortably.

The chair sports an all-wood Scandinavian design. If you’d like to avoid plastic baby chairs, the Stokke Tripp Trapp is a good option. It looks no different from other pieces of real furniture. The base has a Z-shaped design, which eliminates a trip hazard.

What’s more, the wood and tray are not only stain-resistant but also easy to clean. If you like the look of the wooden chair, no worries. It will last for a long time.

The Stokke Tripp Trapp has a higher price tag. That said, the chair is designed to stand the test of time, so it is worth the investment. It also comes in a variety of colors. Regardless of your décor, the chair will fit in nicely.

In addition to its price, the Stokke Tripp Trapp is rather complicated to assemble. If you dislike complicated assembly and adjustments, it might not be the best option for you.

The chair doesn’t offer much in terms of mobility and portability as well. But if you’re looking for a baby chair that can last for many years to come, the Stokke Tripp Trapp is definitely worth checking out.

12. Baby Jogger City Bistro High Chair

Having limited space doesn’t mean you can’t have a nice baby chair. The Baby Jogger City Bistro high chair offers a lot despite its smaller footprint. The high chair has sleek fabric and a sleek profile, making it feel like a stroller. It is collapsible, too, just like a stroller.

The slim, minimalistic design is quite attractive. The chair is easy to use. Cleaning is easy, too. Plus, the chair stands up well to messes and some liquid stains. Not only is the chair slim, but it is also easy to fold, which further reduces its already small footprint.

As good as it is, the baby chair does not offer a transitional or convertible seat. Its weight capacity is only 40 pounds, which is understandable considering its slim profile.

13. IKEA Antilop

The IKEA Antilop is as straightforward as it gets. It is a compact, functional, and lightweight baby chair that is easy to use and clean. The chair has a smooth, rounded seat and tray made of plastic. While the chair is lightweight, it is sturdy.

The design is rather simple. Some may find it plain. The chair has clean lines and a white and silver design. Its neutral design allows the IKEA Antilop to fit in just about any décor. Plus, it has a minimalist appeal to it too. The removable tray makes it easy to store and move around.

The high chair is essentially one piece of plastic. It has no nooks or crannies where food can get trapped in. There are no spaces where liquid can pool, either. The straps are easy to remove and machine washable. The tray is dishwasher-safe. All these make the Antilop quite easy to clean.

What’s more, the baby chair is quite affordable. If you’re on a budget and looking for a good high chair for your little one, you’d want to check out the IKEA Antilop.

The downside is that the chair is as basic as it can be. It doesn’t come with extra features that many high-end high chairs consider to be standard. For example, a reclining seat back or different height adjustments.

14. Phil&teds Lobster Clip-On High Chair

Perhaps you want a very compact baby chair? If the answer is yes, you wouldn’t want to miss the Phil & teds Lobster Clip-On high chair. The chair weighs about 4 pounds. You can put it inside a diaper bag or suitcase with ease. Indeed, it is extremely portable.

The high chair also has little to no small footprint. As the name suggests, the Phil & teds Lobster Clip-On high chair clamps right to the table. You can fit in small spaces that many other high chairs cannot. It comes already assembled.

Parts like the cover and shoulder straps are removable for easy cleaning. While the chair offers convenience, it does have limitations. For example, it needs a sturdy and stable table to be used. It also needs to be locked on properly.

Just as regular brand shoes cleaning helps maintain the appearance and longevity of your shoes, proper cleaning and maintenance of the Phil & teds Lobster Clip-On high chair will ensure its durability and safety for your child.

Features to Look for in a Baby Chair

Comparing Different Types of Baby Chairs

When you shop around for a high chair, you’ll realize that there are lots and lots of options available out there. In addition, high chairs offer a wide range of features. These can make finding the right baby chair for your little one a daunting task.

There’s no need to worry, though. We are here to help. Below, we list some important features to look for in a high chair.

Functionality

The first and foremost feature to look for is functionality. The chair should allow you to easily get your baby in and out of it. It should also fit the space where you plan to use it. These are the bare minimum for a high chair.

Other functions are optional. Whether they are important will depend on what you are seeking in a high chair. For example, a one-handed tray is a nice feature to have. Much like how professional cleaning services adapt to different needs, high chairs should be versatile to accommodate various family requirements.

High chairs with wheels are convenient. Especially so if you will be moving the chair a lot. If you look for such a chair, you must make sure that the wheel locks can keep the chair stationary when in use. Space is also something to consider.

Some models are designed for small spaces. Others have larger footprints but can be folded for easy storage. If you have a lot of free spaces, a large footprint won’t be an issue. Conversely, if you have little room to spare, a chair that doesn’t take up a lot of space will be your best option.

A baby chair that grows with the baby is nice, too. The good news is the majority of high chairs today come with a transition option. Meaning, they can last for years and can be adjusted to accommodate your little one as needed.

Safety features

Safety is a top priority when it comes to high chairs. The chair will seat your little one. You want it to be as safe as possible. The right baby chair will be the one that fits your baby nicely. If the chair is too small, their body might get pinched. If it is too big, they could wiggle out if they move around a lot.

The chair should have straps that are easy to buckle and unbuckle. Keep in mind that most high chair accidents happen because babies aren’t buckled in. So, look for straps that are easy to manage. A five-point harness is the safest option.

A five-point harness is a harness with two shoulder straps, two waist straps, and one crotch strap. These straps hold the child in place, keeping them from falling. As a comparison, a three-point harness only has two waist straps and one crotch strap.

A three-point harness is worth considering, but a five-point harness is safer. Not all five-point harnesses are built the same, however. For example, shoulder straps that attach at shoulder height are better than ones that attach to the back of the waist strap.

At that height, the straps can provide more restraint. Where the crotch strap is anchored makes a difference as well. It should be close enough to the back so it won’t allow the baby to slip through one but not too close so it restricts movement.

The buckles should be difficult to release for the babies but easy for the parents. The harness should be non-removable or at least difficult to remove. This is to ensure that it stays in place unless it is necessary to be removed.

Comfort

Next is comfort. Your baby won’t stay seated long enough for a meal if they aren’t comfortable. So, comfort is crucial. Your own ease of use is something you need to consider as well.

A good baby chair is comfortable for the baby to sit in. It should have a well-padded seat and footrest for your little one’s comfort. Maintaining cleanliness is crucial, which is why many parents also invest in specialized cleaning services like pram wash to keep baby gear in top condition. The chair should also be portable so you can lift and move it around with ease.

Regular cleaning of the high chair’s seat, tray, and harness is essential to maintain hygiene and provide a safe and healthy dining environment for your baby.

Ease of Cleaning

Babies are messy eaters. Regardless of what kind of high chair you have, it will get messy. Since it is bound to happen, you’d want a chair that is easy to clean. The easier it is to clean, the better. An easy-to-clean chair lets you clean it quickly, allowing you to use it for the next mealtime without a hassle.

The ease of cleaning can vary between high chairs. For example, most high chairs have a vinyl seat that can be wiped clean. There are also some high chairs that come with a dishwasher-safe tray and machine-washable straps and cushions.

Some chairs have an extra tray. So if the main tray is dirty, you can use the extra one in the meantime. Others come with the tray-within-a-tray feature, and so on.

When buying a high chair, check out how the frame and cushion fit together. The fewer crevices and seams the chair has, the easier it is to clean and maintain.

You’d also want to look for models with a smooth and easy-to-wipe surface. Just like how you need specialized tools and techniques for boots cleaning, cleaning a high chair effectively requires the right approach.

Construction and Durability

A baby chair should be robust and sturdy enough to carry the weight of a child. You can test the construction of a chair by pushing its seat and backrest. They shouldn’t move out of position, sag, squeak, or deform when you push them.

Durability is important, especially if you want to use the chair for years to come. Make sure to buy a model that can withstand daily usage with ease.

Some chairs may be on the more expensive side. But if they’re durable, they will be a worthy investment. After all, they can last for a long time and can be used for multiple children. It would save a lot of money down the line, much like how investing in specialized services like sport shoes cleaning can help maintain the quality of your sports shoes.

Stability

Needless to say, a high chair must be stable. While every child is different, they all tend to grow quickly in the first few years. As such, you want to invest in a high-quality baby chair that offers stability and sturdiness for extended usage.

You should always take your baby’s age and weight into consideration when shopping for a high chair. Read each product description detail and make a purchase accordingly. A chair with a sturdy and broad base offers stability and isn’t easy to tip over if the child moves.

The best option here is a chair with spread-out legs. Legs that spread outwards provide better stability than perfectly vertical legs. Before assembling the chair, it’s a good idea to clean your hands and any tools you’ll be using.

Adjustability

The more adjustable a high chair is, the better. Adjustability means that you can set the chair to meet your little one’s changing needs. Every child is different, so features like height and recline adjustment are certainly handy.

Height adjustment ensures that you can make the chair as comfortable as possible for your child. It also means that the chair will grow with your little one, as it can be adjusted to accommodate their needs. One thing to note is that the mechanism should be easy for you to use but not for your child.

Portability

You want a baby chair that you can move around or lift easily, especially if you plan to move the chair often. The good news is many chairs have wheels.

If you’re going for a chair with wheels, make sure that it has easy-rolling wheels for easy movement. It should also have brakes that lock in a position where you want to use it. If the chair has no wheels, make sure that it is lightweight enough for you to lift.

Space-saving Design

If space is a concern, look for models with space-saving designs. Traditional high chairs, while robust and coming with lots of features, have substantial footprints. They take up a lot of space, which makes them less ideal for limited space.

Foldable high chairs would be a better option. Not only do they have smaller footprints, but they can also be folded and collapsed, reducing their already small footprints further. Foldable high chairs often are travel-friendly, too.

The downside is that foldable chairs may not come with as many features as their traditional counterparts do. Depending on what you’re looking for in a high chair, this may or may not be an issue.

Some Useful Tips

On one hand, having so many options means you’ll find chairs that will fit your little one’s needs. On the other hand, it can make it difficult to start your buying journey. Here are some useful tips that will help you get started on your journey and make it less stressful.

Know Your Budget

When you have a baby, you probably have figured out how many things there are to buy. If you have set your budget for a high chair already, try to stick to it.

No need to worry about not finding the right chair for your baby. Why? Because high chairs are available at a wide range of prices. You should find some that suit your budget.

If you’re willing to spend extra, that’s good too. After all, a high chair is an investment. And if you invest right, you’ll get a chair that can grow with your baby.

Consider the Space You Have

How much space do you have in your kitchen (or any other place where you’ll be feeding your child)? The larger the space you have, the more options you can choose.

If you have plenty of space, you can afford to buy a larger high chair. If you have limited space, a high chair with a space-saving design can be a good option. You can fold such a chair when you don’t need it, thus keeping your kitchen from being too crowded.

A travel high chair can be a good option as well. That is, if you don’t mind putting it up and down whenever you need to use it. You can also use a clip-on high chair once your little one can sit up by themselves.

If Necessary, Make Portability a Priority

Portability is always welcome. But if your family likes to get around a lot, you might want to make it a priority. Having a portable and foldable baby chair will make feeding your little one less of a hassle.

It can make a good feeding experience for them as well. You won’t need to worry whether there is a high chair for your baby and they won’t need to adapt to an unfamiliar chair during your family’s travels.

Think about the Accessories

When it comes to high chairs, there are plenty of accessories or add-ons available. For example, clip-on trays, extra cushion sets, and storage sets for storing items like cutlery and muslin, just to name a few.

While accessories are not a must, they can make the feeding experience for your little one better. So, they’re certainly worth considering, especially if you have the budget for it. Just make sure that the accessories you buy are compatible with the baby chair.

Cleaning a Baby Seat

Babies are messy eaters. You can expect to clean the baby chair often. The question is, how often should you clean the chair? Also, what kind of cleaning should you do for daily and monthly cleaning?

How Often Should You Clean It?

You need to clean a baby chair after every single use. Unless the chair is really dirty, you don’t have to deep clean it. A quick wipe-down after each meal is enough for regular maintenance. You can do a deep clean every month or so.

If you wipe down the chair frequently and consistently, there will be less buildup. As a result, you won’t need to do much cleaning when the time comes to do a deep clean.

Daily Cleaning

Professional cleaning services, such as those offering specialized boots cleaning, understand the importance of thorough and systematic cleaning – a principle that applies equally to maintaining a baby chair.

Once the chair is free of bits and spatter, take a damp cloth and wipe the chair down with it. Pay close attention to areas in which food may get trapped and high-touch areas.

To prevent bacteria buildup, you can sanitize the tray at the end of the day. Wipe the tray clean with a damp cloth and mild detergent.

Monthly Cleaning

Even if you clean the baby chair regularly, an occasional deep clean will still be needed. However, the amount of work to do depends on how you clean the chair daily. For the deep cleaning process, you’ll need to disassemble the chair. Thoroughly clean nooks and crannies that you might have missed during daily cleaning.

If the cushions and straps are removable, remove them and clean them. Some cushions and straps are machine washable, which makes cleaning much easier. Make sure to read the high chair manual before you deep clean the chair.

However, no matter how clean you clean it, you still need professional deep cleaning services to ensure your baby’s health.

What Makes a Baby Chair Safe?

Since safety is a top priority when it comes to a baby chair, you’d want to know what makes it safe in the first place. The following are the four things that make a high chair safe.

A good structure and stability

A high chair with a good structure and stability means that it can safely bear the weight of a baby without falling apart. Such a chair is made of strong, durable material that is good at bearing weight and doesn’t wear out easily.

Kids can get quite playful during meal times. Thus, a stable base is a must in a baby chair. A stable base is usually wide so that it can balance the weight evenly and keep the chair from tipping over.

If you’re shopping around for a high chair, avoid those that are too light in weight. Such chairs can easily lose their center of gravity and tip over, making them unsafe to use for your little one.

A secure locking mechanism

Some high chairs are equipped with wheels at their base. This feature enables parents and caregivers to move the chair easily. The feature is undoubtedly practical and useful. However, if you’re looking for a high chair with wheels, make sure that it has a secure locking mechanism.

A secure locking mechanism ensures that the chair stays in place once the wheels are locked. Without a secure locking mechanism, the chair will move when the child gets playful while they are sitting on the chair. This can result in food spills, falls, injuries, and other accidents.

A reliable restraint system

A restraint system might sound limiting, especially for parents who want to give more freedom to their baby during meal times. A reliable restraint system, however, is necessary. It can help babies and toddlers be properly positioned. More importantly, it prevents falls.

Some high chairs come with a five-point harness while others come with a three-point harness. The five-point harness is safer, and it is ideal for younger children.

A five-point harness secures the child at five points: across the hips, over the shoulders, and between the legs. It makes it harder for children to slide, climb, or fall off the chair.

Safe, non-toxic materials and finishes

A baby chair is safe if it is made of safe, non-toxic materials. High chairs are a part of children’s daily routine. They sit on them multiple times a day. Just as parents invest in specialized cleaning services like bag cleaning to maintain the quality of their belongings, they should be equally meticulous about the materials used in baby gear.

Safe high chairs are free of toxic materials and chemicals, which include BPAs, phthalates, and lead, among others. Make sure that the chair you choose is free of such toxic materials.

Why Is Using a Safety Harness Important?

A safety harness limits the freedom of movement of the child. Unsurprisingly, some parents are thinking whether using it is important. Also, it is quite tempting to not use the harness, as it enables more free meal times.

While giving your little one some freedom during meal times isn’t a bad idea, their safety should be the top priority. Using a safety harness ensures that your child is secured in place. It can help them sit properly and prevent them from falling from the chair.

Indeed, it isn’t just about providing convenience for parents and caregivers. Baby chairs are designed with safety in mind. Safety harnesses are a crucial part of that design.

Should You Buy a Used Baby Chair?

Most baby gear has a short life cycle as babies seemingly outgrow them in no time. Unsurprisingly, many parents think that buying new baby equipment is a waste of money. There are also parents who don’t need baby equipment for long or who are under budget.

This is where secondhand baby gear comes in handy. They offer the same functionality at lower costs. The question is, should you buy a used baby chair? What are the pros and cons of buying a used high chair?

Pros

• A used high chair will cost you a fraction of a new chair. If you’re under budget, it is an excellent money-saving idea.
• A used high chair offers the same features as well as the functionality of a new one. The difference is in the price.
• A used high chair is an excellent option if you don’t need it for long.

Cons

• One of the main disadvantages of buying a used baby chair is you never know how long it will last. Furthermore, there is no guarantee on the product. If the chair gets damaged or breaks, your money is gone.
• There is no guarantee that the chair’s features and functionality will work. Safety is the biggest concern when it comes to secondhand baby stuff.
• A used high chair won’t look as good as a new one. This, however, depends largely on how long the chair has been used. The longer it is, the more wear and tear the chair shows.

Secondhand baby stuff, including a baby chair, is a viable option for various reasons. Just keep in mind the pros and cons of a used chair before you make a purchase.

How to Check If a Secondhand High Chair Is Safe to Use

If you decide to buy a used baby chair, there are things you need to do to ensure its safety. Again, safety is the topmost concern when buying a high chair. Especially so if it is a used one. The lower price shouldn’t come at the expense of safety.

Here’s how to check if a secondhand chair is safe to use.

1. Determine the chair’s sturdiness.

Check the high chair thoroughly. See if the chair is stable on flat, firm ground or if there are any balance issues. Children like to move a lot. So you’d want a stable chair that won’t tip over even if your little one moves a lot. Just like proper sneaker cleaning involves a thorough inspection for wear and tear, checking a used baby chair requires a careful examination of all its components.

2. Check if there is any part that could compromise safety

Check the bolts and screws. Missing bolts and screws can compromise safety. If a bolt or screw is missing, the attachments of the chair are compromised. This poses a threat to your baby’s safety. Either get the chair restored or simply look for other options.

3. Check if it has a safety harness. 

A safety harness is a must, preferably if it is a five-point harness. A safety harness keeps the child safely in the chair. It also makes them sit in an upright position. Without a safety harness, the child can easily fall to the ground as nothing holds them in place. You’d want a chair with a functional harness.

4. Look for any sharp edges or broken parts.

Sharp edges or broken parts could cause harm to your little one. Make sure that the chair has none of these. Some edges can be restored, but we don’t recommend it. Just look for other options that have no sharp edges or broken parts.

5. Double-check the seat and cushion.

Are there any exposed foam and cracks in the seat and cushion? The seat and cushion should be clean and comfortable. If they have been unused and untouched for years, they can attract dust mites or other bugs, something you wouldn’t want to be anywhere near your child.

Not all used high chairs are the same. Some are in better condition than others. The lower price of used high chairs is certainly attractive. That said, you wouldn’t want to get a lower price tag at the expense of safety.

But only if the chair is in good condition with its safety features intact. It is better to spend extra if it means you can get a safe and comfortable chair for your little one.

Tips to Encourage Your Baby to Stay in Their Baby Chair

Make Sure They Are Comfortable

This is the first and foremost thing to do. Children don’t like to stay in one place for long. Even more so if they feel uncomfortable. Making sure that your little one is comfortable in their chair will encourage them to stay in their chair.

Comfort is an aspect that can be easily overlooked. After all, there are just so many things to do when you feed your baby. See if your little one is comfortable in their chair. You don’t want mealtimes to be a bad experience just because they feel uncomfortable in their chair. Adjust the chair as needed and make sure that your little one is comfortable before starting mealtime.

Make the Baby Chair a Happy Place

Mealtimes should be fun. And you want to create positive associations with them. If your baby becomes upset in the high chair, spend time away from mealtimes.

Do some fun activities while they are in the chair. It can be anything from messy play, drawing, or painting. This will help create positive associations and remove negative associations that they might have.

Be Realistic with the Duration

While the baby chair should be a happy place, your baby shouldn’t sit in their chair longer than necessary. The sitting duration should be appropriate for their personality and age. The food should be ready when you put them in the chair. When you see signs of fullness, finish the meal.

Take Your Baby Out of the Chair When Necessary

Babies’ reactions to being placed in a high chair vary from one to another. If your baby happens to move a lot to get themselves out of the chair, just take them out of the chair. Let them sit on your lap and continue the mealtime.

Do keep in mind that this isn’t forever. You do this to create positive associations in the long term. Think of it like one step back and two steps forward. Gradually encourage your little one to return to their chair by making it a happy place. Show them that you like it when they sit in their chair.

Remove Distractions

Sometimes, babies want to get out of their chairs because they are distracted. If this is the case with your little one, remove any distractions that keep them from staying in their chair.

Try to make sure there is nothing more appealing to them other than what’s on the table. Establishing a routine around meals can help to keep them in their chair, too.

Don’t Keep Them in Their Chair if They Don’t Want to

If your toddler wants to get out of their high chair, let them be. It might sound counterintuitive, but it is better than keeping them in their seat where they’re unwilling to be. This has to do with creating positive associations with mealtimes.

At the same time, you need to establish some boundaries. Determine to what extent you’re fine with your child getting up and down and when you want to end the mealtime. Note that there is no right or wrong here, as every family is different.

For example, you can set a rule that allows your child to get down, but they can’t bring down food with them. Don’t pay too much attention to your little one getting down. Just keep them safe and focus on your meal or what’s on the table to lure them back up.

Just as you wouldn’t force someone to wear uncomfortable leather shoes, don’t force your child to stay in the high chair if they’re clearly unhappy.

Use the Same Language

Maintain consistent body language and tone of voice when holding your baby. For example, when picking your baby up from a high chair or putting him or her in a high chair, smile gently and extend your arms while using soothing sounds, such as “Nah” or “Aww.” Consistency in movement and voice creates a safe environment where your baby can understand your intentions through body language and non-verbal cues.

Encourage Them to Come Back to the Table

Don’t let your child run around with food. Eating while moving is a choking hazard. If they get down from their chair, encourage them to come back to the table, but do so gently. Be their role model and try to make it enjoyable and pressure-free.

You want your child to feel they have some control over mealtimes. The goal is to make mealtimes a positive experience. This requires patience but, the results are worth it.

Do Some Activities before Mealtimes

Children like to move. Some of them are particularly energetic. This can make it difficult to encourage them to stay in their chair. If your little one is particularly energetic, you can do some activities before getting them in their high chair.

Letting off steam may help them sit still at the table. There are times when your child has been less active, which in turn makes it hard for them to stay in their chair. That is fine. Just set your expectations accordingly for those times.

Create a Mealtime Routine

If your child isn’t terribly hungry for a meal, they are less likely to stay still at the table and will be easily distracted by things around them. You can create a mealtime routine to deal with this.

Make sure that they don’t snack too much in between mealtimes. If they fill up too much before a mealtime, they will be less interested in solid foods and be less likely to sit still in their chair.

Finding the right baby chair for your little one can take some time. When you buy a high chair, make sure that it is safe, comfortable, easy to clean, and has features that accommodate your little one.

F.A.Q 

How to compare different types of baby chairs? 

• Compare by type (Traditional High Chair, Folding High Chair, Convertible High Chair, Clamp-on High Chair, Single Bar High Chair)
• Consider important factors, such as (Budget, Safety features, Stability, etc.)
• Match to your needs

Why is a baby chair necessary?

There are a few reasons why a baby chair is necessary. First, it helps support self-feeding, which is an important developmental milestone for babies. Second, it makes cleaning up after meals easier. Third, it provides a safe and secure place for your baby to sit at mealtimes.

When can a baby sit in a high chair?

Most babies can start sitting in a high chair around 4 to 6 months old, once they have good head and neck control. However, some high chairs are designed for newborns and can recline to accommodate them.

How to use a baby chair safely?

• Choose a sturdy and stable chair.
• Use the chair on a flat, firm surface.
• Always use the harness to strap your baby in.
• Check the leg locking mechanism to make sure the legs are locked in place properly.
• Never leave your baby unsupervised in the high chair.