The best high chairs offer parents and babies a safe, comfortable seating option that grows with the child. But like every product designed to help make parenting easier, there are so many options on the market that it is easy to get overwhelmed finding the right one.
In order to make your decision easier, we’ve put together this guide of the best high chairs on the market. We have considered things like ease of use, safety features, and design in our selections to ensure you are getting a quality product that will stand up to the test of time.
With our handy buyer’s guide, you’ll know exactly what to look for to find the perfect high chair. So, without further ado, let’s dive in and find the best high chair for you and your baby.
What is a High Chair?
As the name suggests, a high chair is a special kind of chair designed to be tall enough that babies and toddlers can sit at the same level as the rest of the family while eating.
High chairs come in all shapes, sizes, and designs, so it’s important to consider the features you need before making a purchase. Some of the more common features include adjustable heights, removable trays, and reclining seats.
High chairs are great for feeding but can often be used as a play area too. With that said, safety should always be your top priority when choosing a high chair, so make sure to look for features like non-skid feet and safety harnesses.
When to Start Using a High Chair?
Studies vary on the right time for a high chair, but most parents and pediatricians agree that as soon as your child is able to sit up unassisted, it’s time for a high chair. Typically, this age starts at six months but could be around nine months, depending on your child’s development.
Attempting to use a high chair before this age could be dangerous, so make sure to take your child’s development into account before making the purchase. It is always a good idea to talk with your pediatrician about the best time to introduce a high chair.
Top 4 Best High Chairs
1. The Baby Cubby – Best Overall High Chair
2. Bloom – Best Long-Term Use High Chair
3. Pishposhbaby – Easiest to Assemble
4. Evenflo – Best Budget-Friendly High Chair
Detailed Reviews of the Best High Chairs
1. The Baby Cubby – Best Overall High Chair
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Pros:
● Six different seating configurations
● Machine washable padding
● Modern, stylish design
● Stores easily when not in use
Cons:
● None
About The Baby Cubby
The Baby Cubby is a family-run business helping parents get everything they need to keep babies safe, entertained, and comfortable. Driven by the principles of quality, choice, and convenience, The Baby Cubby offers a massive selection of high-quality products that are sure to fit any lifestyle.
Hundreds of hours of careful research and vetting go into selecting the products they carry, so you can be sure that each and every item is of the highest quality. And with tons of resources for new and expecting parents, The Baby Cubby is the perfect one-stop-shop for all your baby’s needs.
The Baby Cubby’s Best High Chair
While the site features an array of high-quality high chairs, it is the Minla 6-in-1 from Maxi-Cosi that stands out. This lightweight chair offers six different seating configurations suitable for everything from eating at the table to comfortable lounging.
The modern design is highly functional, allowing for multiple tray table positions in the front and back of the high chair. This means parents can save time and effort when transitioning from mealtime to playtime.
The zippered cushioned padding that acts as the seat and backrest is also machine washable for easy cleanup. In addition, the chair folds compactly when not in use, making it perfect for small apartments or households with limited storage space.
With five different height positions and detachable parts for placement on top of other furniture, the Minla 6-in-1 is a must-have essential for modern parents. Orders made through The Baby Cubby qualify for free shipping, and the site price matches, so you can always feel confident that you’re getting the best deal.
Why We Chose Maxi-Cosi’s Minla 6-in-1
Its top-of-the-line safety features, easy mobility, and topple-proof design made the Minla 6-in-1 available from The Baby Cubby an easy choice for our list of best high-chairs. Plus, its thousands of positive reviews can’t be ignored, with many parents claiming it’s the best high chair they’ve ever used.
2. Bloom – Best Long-Term Use High Chair
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Pros:
● World’s tallest high chair
● Suitable for children 1 day to 8 years old
● Sleek, stylish look
● Dishwasher safe tray
Cons:
● Separate return policies for high chair pads and frame
About Bloom
Bloom features an array of products for babies, toddlers, and small children designed to last through growth spurts and beyond. From cribs to strollers, each product is designed to be used for years, creating a familiar and comfortable environment for your child as they grow.
Live chat support is super helpful for any questions you may have, and the secure payment platform accepts over 10 different payment methods.
Bloom’s Best High Chair
Nothing at Bloom quite beats the ultra-cool look of the Fresco Noir high chair. It is the world’s tallest high chair and allows growing children to be comfortable from newborn up to 8 years old.
With up to 36 inches of adjustable height, it’s easy to customize the chair to your space and find a comfortable spot for your growing child. The dishwasher safe tray makes clean-up time a breeze, while the sturdy steel frame is designed with longevity in mind.
The high chair also features soft padding that can be removed and cleaned as needed, giving it the perfect balance of comfort and convenience. And the removable and completely adjustable 5-point harness keeps your child safe and secure.
A wide base, sturdy design (31.5lb weight), and 360-degree rotation make the Fresco Noir a high chair built to last. It’s an excellent choice for any family looking for a long-term solution that grows with their child and is stylish enough to fit into any home.
Why We Chose Bloom’s Fresco Noir High Chair
The multiple recline and height settings, secure 5-point harness, dishwasher safe tray, and sleek modern look make the Fresco Noir high chair ideal for parents wanting to invest in a quality product that can serve as a safe infant high chair and then transition to a stylish, durable high chair that lasts through the years.
3. Pishposhbaby – Easiest to Assemble
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Pros:
● Simple design for fast assembly
● Suitable for ages 6 months to 6 years
● Anti-slip feet for added safety
● Lightweight and portable
Cons:
● Longer shipping times than other products on this list
About Pishposhbaby
Excelling at providing convenient-to-use and easy-to-assemble baby furniture, Pishposhbaby has become an industry leader in quality products for infants, toddlers, and small children. The site offers hundreds of products from trusted brands for everything from playtime to feeding to transport.
Previous customers have raved about the site’s customer service team, which is always available to answer any questions and help you find the perfect product for your needs.
Pishposhbaby’s Best High Chair
If you’re looking for a convertible high chair that is fast and easy to assemble, look no further than the Deluxe High Chair by Children By Design. This particular portable high chair manufacturer is known for its simple yet stylish designs, and the Deluxe High Chair is no exception.
This convertible high chair can be used by children from about 6 months to 6 years of age, making it an excellent long-term seat solution. The adjustable seat heights make it easy to adjust as your child grows, and its lightweight portability makes it easy to move from room to room.
This Children By Design’s high chair also features non-slip feet for added safety and is designed with a sturdy metal and wood frame for maximum stability, so your little one can safely enjoy meals and playtime with the family. The soft padded seat cushion is also removable and washable, making it easy to keep clean.
With options to become a highchair, booster seat, toddler seat, and their own “adult chair”, the Deluxe High Chair is able to meet the ever-changing needs of children and parents throughout the most crucial stages of development.
Why We Chose Pishposhbaby and Children By Design’s Deluxe High Chair
Pishposhbaby’s Deluxe High Chair from Children By Design is a simple yet stylish convertible high chair that stands out as one of the best on the market due to its easy assembly, adjustable seat heights, and lightweight, portable design that is perfect for parents with growing children.
4. Evenflo – Best Budget-Friendly High Chair
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Pros:
● Secure 5-point harness for wiggly babies
● 4-in-1 conversion for ages 6 months to 6 years
● Machine washable seat pad
● Easy-to-clean tray
Cons:
● Does not include dishwasher safe tray
About Evenflo
For over 100 years, Evenflo has provided the world with safe, innovative products for children. With their mission to locate and offer trusted solutions that help families live better lives, Evenflo is one of the leading brands in baby furnishings and supplies.
The brand’s site features an array of collections that make it easy to find the perfect product for your family’s needs. With detailed reviews and high-def photos of each item, you’ll be able to find the perfect baby or toddler accessories for your home.
Evenflo’s Best High Chair
When it comes to a portable high chair, it doesn’t get better than the Evenflo Eat & Grow™ 4 Mode High Chair. This affordable and portable option is perfect for parents looking for an all-in-one solution that grows with their child – and won’t break the bank.
With a fixed height of 24 inches and a weight capacity of 50 pounds, the high chair can accommodate children from 6 months to 6 years of age. The secure 5-point harness ensures that your child will be safe and comfortable as they enjoy their meals and keeps them from wriggling out during play or rest time.
The easy-clean tray needs only a wipe down with a warm, damp cloth, while the seat pad is machine washable to keep it looking its best. Four different configurations allow you to customize the chair for your child’s age, with high chair, booster seat, and child’s table + chair combo all available.
Why We Chose Evenflo’s Eat & Grow High Chair
With its portable design and a secure 5-point harness, the Eat & Grow™ 4 Mode High Chair by Evenflo is an excellent choice for parents looking for a budget-friendly portable high chair option. In addition, its easy-clean trays, machine washable seat pad, and four different configurations make it a great all-in-one solution for growing babies and toddlers alike.
How Did We Make This List of the Best High Chairs?
Knowing how essential it is for parents to choose the right high chair, we wanted to make sure that our list reflected not only the best products on the market but also what parents need when making a purchase.
We started by looking at the most essential criteria that ensure the safety of any child, such as sturdy frames, secure harnesses, and BPA-free materials.
Next, we looked at factors that make cleaning and transport easy, taking careful note of modular design features, ease of assembly, and overall portability.
To ensure our shortlist of chairs matched the diversity of the modern family’s needs, we reviewed thousands of testimonials from parents to find the best models in terms of comfort, ease of use, and design features.
Finally, we looked at cost-effectiveness by comparing price points against the value for money offered by each product. As a result, we were able to create this list of the best high chairs with something to offer every budget and need.
What are the Different Types of High Chairs?
It really isn’t until you get to be a parent that you realize just how many options for high chairs there are out there. From basic models to high-tech ones, all designed for your little bundle’s safety, comfort, and convenience – the choices can be overwhelming. But, all options can be boiled down to three categories: traditional, grow-with-me, and multipurpose.
● Traditional High Chairs
The most common and affordable high chairs are the traditional ones. These high chairs typically have a fixed height and seat and usually come with a soft seat pad and an easy-to-clean tray.
Designed more for use as an infant high chair, traditional high chairs are especially efficient for feeding time. With a spacious tray that surrounds the seat and an extra tray underneath the seat for storage of mealtime snacks, cleaning items, and toys, these chairs make sure that mealtime is stress-free.
Traditional chairs typically feature a basic design, usually metal or wood, and are lightweight – making them easy to move around the house. In addition, most of them are dishwasher safe, making it even easier to clean up after messy mealtimes.
● Grow-With-Me High Chairs
Grow-with-me chairs are an all-in-one solution that grows with your child – from infancy through toddlerhood and beyond. These chairs can be configured in multiple ways and feature adjustable height, footrests, seat cushions, and trays.
With features such as reclining or upright positions for infants, adjustable seat configurations, and a table-and-chair combo for preschoolers – these chairs are designed to last your little one well into the school years.
These chairs come in a variety of designs, ranging from minimalistic to ultra-modern, and are typically dishwasher safe for hassle-free cleaning.
● Multipurpose High Chairs
For parents with limited space or who travel often, multipurpose high chairs are the perfect solution. These chairs can be used as a high chair, toddler booster seat, and toddler chair – making them incredibly versatile.
Most multipurpose chairs are lightweight and feature adjustable features that allow you to customize the fit for your child. Many also come with a removable seat pad and dishwasher safe trays, making cleaning up a breeze.
In addition, most models are collapsible for easy storage and transport. So whether you’re hosting a playdate or visiting family, these chairs provide an easy way to ensure your little one is comfortable wherever they go.
What to Consider When Shopping for a High Chair
When shopping for the best high chair, remember the following tips to ensure your child is safe and comfortable.
● Child’s Age
Some high chair models are specifically designed for infants and newborns, with helpful features that allow reclining for easy feeding or high backs for toddler support and comfort.
Other chairs are designed to grow with your toddler from infancy through the preschool years, so you can keep them in one chair for a longer period of time.
So when shopping for the best high chair, consider the ages of your child and pick a chair that will best suit their needs for now and in the future. In some cases, parents get new chairs as their toddler grows, while others prefer to invest in a high chair that can be used for years.
● Safety Features
Safety should always be the top priority when shopping for the best high chair options. Look for features such as adjustable safety straps, non-toxic materials, and stable construction with no sharp edges or small parts.
Most high chairs meet safety standards, so be sure to look for the JPMA (Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association) seal of approval as an added assurance that your chair meets safety requirements.
Pro Tip: Choose a high chair manufacturer that offers replacement parts in case the safety features don’t hold up to the child’s use. That way, you can easily replace worn-out parts and maintain the high chair without buying a new one every few years.
● Ease of Cleaning
Mealtimes with kids means a big mess, so it’s important to choose a toddler chair that is easy to clean up after each use. Look for chairs with dishwasher safe trays and removable seat cushions/covers that can be thrown in the washing machine.
Most chairs are now made with materials that don’t absorb food particles or liquids, making them easier to wipe down and sanitize after each use. Additionally, some high chair models come with anti-microbial protection built into their fabric, preventing bacteria growth and making them easier to clean.
● Length of Time for Sitting
Make sure your baby or toddler chair is comfortable enough for your little one to sit in for extended periods. Whether it’s during mealtime or playtime, you want to ensure their comfort and support throughout the day.
Look for adjustable features such as reclining seats or adjustable footrests to ensure your toddler can sit comfortably in their high chair. Also, make sure the seat cushion is thick enough for toddler-sized bottoms and that the chair material isn’t too hard or too soft, as this can cause discomfort.
● Useful Accessories
Many high chairs have practical accessories to help make meals or playtime more enjoyable. Look for features such as snack trays, toy bars, and cup holders that can make your toddler’s experience in their high chair even better.
These accessories not only increase the fun factor but also keep messes to a minimum, ensuring you can spend more time with your bundle of joy rather than cleaning up.
Is a High Chair Necessary?
One of the most googled questions new parents ask is, “Do I really need a high chair?” Experts agree that the answer is a resounding yes.
High chairs provide a safe and secure place for your little one to enjoy meals or playtime. They also keep them at the same level as the rest of the family, so they can participate in activities even when seated. This allows for better developmental growth and socialization.
But it isn’t just easier feeding or supporting social development; these chairs also keep your little one safely away from potential hazards in the home. They help to keep your child secure and in one place, which is especially important when you have pets, other children, or sharp corners around the house.
Additionally, many parents find that the high chair is a better tool for them to be the best parent they can be, offering the convenience of a designated spot for their baby when they need to get things done with both hands.
The final and potentially most crucial benefit of a high chair is its flexibility in use. With the right features, a high chair can be used for years, growing with your child and adapting to their needs. The many high chair options on the market now include toddler play spaces, seats, and other features that make them more versatile for developing minds and bodies.
High Chair Maintenance Tips
Keeping a high chair in tip-top shape doesn’t need to be a daunting task. Here are some tips on how you can keep your high chair safe and clean for your child.
● Follow manufacturer instructions when assembling and disassembling the high chair
● Check all parts regularly for any wear or damage and replace them as soon as possible
● Make sure the chair’s straps are secure and adjusted correctly
● Wipe down the chair after each use to avoid the build-up of food particles or liquids
● Clean the dishwasher safe tray in between uses
● Have an extra set of replacement parts on hand in case of need
● Store the high chair properly when not in use
Additionally, it is important to ensure that other children who exceed the maximum weight and height limits of your high chair do not use it. Doing so can create an unsafe environment and put the child at risk.
When the high chair is in use, no matter its form, be sure that it is in an open space free from clutter or other items that could interfere with its stability. While a high chair is designed to be a safe seat for your child, it is only as secure as the environment in which it is used. Therefore, avoid putting it in high-traffic areas and always make sure that it is on a level surface.
Finally, before placing a child in the high chair, always double-check that locking mechanisms are in place and tightened securely – and never leave a child unattended while they are in the baby high chair.
What is the Difference Between a High Chair and a Booster Seat?
A high chair is designed for babies to toddlers, typically up to 6 years old. It usually has a five-point harness and a tray that compliments its height – which can vary from 20 to 40 inches.
These are all-inclusive devices meant to be used with a family’s kitchen table or countertop. Most high chairs have a lower weight capacity of about 50lbs, making them best suited to younger children.
On the other hand, a booster seat is typically used with an existing chair or dining room seat and is meant for older children who have outgrown a high chair but are still too small to fit comfortably at the dining table.
Booster seats can range in weight capacity from 50 to 90lbs, making them better suited to slightly older children who have outgrown the requirements of a high chair. In addition, boosters are usually lighter and more compact than high chairs, making them great for travel or dining out.
When considering whether you need a high chair or a booster seat, it is important to keep your child’s age and size in mind. For example, a high chair is necessary if your child still needs help sitting up, while a booster seat may be better suited for an older toddler who has outgrown their high chair but can’t yet fit in a standard-sized dining room chair.
Ultimately, the best way to determine which feeding device is suitable for your child is to take measurements, weigh the pros and cons, and make an informed decision based on your child’s needs. If you are having trouble deciding – or don’t want to splurge on two separate seating systems – consider purchasing a high chair that can be converted into a booster seat for further flexibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is a high chair good for a newborn baby?
Many high chair designs are suitable for newborn babies as young as 6 months. However, it is best to look for options specifically designed to keep your baby safe and secure while seated. Be sure to also check the weight and height limits of the high chair before making a purchase.
2. Is it safe to leave a child in a high chair unattended?
No, it is not recommended to leave your child unattended while in their high chair, regardless of age. The wriggling and movement common to most children can cause them to become unsafe and unstable in their high chair, so always supervise your child while seated.
3. How often should I clean my high chair?
The frequency at which you should clean your high chair will depend on how regularly it is used, but experts suggest wiping down the seat and tray with warm water and mild soap after each use. A more thorough cleaning can be done based on the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Is a high chair a good gift for new parents?
A high chair makes an excellent gift for new parents, as it is a practical item that can provide them with the convenience of having their baby nearby while preparing meals or completing daily tasks. Be sure to check with the new parents before purchasing a high chair – as they may already have one or prefer a different brand or model.
5. Can I take my high chair when I travel?
Various size restrictions on planes, trains, and buses may make it difficult to take your high chair when you travel. However, there are some portable and foldable high chairs available on the market that make it easier to travel with a high chair.
Make Life Easier With the Best High Chair
A high chair provides parents and children with a safe, comfortable place to eat, rest, or play. When choosing a high chair, consider factors such as size, weight capacity, portability, and ease of cleaning for an optimal dining experience.
Whether you’re looking for a traditional high chair or something more comprehensive, our list of the best high chairs will help you make an informed purchase that will provide long-lasting convenience for your family.
