Buying a high chair: safety features, functions and suitable models for families

For many families, a high chair becomes part of everyday life once their baby can sit unaided. The choice may seem straightforward at first, but a basic wooden high chair, a folding high chair and a high chair that grows with your child differ considerably in how they’re used, cared for and how long they last.

Many poor purchases aren’t down to the price, but to features that don’t suit your needs:

• A wide age range doesn’t automatically mean a suitable fit: the key factors are the seating position, maximum weight limit and whether the chair is approved for use as a baby high chair or a child’s chair.
• A tray doesn’t replace safety features: a high chair with a tray should also have a suitable safety harness, a stable base and components that lock securely into place.
• “Grows with your child” isn’t a standard specification: some models can only be adjusted in height, while others have adjustable seats and footrests or offer several different configurations.
• Ease of cleaning is often overlooked: grooves, fabric covers and fixed trays can make daily cleaning considerably more time-consuming.

The most important things to consider when choosing a high chair

1. Age, ability to sit and weight limit

A baby high chair suitable from 6 months is only appropriate if your child can sit unaided and steadily. So, consider the manufacturer’s age guidance alongside your child’s stage of development. Safety harnesses can’t prevent every poor sitting position and don’t replace supervision.

Check the maximum weight limit. A model with a weight limit of 15 kg is typically designed for use by toddlers. Depending on the model, high chairs that grow with your child may last considerably longer. For example, the roba Nature Up has a stated maximum weight limit of 70 kg, while the CYBEX Click & Fold can support up to 120 kg, depending on its configuration. The relevant age and safety guidance still applies when using any model as a child’s high chair.

2. Safety harness, stability and standards

A high chair with a safety harness should fit your child and fasten securely. Depending on the model, it may have a three-point or five-point harness. Adjust the harness correctly and check it regularly for signs of wear.

A stable design is just as important. Before each use, check that:

• Is the high chair on a firm, level surface?
• Are all screws, locks and connections secure?
• Is a folding high chair fully open and locked into position?
• Can your child push against a table with their feet and move the chair?
• Are the seat and footrest adjusted to suit your child?

The EN 14988 standard is listed for selected products. It covers safety requirements for high chairs. Always follow the specific product labelling, instructions and manufacturer’s guidance.

3. Adjustability, materials and cleaning

A height-adjustable high chair can be adapted to suit tables of different heights. For an ergonomic high chair, the seat and footrest should be adjustable so your child’s feet are supported and they can sit as upright as possible. A footrest is more practical than letting your child’s legs dangle freely.

A wooden high chair has a sturdy construction and can often be used for several years as a child’s or teenager’s chair. Clean painted or coated surfaces with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Fabric covers and faux-leather padding can vary considerably in how easy they are to clean. A removable tray makes daily cleaning easier, but it doesn’t replace cleaning the harness, seat and gaps.

Our picks for different everyday needs and family types

Ideal for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers

roba Folding High Chair, Natural Wood with Tray

Why this product suits this family type: This folding high chair is aimed at families looking for a straightforward solution from around 6 months, with the added benefit of space-saving storage.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The chair folds away for storage. Before use, it must be fully opened and positioned securely.

Key benefits and strengths

Three-point harness, wipe-clean tray, natural wood look and a stated weight limit of up to 70 kg.

Ideal for: Buyers with high quality expectations

cybex CLICK&FOLD 3in1 High Chair Set White

Why this product suits this family type: This model combines a beechwood high chair with adjustable seat and footrest positions, as well as a folding function.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The 3-in-1 design and tool-free adjustments mean you’re less reliant on a fixed seat size.

Key benefits and strengths

Folding mechanism, beechwood frame, tray and a stated weight limit of up to 120 kg when used as a standalone chair.

Ideal for: Specific needs and frequent use

Kikka Boo High Chair 6-in-1 Woody Beige

Why this product suits this family type: The 6-in-1 design is a good option for families who want to use several seating configurations, from a baby high chair to a junior chair.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The weight limits are specified separately for each configuration: up to 15 kg as a high chair and up to 25 kg as a junior chair.

Key benefits and strengths

Five-point harness, double removable tray, footrest and six specified seating configurations.

Ideal for: Families who eat together around the table

hauck Alpha Plus High Chair – Walnut

Why this product suits this family type: This high chair that grows with your child is ideal for households where little ones are likely to sit at the family table for years to come.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The seat and footrest can be adjusted, so the chair isn’t designed solely for the short baby stage.

Key benefits and strengths

European beechwood, adjustable seat and footrest positions, and a stated weight limit of up to 90 kg.

High chair FAQs

When can a baby sit in a high chair?

Many models are designed for use from around 6 months. However, your child must be able to sit unaided and steadily. Follow the manufacturer’s guidance, and supervise your child closely whenever they’re in the chair.

How long can you use a high chair that grows with your child?

It depends on the design, weight limit and approved seating configuration. Some models are only suitable as a high chair up to around 15 kg. Others can later be converted into a child’s or teenager’s chair. Check the guidance for each individual configuration rather than relying solely on general claims about long-term use.

Is a folding high chair a good choice for a small flat?

A folding high chair can be easier to store and take with you when visiting family. Before buying, check its folded dimensions, weight and locking mechanism. The chair must be fully opened and securely locked into position before every use.