Growing high chair: what parents should really look for when buying

A growing high chair needs to do more than provide a place for your baby to sit during their first meals. It should fit at your dining table, stand securely, adjust to your child’s size and ideally last for several years. However, some common claims can lead to poor choices. A high maximum weight limit doesn’t automatically mean a chair is suitable for every age group. And lots of adjustment options are only useful if they’re easy and safe to use.

This buying guide explains which details matter when choosing a high chair and which models may suit different family lifestyles.

Common pitfalls when buying a growing high chair

1. A high maximum weight limit is mistaken for a long usable life

A high chair with a weight limit of 70 or 90 kg may, in principle, be suitable for long-term use. What matters, though, is what type of use and age group the limit applies to. A baby high chair with a safety harness isn’t automatically suitable for an older child if the seat, footrest or access no longer fits them.

So check the separate details for:

• Minimum age or ability to sit independently
• Maximum age or stage for use as a high chair
• Maximum weight in the child or junior chair position
• Whether it can be used at the dining table without the tray

2. Lots of features don’t make up for an unstable design

A 6-in-1 high chair sounds versatile, but it can become impractical if you need to change its configuration often. Check that each set-up is clearly described and that the safety harness, tray and footrest can be fitted correctly in every intended position.

The base is also important when choosing an adjustable high chair. A lightweight model is easier to move, but may be more sensitive to being pushed from the side. Look for non-slip feet, a sturdy frame and a tray that can be handled safely.

3. Care instructions are overlooked

Food can quickly get on the seat, harness and footrest. Clean a wooden high chair with a damp cloth, then dry it. Fabric covers are more practical if they’re removable and machine washable. Painted MDF surfaces, plastic trays and faux leather each have their own care requirements.

What to check before you buy

Safety standard and restraint system

The EN 14988:2017+A1:2020 standard is an important reference for high chairs. It covers requirements including stability, construction and restraint systems. However, compliance with a standard doesn’t replace using the chair correctly.

A suitable high chair with a safety harness is important for children who can’t yet sit securely or who tend to lean forwards. Depending on the product, it may have a 3-point or 5-point harness. Make sure the harness is adjusted correctly, and remember that it doesn’t replace adult supervision.

Also remember to:

• Never leave your child unattended in the high chair.
• Use the chair only on a flat, stable surface.
• Don’t let your child stand on the tray or pull themselves up using it.
• Check the screws, harness, fastenings and anti-slip parts regularly.
• Only use a high chair from 6 months if your child can sit upright independently and the manufacturer says it’s suitable.

Seat height, footrest and adjustability

An adjustable seat helps you set the right height for your dining table. A adjustable footrest is even more important: your child’s feet should rest on it wherever possible, rather than dangling freely for long periods. Check how many positions it offers and whether you can adjust it without having to use complicated tools.

According to the product details, the Hauck Alpha Plus has five seat heights and three footrest positions. The Hauck Arketa is listed as having 13 positions for the seat and footrest. These figures are useful to compare, but you should also take your table height, the seat dimensions and your child’s size into account.

Material, cleaning and space requirements

A wooden high chair can last a long time with careful maintenance. FSC-certified wood or bamboo indicates the stated origin or material, but doesn’t by itself guarantee a particular lifespan.

For smaller homes, a folding high chair may be a better choice than a heavy stair-style high chair. Check its folded dimensions, weight and locking mechanism. If you’ll be carrying it around often, a carry handle and easy-to-clean areas are also useful.

Our picks for different family needs

Ideal for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers

Kikka Boo High Chair 6-in-1 Woody Beige

Why this product suits this profile: This model offers six different configurations, a removable double tray and a footrest. According to the product details, it can be used as a high chair up to 15 kg and as a junior chair up to 25 kg.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The age and weight limits are listed separately for use as a high chair and a junior chair, making it easier to judge how long the chair can really be used.

Key benefits & strengths

5-point harness, removable double tray, non-slip feet and an easy-clean cover.

Ideal for: Buyers who expect high quality

hauck High Chair Alpha Plus – White

Why this product suits this profile: This stair-style high chair is made from European beech wood and designed for long-term use. The seat and footrest can be adjusted, and the stated maximum weight capacity is 90 kg.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The seat and footrest positions are clearly specified. This helps reduce the risk of choosing a model based solely on its high weight limit.

Key benefits & strengths

FSC-certified beech wood according to the product details, 5-point harness, five seat heights and three footrest positions.

Ideal for: Specific needs & frequent use

hauck Arketa High Chair Set with Activity Tray – Beech

Why this product suits this profile: This model is designed for families who want to use their high chair regularly at the dining table and with an additional activity tray. According to the product details, the seat and footrest can be adjusted to 13 positions.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Its adjustability is described with a specific number of positions. A 5-point harness and safety bar are also included.

Key benefits & strengths

FSC-certified beech wood according to the product details, activity tray and stated weight capacity of up to 130 kg.

Ideal for: Small homes and families on the go

Chicco Crescendo Lite High Chair Milan Mist

Why this product suits this profile: This high chair can be used as a child’s chair and an adult chair, and folds away to save space. It’s handy if you want to put the seat away after meals.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description lists each stage of use separately: high chair up to 36 months, child’s chair up to 40 kg and adult chair up to 110 kg.

Key benefits & strengths

Three configurations, adjustable footrest and a folding design for homes with limited storage space.

Frequently asked questions about growing high chairs

When is a high chair suitable from 6 months?

The age recommendation alone isn’t enough. Your child should be able to sit upright independently and steadily. The harness, seat and footrest must also be adjusted correctly. Always follow the safety instructions provided by the manufacturer.

How long can you use a growing high chair?

It depends on the model and its configuration. Some models are designed for use as a child’s high chair until around three years old, then can be used as a junior chair. For stair-style high chairs, manufacturers may state that they can be used into the teenage years or up to a specific weight limit. Always check the age, weight and type of use separately.

Is a folding high chair or a wooden model a better choice?

A folding high chair is a good option for small homes, visits and frequent travel. A wooden model often offers more adjustment options for longer-term use, but takes up more floor space. So when choosing, consider not just the material and appearance, but also the folded dimensions, table height, cleaning requirements and how long you want to use it.