Joybuy Insights

Growing High Chair: What Parents Should Really Look Out For When Buying

A growing high chair should offer more than a temporary seat for those first spoonfuls of purée. It should adapt to your child’s height and the height of the table, stand securely, be easy to clean and remain useful for as long as possible. For families shopping on a budget in particular, it is worth taking a close look at the technical specifications: a low purchase price can lead to additional costs elsewhere if accessories, replacement parts or a new chair are needed later on.

Common High Chair Buying Mistakes

1. “Growing” does not automatically mean it can be used into adulthood

Many models can be converted into several configurations, but are only approved for children weighing around 15 or 25 kg. This may be sufficient during the toddler years, but it does not make the product a high chair for use into adulthood. The key factors are the maximum load and the intended use for each configuration.

2. A wide range of accessories is not always included

A high chair with a removable dining table can be practical if your child is initially going to eat independently of the family table. However, with some wooden models, the tabletop, seat insert or cushions are available separately. Before buying, check exactly which components are included and whether compatible accessories will remain available in the long term.

3. A safety harness cannot replace a stable construction

A high chair with a safety harness provides an additional restraint option, but it cannot prevent every risk of tipping or falling. The chair must stand on a level surface, be assembled correctly and checked regularly. Children should never be left unattended in a high chair and should not be able to push themselves away from the edge of the table.

The Key Buying Criteria

Safety standard and restraint system

Look for a clear reference to EN 14988. This European standard covers safety requirements and test methods for children’s high chairs. However, the standard does not replace daily checks by an adult.

For babies from around six months, the baby high chair from 6 months is only suitable if the child can sit upright independently and the manufacturer expressly states that it is suitable. Use the harness for as long as recommended in the instructions. Depending on the model, this may be a 3-point or 5-point harness system, a crotch strap or an additional front bar.

Adjustability of the seat and footrest

A height-adjustable high chair should offer more than just a height-adjustable seat. The footrest and, where applicable, the seat depth are also important. Ideally, your child’s feet should rest on the footrest while their back and pelvis are adequately supported. This makes it possible to create a more suitable sitting position for different stages of development.

Before buying, compare:

  • Number of seat and footrest positions
  • Adjustment to the height of the dining table
  • Whether the seat or footrest can be removed
  • Permitted weight for each usage stage
  • Dimensions and space required in the kitchen

An ergonomic children’s high chair cannot therefore be identified by its name alone. What matters are the specific adjustment options and whether the chair is suitable for the child’s age and intended use.

Materials, cleaning and everyday effort

A wooden high chair made from bamboo or beechwood can remain in use for a long time if properly cared for. Check whether the surface is varnished, wipe-clean and free from hard-to-reach grooves. Plastic trays and removable covers make cleaning easier, while fabric covers should ideally be removable and machine washable.

“Sustainable” is not a single, legally protected product characteristic. More meaningful details include FSC-certified wood, the material composition, the expected service life and whether individual components can be replaced. A sustainable high chair is therefore a combination of clearly stated materials, long-term usability and easy maintenance.

Our Selection for Different Family Profiles

Suitable for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers
roba Sit Up Flex Baby High Chair

roba Sit Up Flex Baby High Chair – White

Why this product suits this profile: This wooden high chair features height-adjustable and removable seat and foot boards, with a stated load capacity of up to 70 kg. Accessories such as the dining table and seat insert are available separately.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Its long usable life reduces the need for several different seats. According to the product details, the removable harness can be taken off later.

Main benefit & strengths

Adjustable boards, a low product weight of 5,18 kg and a stated load capacity of 70 kg.

Suitable for: Buyers with high quality expectations
hauck High Chair Alpha Plus White

hauck High Chair Alpha Plus – White

Why this product suits this profile: According to the supplier, the chair is made from European FSC-certified beechwood and offers five seat heights and three footrest positions.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The clearly specified adjustment levels make its adaptability easy to assess. A 5-point harness is listed as included; the matching tabletop is available separately.

Main benefit & strengths

FSC-certified beechwood, a maximum load of 90 kg according to the product details and an adjustable seating position.

Suitable for: Special uses & frequent users
cybex CLICK&FOLD 3in1 High Chair Set

cybex CLICK&FOLD 3in1 High Chair Set

Why this product suits this profile: This foldable high chair is ideal for households with limited storage space. The manufacturer specifies a folding design as well as adjustable seat and footrest elements.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The folded dimensions of 27 × 47,3 × 91,5 cm make it easier to plan your storage space. Before use, the frame must be fully unfolded and locked into position.

Main benefit & strengths

FSC-certified beechwood, tool-free adjustment and a stated load capacity of up to 120 kg in standalone chair mode.

Suitable for: Families with flexible space requirements
roba Nature Up Baby High Chair Bamboo

roba Nature Up Baby High Chair in Bamboo

Why this product suits this profile: This growing high chair is an appealing choice for families who prefer a removable tabletop and wipe-clean surfaces. The stated load limit is 70 kg.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details specify the EN 14988 safety standard, a 3-point harness and a removable dining tray. These details should be checked against the instructions before buying.

Main benefit & strengths

Bamboo side panels, removable dining tray, wipe-clean surfaces and use from around six months through to adulthood according to the supplier.

Looking for more options?

We have put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the safety regulations applicable in the EU.

How to Assemble and Use a High Chair Correctly

Follow the enclosed instructions during assembly and tighten all screws, locks and harnesses as specified. A quick visual check is recommended before every use:

  • Is the chair standing on a level, stable surface?
  • Are the seat and footrest correctly locked into place?
  • Is the harness undamaged and adjusted correctly?
  • Is the dining tray securely fitted, if it is being used?
  • Are there any cracks, loose parts or sharp edges?

With a high chair with a removable dining table, the tray must not be used as a handle or standing surface. Even a sturdy wooden chair is not a climbing frame. Clean varnished surfaces with a damp cloth and avoid abrasive cleaning products or prolonged soaking.

FAQ About Growing High Chairs

When is a growing high chair suitable?

Many models are intended for use from around six months. However, the crucial factor is that the child can sit upright independently. The child’s age and weight must match the specific model’s instructions.

How long can a growing high chair be used?

This depends on the design and load limit. According to the product details, models such as the Kikka Boo Woody are designed for use up to around six years of age, while certain wooden chairs with a load capacity of 70 or 90 kg, or more, can be used into adulthood. The maximum load always applies to the relevant configuration.

Are growing high chairs worth the price?

The best way to assess this is by considering the planned period of use and what is included. A higher price may pay off if the chair covers several age stages, uses durable materials and does not need to be completely replaced after just a few years. Additional costs for a tray, cushions or seat insert should be included in the total price.