You know those adorable photos of squishy-cheeked babies with mashed fruits and veggies spread all over their faces? There's always a high chair (and a glorious mess) involved in every single one.

When it's time to introduce solids, having a secure spot for your little food critic is key. But selecting the perfect high chair for your tot and family isn’t a one-size-fits-all affair. Many modern parents weigh factors like cost, size, longevity, safety, and—let’s be real—how easily it cleans up after the inevitable food flinging. We surveyed thousands of Babylist parents and tested countless high chairs ourselves to bring you the best of the best.

 

Babylist’s Top Picks for the Best High Chairs

• Best Convertible: Stokke Tripp Trapp High Chair
• Best More Modern Convertible: Bugaboo Giraffe Complete High Chair
• Best Modern: Skip Hop EON 4-in-1 Multi-Stage High Chair
• Another Modern Pick: Lalo High Chair
• Most Versatile: Graco Table2Table Premier Fold 7-in-1 Highchair
• Best Portable: Inglesina Fast Table High Chair
• Best for Small Spaces: Fisher-Price Space-Saver High Chair
• Best for Baby-Led Weaning: Stokke Nomi High Chair Bundle
• Best Foldable: Baby Jogger City Bistro Highchair
• Best Easy to Clean: Boon Grub Dishwasher Safe Adjustable Baby High Chair
• Best for Camping: Baby Delight Go With Me Venture Chair
• Best Rotating: Munchkin 360 Cloud Baby High Chair
• Best Affordable: IKEA Antilop
• Best for Travel: Bombol Pop-Up Booster

 

Best Convertible High Chair

Stokke Tripp Trapp High Chair (Buy on Amazon)

We won't beat around the bush—our hearts are completely smitten with this Scandinavian gem that’s been a hit since 1972 and shows no signs of slowing down.

The Stokke Tripp Trapp hits all the high notes: it’s chic, ergonomic, durable, safe, and built to last for the long haul. Dubbed the "chair for life," it’s designed to carry your little one from the baby stage all the way through to their big kid years and beyond, eventually transforming into a regular seat that holds up to 272 pounds. The minimalist beechwood design seamlessly blends with your home decor instead of shouting "baby gear." Plus, it’s ridiculously easy to clean. Unlike many high chairs, the Tripp Trapp is meant to be pulled right up to the table so everyone can dine together. (Psst, you can also buy a tray separately if you prefer.)

No sugar-coating here: the biggest downside to the Tripp Trapp is its price. The chair alone is quite an investment, and adding extras like the Baby Set, tray, or cushion can really start to add up. (If you’re aiming for a bundle, check out the Complete set; it includes the high chair, Baby Set, Cushion, and Tray.

Additional Information: 

• A classic since 1972
• Grows with your little one; converts to an adult chair that holds up to 242 pounds
• Pulls right up to dining table
• Expensive, especially with add-ons

Weight	15.4 lbs
Height	31.1”
Usage	Ages 6 months+ (it can hold up to a 242-pound adult!)
Height Adjustments	4 positions

 

Parent Review

"As a parent of three little ones and a veteran of countless highchairs over the last six years, I can wholeheartedly say I wish I'd discovered the Stokke TrippTrapp sooner. This highchair is just brilliant. From its meticulously crafted design and colorful aesthetics to its ergonomic genius and practical functionality for family mealtimes—it's truly a game-changer." - Amanda S.

 

Best Modern Convertible High Chair

Bugaboo Giraffe Complete High Chair (Buy on Amazon)

Just when we thought our love for the Stokke Tripp Trapp couldn't be topped, Bugaboo's Giraffe waltzed in with a modern and compact twist on one of our all-time favorite high chairs. This sleek and thoughtfully designed seat ticks every box on the checklist of parenthood must-haves. First off, setup is a breeze; we had it assembled in minutes using nothing but the handy little hex key wrench that comes included. Adjustments? Just as easy. With the simple press of a button, the seat and footrest glide up and down, ensuring your tiny diner is seated safely and ergonomically.

The highlights don’t stop there. Cleaning is a cinch (no annoying nooks or crannies), the chair boasts a rock-solid base, and the tray is both dishwasher-safe and effortlessly removable. One of our favorite features? The Giraffe snuggles right up to the table and evolves with your child. There’s a newborn set for the six-months-and-under crew and a baby set with a five-point harness for your toddler, usable until they hit three years old. After that, the Giraffe transforms into a regular chair that can support up to 220 pounds.

Now, if you’re wrestling with a wiggly toddler, be aware that the shoulder straps on the Giraffe can slide down if not perfectly centered and tightened. (We discovered that removing the strap cushions helped.) Another thing to note: the Giraffe isn’t foldable for storage, and it does come with a steep price tag, especially if you decide to add on nifty extras like the Newborn Set or the Junior Pillow.

Additional Information: 

• Easy to assemble and clean
• Adjustable seat and footrest, no tools needed
• Grows from baby through big kid and beyond

Weight	11 lbs
Height	30.1”
Usage	Newborn Set (sold separately): 0-6 mos, up to 20 lbs; Baby Set: 6-36 mos, up to 33 lbs; Giraffe Chair: up to 220 lbs
Height Adjustments	Seat, 5 positions; footrest, 9 positions

 

Parent Review

"Absolutely love this highchair! Assembly was a breeze—just 4 screws and I had it set up in under 5 minutes. Made of solid wood, it's both sturdy and hefty. The quality is top-notch! I’d say it’s on par with the Stokke Tripp Trapp but I appreciate its more streamlined, less bulky design. Another plus? You can attach a newborn insert and use it from day one. I even got the newborn rocker add-on for it." - Clair

 

 

Best Modern High Chair

Skip Hop EON 4-in-1 Multi-Stage High Chair (Buy on Amazon)

The Skip Hop Eon is a hit among Babylist parents, and it's easy to see why. If you're in the market for a sleek, multifunctional high chair that fits right into your contemporary lifestyle, the Eon is worth your consideration. This chair’s design isn’t just for show—it’s a breeze to clean thanks to its smooth, crevice-free surface. And that’s just the beginning.

The Eon isn’t just a high chair; it's a true multitasker. It grows with your child, transitioning from a high chair to a dining booster, a versatile tableside booster, and finally, a toddler chair. Talk about getting the most out of your investment!

Here are two more features that modern parents will love: an adjustable two-position footrest for safe, comfortable eating and a tray that’s not just easy to attach and remove but is also dishwasher-safe. Yes, you read that right—dishwasher-safe!

Now, a quick heads-up: like the popular Lalo and many other trendy high chairs, the Eon’s splayed-leg design means it does take up some floor space and can be easy to trip over. Plus, because of its shape and size, it’s best suited for babies who can sit up independently with great head and neck control.

Additional Information: 

• 4 ways to use
• Easy to clean
• Babylist-exclusive color
• Large footprint

Weight	17 lbs
Height	36”
Usage	High chair: 6 mos-3 yrs (up to 33 lbs); Booster: 6 mos+ (with harness); Big kid chair: supports up to 80 lbs
Height Adjustments	None

 

Parent Review

"Pros: Super simple to set up; we managed it without any instructions. Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the removable tray cover. We love that it will adapt as our baby grows. Maybe a Con: It doesn’t come with cushions and they aren’t available separately, but this actually makes cleaning up after feeding much easier. No complaints!" - Nick H.

 

Modern - Versatile Pick

Lalo High Chair (Buy on Amazon)

The Lalo high chair really stands out in a sea of options, and that’s one of the things we absolutely adore. With a sleek, modern design that complements any home decor, it effortlessly blends in rather than sticking out like a sore thumb. The smooth surface, including the generously sized tray, is a breeze to wipe clean, and you’ll have it assembled in just a few minutes—no sweat! Plus, the two-position footrest is a lifesaver; we always appreciate supportive features in a high chair.

But wait, there’s more! The Lalo’s versatility is another major win. You can snag the Play Legs (sold separately) to transform the high chair into a toddler chair that fits perfectly with Lalo’s Play Table or most other play tables. Want even more bang for your buck? Grab the Booster Conversion Kit to turn your Lalo into a booster seat suitable for little ones from four months to three years old.

Now, let’s talk about the not-so-great bits. The Lalo isn’t the best for supporting younger infants, even with the cushion added. (And speaking of that cushion, some parents aren’t thrilled about how food tends to get stuck underneath it post-mealtime.) Also, the high chair’s wide-leg design does mean a larger footprint, so watch your step to avoid any accidental trips.

Another modern high chair to consider: the Maxi-Cosi Moa 8-in-1. This gem boasts eight different modes (infant chair, toddler chair, stool, booster, and more), a three-level adjustable footrest, a water-repellent and machine-washable cushion, tool-free setup, and a super chic design.

Additional Information: 

• Modern, minimalist and fun design that’s easy to clean
• Converts to a booster and a toddler chair
• Not much support for younger babies

Weight	10 lbs
Height	33”
Usage	4+ mos or when baby can sit up unassisted up to 3 years old; play chair holds up to 200 lbs
Height Adjustments	2 positions, one in high chair mode and one for play chair

 

Parent Review:

“This sleek, stylish chair blends right in with our home decor, unlike so many other baby gear eyesores. Plus, I’m thrilled that it will grow with my little one, transforming into the perfect toddler chair later on!” -Taylor

 

Most Versatile High Chair

Graco Table2Table Premier Fold 7-in-1 Highchair (Buy on Amazon)

Meet the ultimate multitasker for modern parents: the Graco Table2Table. This gem grows with your child, transforming through the stages from infant to young kiddo with ease. Whether you need a classic high chair, an infant booster, a toddler booster, a youth chair, or a toddler-sized table and chair set, Table2Table has got you covered.

Thoughtfully designed, it features a convertible three- and five-point harness, a reclining seat, adjustable height and footrest options, and a one-handed tray removal for those days when you need an extra hand. Plus, you can use it for two kids at the same time! The booster seat can keep your older sibling comfy while the high chair entertains the little one.

While the Table2Table is fabulous in its multifunctionality, it does take up some space when open. It folds compactly for storage, but if space is tight, you might want to consider the Slim Snacker—a super popular, lower profile seat from Graco that folds with just one hand.

Cleaning? The seat pad wipes down and is machine washable, but some parents have reported that those tiny nooks and crannies can be a bit challenging. And of course, the gap between the tray and baby can become a breadcrumb Bermuda Triangle.

If you love the versatility of the Table2Table but crave a sleeker design and don’t mind spending a bit more, check out the Maxi-Cosi Minla 6-in-1 Adjustable High Chair. With its modern look featuring neutral tones, it offers five recline positions, four tray positions, eight height settings, and can convert from an infant seat to a tableside booster seat for years of use.

Additional Information: 

• 7 growing stages
• Grows with baby and can be used for two children at once
• Lots of height, recline positions and footrest adjustments
• Large footprint, tough to clean

Weight	25.2 lbs
Height	44”
Usage	From newborn up to 60 lbs
Height Adjustments	5 positions

 

Parent Review:

"Fantastic high chair! Got it for our home for when the little ones come over. I did my homework and compared a bunch of high chairs. This one was a breeze to assemble, a snap to clean, and has awesome features and portability. I absolutely love that it folds up for easy storage and can accommodate more than one child at a time with its toddler booster and infant recliner. Highly recommend!" - Ellen

 

Best Portable High Chair

Inglesina Fast Table High Chair (Buy on Amazon)

If you're constantly on the move, enjoy dining out, or are simply tight on space, the Inglesina Fast Table Chair could be your new best friend. Weighing just 4.2 pounds, this parent-approved gem easily clamps onto most tables and countertops. Its compact size doesn't skimp on comfort, featuring a high backrest and a padded seat for your little one. Use it at home, in restaurants, on vacation, or anywhere your child needs to eat the carefully prepared meal you've sliced into tiny, perfect pieces—albeit likely to be thrown on the floor.

A quick heads-up: this chair lacks a footrest, so it's not ideal as your child’s go-to high chair for everyday use. Also, keep an eye on the weight limit—it supports up to 37 pounds, which is pretty impressive but not as high as most full-sized high chairs.

Additional Information: 

• Hooks directly to most counters or tables
• 4.2 pounds
• Removable, washable cover
• Works for babies 6+ months and up to 37 pounds

Weight	4.2 lbs
Height	11”
Usage	For babies 6 months and up until 37 lbs
Height Adjustments	None

 

Parent Review:

“Every modern parent needs this chair on their registry! It's a breeze to wash and super travel-friendly—an absolute lifesaver!” - Necy

 

Best High Chair for Small Spaces

Fisher-Price Space-Saver High Chair (Buy on Amazon)

If you're tight on space but still need a reliable high chair, this compact chair that attaches to most dining chairs is an excellent, budget-friendly option. It boasts many of the features you’d find in a full-size version, including a three-position recline for younger babies and two height adjustments. The tray is easy to remove with one hand and has a deep dish to help keep food from flying off. Plus, it grows with your child, converting into a booster seat to last through the toddler years.

The main gripe with this seat is keeping it clean. While the seat fabric is machine washable, removing it for frequent washing is less than ideal due to all the straps you need to undo. And trust us, you’ll need to wash it often since the material isn’t the easiest to wipe down. Another common issue is the seat’s angle; some parents feel that despite the recline options, the pitch just isn’t quite right, leaving their little ones less than comfy.

Additional Information: 

• Affordable
• Compact and attaches to most dining chairs
• Converts to a booster
• Hard to clean

Weight	7.6 lbs
Height	21.65”
Usage	4-24 mos, up to 50 lbs
Height Adjustments	2 positions

 

Parent Review:

“Best thing ever! We use this high chair multiple times a day, every day. She loves her chair so much!” -Hope

 

Best High Chair for Baby Led Weaning

Stokke Nomi High Chair Bundle (Buy on Amazon)

If you’re planning on doing baby-led weaning (think no purées or spoon-feeding, just straight-up self-feeding and finger foods), you’ll want to pay extra attention to the ergonomics of the high chair you pick and how your baby sits while munching away. Enter the Nomi! Designed by the same genius behind the Stokke Tripp Trapp back in 1972, this high chair is purpose-built for safe and stable baby-led weaning adventures. It boasts a solid base, an adjustable footrest, and slides right up to your dining table.

Other wins? It’s incredibly easy to clean (because who has time for food traps?) and it morphs into a regular seat that can hold up to 330 pounds. This bundle even includes the Baby Set, so you’re good to go from the moment your mini-me turns six months old.

The downside? The Nomi does come with a hefty price tag, especially if you’re tempted to splurge on add-ons like the tray or cushion (sold separately).

Additional Information: 

• Ergonomically designed
• Adjustable seat and footrest
• Easy to clean

Weight	10.8 lbs
Height	32.8”
Usage	6 mos to 330 lbs
Height Adjustments	Seat height from 20.4-22.8”

 

Parent Review:

"Choosing between the Nomi high chair and the Stokke Tripp Trapp was no small debate. But boy, am I thrilled with my decision to go with the Nomi! There's just so much to love—first off, adjusting the seat and footrest height is a total breeze. Cleaning it? A piece of cake! Plus, it's super lightweight and even more convenient, it can hang right on the table while I’m on floor-cleaning duty. Parenting win!" - Bekah

 

Best Foldable High Chair

Baby Jogger City Bistro Highchair (Buy on Amazon)

Many parents dream of a full-size high chair but lack the kitchen or dining space to keep one around all the time. Enter the City Bistro! This nifty high chair folds down to 80% of its full size, making it incredibly compact and super easy to stash next to a counter or even in a closet.

Aside from its impressive folding capabilities, which are definitely the star of the show, there are plenty of other features to adore about the City Bistro. The seat boasts a seriously comfy pad that's both stain-resistant and machine washable. It comes with calf support, a dishwasher-safe tray, and a secure five-point harness. Two other standout features we love are the tray storage on the back—where the tray clips neatly when folded, keeping everything organized—and the fact that the chair stands independently when folded.

While this high chair scores high for its compact folded footprint, it does take up a bit more space when in use; we often found ourselves tripping over the back legs. Also, while the removable seat pad is a huge plus, food crumbs can sometimes get trapped underneath it, making cleanup a tad annoying.

For those in search of other foldable options, the Joovy Nook NB High Chair and Graco’s Slim Snacker are great picks. Just a heads up: the Slim Snacker’s cushion, although technically removable, has quite a reputation among parents for being a challenge to detach, which can make keeping it clean a bit more of a hassle.

Additional Information: 

• Most compact folding high chair on market
• Stands when folded
• 4 height positions
• Fairly large footprint when unfolded

Parent Review:

"Absolutely in love with the blend of full-size high chair convenience and ultra-compact foldable design. Takes up almost no space when stashed away. Plus, it's super durable and a breeze to clean." - Jeny

 

Best Easy to Clean High Chair

Boon Grub Dishwasher Safe Adjustable Baby High Chair (Buy on Amazon)

Ever dream of just throwing your entire high chair into the dishwasher? (You will, after only a few weeks of introducing your baby to solids—trust us.) Say hello to the Boon Grub. Both the tray and the seat are totally dishwasher safe, and we couldn’t be more thrilled!

What else makes us swoon? The adjustable tray, the five-position footrest, and the fact that you can use this high chair at both table- and counter-height. This is a gem you won’t find in most other seats. Plus, the Grub morphs from a high chair to a toddler seat, accommodating your munchkin until they hit 50 pounds.

Heads up, though: this high chair features wide, splayed-out legs, so it takes up a bit of room. Also, you’ll need both hands to remove the tray—a point that’s not exactly a hit with parents.

Additional Information: 

• Tray and seat are dishwasher safe
• Adjustable seat and footrest
• Converts to a toddler seat

Weight	14.5 lbs
Height	30.25-36.25”
Usage	6 mos to 6 years; up to 50 lbs
Height Adjustments	3 positions: counter, table and toddler chair height

 

Parent Review:

"Absolutely adore this high chair! As a city dweller, my only dining choice is a bar height table, which made finding the perfect high chair a bit of a challenge. Couldn't believe there were NO suitable options for my registry back then. Enter the Boon Grub high chair, which launched just in time for my little one’s first bites of real food. Talk about perfect timing! Plus, cleanup is a breeze." - Skye

 

 

 

Best Baby Camping Chair

Baby Delight Go With Me Venture Chair (Buy on Amazon)

If your family thrives on camping trips or simply loves a good outdoor adventure, investing in an outdoor high chair can be a game-changer. Enter the Baby Delight’s Go With Me Venture Chair—a top contender in our books. This chair is a three-in-one wonder, growing with your little explorer from around three months old up to an impressive 75 pounds. Its wide, stable base ensures it stays put, even on grass and dirt, and it comes with a detachable canopy for those sunny days. Plus, when it’s time to pack up, it folds down effortlessly into its carry bag.

The chair's polyester fabric is resistant to fading, stains, and mold, though it's wipe-clean only. If machine-washable convenience is more your style, consider the hiccapop OmniBoost Travel Booster Seat. While it might not accompany your child as long as the Venture Chair and lacks a canopy, this seat shines with its portability and easy-to-clean, removable fabric. It’s another fantastic option for outdoor dining with your mini-adventurer.

Additional Information: 

• Outdoor or indoor use
• Grows with baby through three stages
• Folds flat, easy to pack and carry

Weight	4.9 lbs
Height	24.5”
Usage	Approx. 3 mos up to 75 lbs
Height Adjustments	Converts to three stages: sitting, standing and big kid

 

Parent Review:

"Our three kids have all enjoyed this chair, and they’re 8, 5, and 1. We mainly use it for our 1-year-old, and it’s been a lifesaver during mealtimes and around the campfire. The straps are essential for keeping her safe by the fire. Cleanup is a breeze with the easy-wipe material. The sunshade offers complete protection, and it’s so simple to fold and portable to move around. Our older kids have also taken a turn in it, and they fit comfortably—even our tall 8-year-old! We’re thrilled with this chair and highly recommend it." - Tom

 

Best Rotating High Chair

Munchkin 360 Cloud Baby High Chair (Buy on Amazon)

Starting solids with your baby is all about introducing them to a variety of foods while also sharing the joys of mealtime together. Enter the Munchkin 360 high chair—the ultimate mealtime sidekick for modern parents! Its unique swivel seat makes it super easy to interact with your little one during meals.

What sets the 360 apart? Its sleek, modern design. The seat is completely clear, which not only looks super chic but is also a breeze to clean. (If you prefer, there's a removable cushion you can add for extra comfort.)

The transparent seat is a hit with many parents, but keep in mind it will reveal every tiny handprint, smudge, and leftover splat. The 360’s wide base offers stability, though it does take up a bit more space. Note that the seat and footrest are not adjustable.

Additional Information: 

• Unique swiveling seat design
• Clean, modern aesthetic
• Easy to wipe clean

Weight	16 lbs
Height	40”
Usage	6 mos to 3 years, up to 33 lbs
Height Adjustments	None

 

 

Best Affordable High Chair

The IKEA High Chair is a minimalist's dream come true, delivering robust functionality for just under $30. This no-nonsense seat is sturdy, compact, and a cinch to clean thanks to its molded plastic surface. Plus, it's lightweight and a breeze to move from room to room. Many families keep a spare at grandma's place—it's that budget-friendly and easy to stash away.

However, let's spill some tea on the cons: there's no footrest and the tray can be a bit of a wrestling match to remove, so most parents just leave it on. And nope, it doesn’t fold for storage. (But hey, the legs do pop off pretty easily.) The safety buckle only clips at the waist, which may lack the support younger infants need compared to a five-point harness. For added comfort, grab IKEA’s support cushion and cover or explore options from Yeah Baby Goods for cushions and a footrest. 

If you're willing to stretch your budget just a tad, Evenflo’s 4-in-1 Eat & Grow Convertible High Chair might be your new best friend. It's another crowd-pleaser among Babylist parents, and for good reason! This high chair doesn’t just stop at being a high chair; it evolves with your kiddo. It effortlessly transitions from an infant high chair to toddler dining, to a stand-alone toddler chair, and finally into a big kid table and chair. Talk about multitasking!

On top of this fantastic versatility, it comes with a cushy seat pad and a five-point harness for that extra layer of safety. Yes, all those perks do come at a slightly higher price, but think of it as a long-term investment in your child’s meal-time comfort and safety.

Additional Information: 

• Ultra affordable
• Easy to clean
• No footrest
• Not supportive for younger infants

Weight	7.9 lbs
Height	35 3/8”
Usage	When baby can sit up unassisted (around 5-6 months) until toddler age
Height adjustments:	None

 

Parent Review

"For today’s busy parents, our IKEA high chair is chic, a breeze to clean, and wallet-friendly. Seriously." - Katy

 

Best Travel High Chair

Nope, the Bombol isn’t just a piece of trendy origami art—it’s an equally cool travel high chair! This 3D seat might just be the future of dining out and traveling with your baby. Weighing in at a featherlight two and a half pounds, it’s a breeze to carry around. It supports kids up to 75 pounds, and the seat’s fabric is resistant to stains, abrasions, and odors. The best part? It folds flat to about the size of a large book. You can easily slip it into a diaper bag or tote and hit the road. When it’s chow time, simply pop it open, lock it in place, secure it to your chair, and you’re all set. (And yes, it’s incredibly sturdy. We tested it out!)

While it’s approved for babies six months and older, we found it works best once your little one is a bit bigger and more stable. Admittedly, it’s also on the pricey side for a booster.

Additional Information: 

• Folds flat and weighs 2.5 lbs
• Holds up to 75 lbs
• Fits almost all adult chairs

Weight	2.5 lbs
Height	Folded: 11.8” x 10.8” x 1.4”; Unfolded: 11.8” x 11” x 10.6”
Usage	6+ mos up to 75 lbs
Height Adjustments	None

 

High Chairs We're Loving Right Now…

The high chair game is leveling up with exciting new designs and features popping up everywhere. Here are a few that have caught our attention.

• Meet the Cybex LEMO 2 High Chair 3-in-1 Set ($349.95), your new BFF from baby days to adulthood. It's versatile, sleek, ergonomic, and super stylish. Plus, it comes in trendy colors and has easy-to-clean finishes. What's not to love?
• Just like those nifty rotating car seats, high chairs with a swiveling seat are gaining traction. Enter the TruBliss 2-in-1 Turn-A-Tot High Chair ($159.99). It's budget-friendly and offers a 360-degree rotating seat, perfect for getting that feeding angle just right. Clean-up is a breeze too, which is always a win in our book.
• Need a high chair that folds up? Check out the Munchkin Float Easy Clean Foldable High Chair ($169.00). With a button-touch collapse feature, this compact chair is a snap to store away. No nooks or crannies make cleaning super easy (yay), and it boasts tool-free assembly and an adjustable footrest.

 

How We Selected the Top High Chairs

We dove into the results from Babylist’s Best Baby Products survey, tapping into the wisdom of 6,000 Babylist users who shared their favorite baby products and why they love them.

To add an extra layer of expertise, we consulted the Babylist editorial team. Gear Editor Jen LaBracio, who has been a baby gear guru for over six years and is also a mom of two, lent her seasoned insight. Jen has crafted hundreds of baby product guides and has personally tested and researched high chairs galore.

Last but definitely not least, we sifted through customer reviews from hundreds of actual Babylist parents to get the real scoop.

 

Types of High Chairs

When it comes to picking a high chair that's just right for your little munchkin, you’ll find that they generally fall into a few main categories:

• Full-Size High Chairs: Picture a classic high chair—the one you probably had as a kid. Full-size high chairs can be made from wood or plastic, often taking up a decent amount of space. They come with a variety of features you might love: wheels, adjustable seats, footrests, recline options, safety straps, or even a foldable design for easy storage. Some of these, known as convertible high chairs, can even transform into booster seats or adult chairs to grow with your child.
• Portable High Chairs: Also known as travel high chairs or clip-on chairs, these are made for parents who are always on the move. (But hey, they work just fine at home, too!) Portable high chairs are lighter and more compact than their full-size relatives. They often feature clips to attach to a table or counter, or pop-out legs for easy setup and breakdown.
• Booster Seats: Perfect for older toddlers and children, booster seats give just the right amount of extra height at the table. They strap onto a regular chair and sometimes include removable trays for added convenience.

 

Time for the High Chair Adventure!

Wondering when your little munchkin can join you at the dinner table in their own high chair? According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, there are a few milestones your baby should hit before making this exciting transition.

 

Signs Your Baby Is High Chair Ready:

• Head Strong: Baby can hold their head up and sit in a high chair with good head control.
• Open Wide: Your little one opens their mouth for food.
• Master of the Spoon: They can move food from a spoon into their throat.
• Double Trouble: Baby has doubled their birth weight.

While every baby charts their own course, most are set for solids between four and six months of age. So, go ahead and get that high chair purchased, assembled, and ready for some delicious messes!

 

High Chair Positioning Tips:

• Remember “90/90/90” Rule:

- ☑️ 90-degree bend at the hips

- ☑️ 90-degree bend at the knees

- ☑️ 90-degree bend at the ankles

• Ensure the high chair has a footrest. This position is both safe and comfy for your baby.

• Support System:

- If your baby is leaning, a rolled-up towel or swaddle blanket behind their back or on either side can provide a snug fit.

• Upright and Ready:

- Always feed your baby in the most upright position the high chair offers. No leaning back for meal times!

 

How to Pick the Best High Chair

Before you dive into the world of high chairs, take a moment to think about your lifestyle, space, and budget. Here’s the scoop on what to consider:

• Space. Got a cozy apartment with a tiny dining table? A booster seat that straps onto your existing chair or one that clips to the counter might be your best match. Bigger space with multiple eating areas? A standalone high chair with its own tray that you can easily move around could be ideal.
• Lifestyle. Always on the move? You might want to add a portable high chair to your baby registry, alongside a homebound one. Being ready for anything never goes out of style!
• Cleaning. Let's talk mess. If scrubbing high chair nooks isn’t your thing, look for a model with wipeable fabric or a sleek plastic design. But if you’re cool with a little extra cleaning for the sake of a chic aesthetic, go ahead and choose your fave look.
•  Foldability. Tight on space? Think about a full-size chair that folds up for easy storage or a portable high chair that tucks away when not in use. Compact living, sorted!
• Durability and Longevity. Planning to grow your family? Investing in a durable wooden seat might be worth the extra bucks. And for long-term use, check out high chairs that convert into booster seats or even adult chairs. Don't forget to pay attention to those weight limits!
• Safety. Last but definitely not least, safety first. Look for high chairs with a solid restraint system (three- or five-point harness), stable base (locking wheels if it rolls), a footrest for comfy eating, a crotch post, and no pinch points. Keep those tiny fingers and toes safe and sound—yours too!

 

FAQs

Are high chairs worth it?

Absolutely! High chairs are a game-changer for modern parents looking for a safe and convenient way to feed their little ones. They provide a dedicated spot for mealtime chaos, and many options grow as your tot does. But let's be real—the real question is, “Is this the right high chair for our family and lifestyle?” High chairs can be pricey and might hog some space, so make sure you're picking something that fits your actual needs.

 

How to clean high chairs?

Cleaning a high chair can feel like battling a food tsunami, but fear not! Always peek at your high chair’s manual first for the nitty-gritty. Generally, start by ditching any leftover crumbs or food. Grab a damp cloth with some mild soap and give the chair a good wipe, focusing on those stubborn spots. Follow up with a clean, damp cloth to rinse and let it air dry. Got a removable tray? Toss it in warm soapy water or the dishwasher (if it’s safe to do so). Got machine-washable cushions? Follow the manufacturer’s laundry directions and clean as needed.

 

When to stop using a high chair?

The high chair doesn't have to be a short-lived romance. Many parents stick with one until their child is two or three years old, or even longer. Some convertible high chairs can hold the weight of an adult, meaning you could technically keep it around forever—though your teenager might have opinions on that.

 

Do high chairs have weight limits?

Yes, indeed! Just like any good piece of baby gear, high chairs come with weight limits. These range from around 30 pounds up to over 200 pounds depending on the model. Always check your specific high chair's guidelines to be sure.

 

Do high chairs expire?

Yup, high chairs can expire! Wear and tear, safety concerns, and updates in industry standards can all make a high chair obsolete over time. Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations and any expiration dates before using a high chair. Safety first, folks!