When it’s time to introduce solids, new foodies need a safe place to eat. Australia’s best high chairs free up parents’ hands and give baby a secure spot to enjoy those first foods (and do crazy stuff with spaghetti.)
Not only are high chairs must-haves for keeping babes contained and upright while they munch, but they’re also a fab way to encourage independent eating while making clean-ups a cinch. From wooden Scandi numbers to clever convertible styles, today’s modern high chairs are designed with convenience and longevity in mind – and they’ve never looked so good.
We list the top features you should consider when choosing high chair and put together a fab list of brands Australian parents recommend.
What to look for when buying a high chair
Safety first: Product Safety Australia outlines that high chairs should be stable, have at least two lockable wheels if on castors and be fitted with a five-point safety harness. They should also be free of sharp edges and any moving parts that could crush or trap little fingers or limbs. (Refer to the Australian standard AS 4684 – 2009 for detailed safety information.)
Easy to clean: Ever watched a six-month-old eat yoghurt? Mess is major when it comes to feeding babies, and an easy-to-clean chair is a godsend for busy parents. It also means you’ll be more inclined to let bub enjoy ‘eating’ puree knowing that clean-up will be a cinch.
Fully adjustable: Styles that are collapsible or have removable legs can be easier to move around the house and travel with, so they’re particularly great for families on the move.
Not to heavy: If it’s likely to be moved around a lot, look out for chairs made with lightweight materials and without excessive bulk.
Longevity of use: After a feeding solution that will see you right through the early years? Many chairs can convert to junior chairs and even adult chairs, extending the life of the item and saving you from making additional purchases.
8 modern high chairs for fuss-free mealtime
To help you find the ideal high chair for mealtimes, we’ve put together a list of top brands to get you started in your search.
Here are nine safe high chairs for baby’s first foods:
Stokke
Stokke Tripp Trapp Chair ($349)
The award-winning Tripp Trapp Chair is designed for every stage of childhood from newborn and beyond. Easy to clean, the classic iconic design has a fully adjustable footrest and seat which holds up to 136kg. The ‘baby set’ and tray sold separately.
Little Lou Baby
Little Lou Baby ‘Switch’ High Chair ($199)
Both a comfy spot for the early days and a robust toddler chair for growing humans, the ‘Switch’ by Little Lou Baby have parents covered for years. Available in two colours, it has a removable tray, easy-clean seat and stable footrest and to support posture.
Leander
Leander Classic ($379.95)
This European ergonomic chair is as striking as it is useful. Made of timber for a sturdy structure that can hold up to 130kg, its clever design lends itself to use throughout the many different stages of growth. Trays, safety bars and cushions are available separately.
Stokke
Stokke Clikk Chair ($369)
Assembled in under a minute (tool-free!), the Clikk Chair is suitable from six months up to three years. It’s a cinch to keep clean thanks to the dishwasher-safe tray and comes with all your mealtime needs, including a five-point safety harness and adjustable footrest.
QToys
QToys Adjustable Hi-Lo Chair ($152.95)
With four height levels and an adjustable footrest and tray, this Montessori-style chair grows with your child from their first meals right up to school age. Fitted with a five-point safety harness, it’s made from eco-friendly plantation timber.
Kidsmill
Kidsmill High Chair Up! ($399)
Available in four contemporary colour schemes, the Kidsmill Up! is as fresh and it is functional. Made of solid beech it’s built to stand up to years of constant use and can be adjusted to adapt to your child’s needs. It has an ergonomic seat and holds up to 90kg.
Childhome
Childhome Evolu 2 ($299.95)
With an easy-clean chair, buckets-loads of style, and all the versatility families need, this award-winner is a standout. It’s designed to serve three stages: infant feeding, table feeding, and play – so it’s going to see kids through years of food-inspired fun.
Love N Care
Love N Care Montana High Chair ($158)
Foldable, padded and fitted with handy wheels for moving around the house, the Montana oozes comfort and convenience. The footrest and backrest are fully adjustable and there are seven different height settings to choose from.
When can a baby sit in a high chair?
Most babies will begin using one when they start eating solids at around six months of age. To be developmentally ready, they should have good head control and be able to sit up unsupported.
When do kids stop using a high chair?
This depends on your child’s size and stage of development. Some children may continue to it right through their toddler years, others may be ready to move on to a booster seat soon after their first birthday. Take into account how much support your child still needs before making the change.
How much does a high chair cost?
In Australia, there are styles to cover every type of budget, starting as low as $25 and ranging up to $800.
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