Guide for Highchairs

Is it that time already? They grow up so fast! Congratulations on reaching this exciting new phase of parenting.  

Highchairs are one of the most useful baby equipment you will need on this crazy weaning journey.   

This guide will cover everything you need to know about highchairs; from advantages to disadvantages, when you need a highchair, highchair vs booster seats, and finally, some safety guidelines.  

When Do Babies Use a Highchair?

Babies typically use highchairs from around 6 months, this is when you begin the baby-weaning process to get them eating solid foods. Highchairs usually last until your child reaches 3 to 4 years old.  

Your baby can use a highchair when they can sit up comfortably, with a degree of posture stability.  

If your little one can hold their head up steadily or sit up with little or no support, then they are ready according to the NHS. 

A highchair is used to keep your baby sat in an upright position for maximum safety whilst eating. Eventually, a highchair will be used to teach your baby how to self-feed which leads to their independence. (How exciting!)  

Do You Need One?

Some may recommend other methods, such as lap feeding.

We only recommend this method if you are advised to start weaning your child early, for example, at 4 months old.  

However, lap feeding lacks the necessary support for swallowing solid foods, therefore, your baby will probably only be eating thin purees.  

Below are some advantages and disadvantages of having a highchair:  

Highchairs vs Booster Seats

Many parents wonder what the difference is between a highchair and a booster seat, and which is most effective for their baby. 

A highchair is positioned at a height to make it easier for you to feed your baby.  

A booster seat is a smaller, lighter version of a highchair, typically secured to a chair at the table.  

Here, we look to draw a comparison between the two to make it easier for you to know the difference and pick which is most suited for your family. 

Identify which factors are most important for you, and choose which you’d prefer, a booster seat or a highchair.  

Highchair:

Booster Seat:

What to Look For When Buying a Highchair?

When making your purchase, we advise you to take into consideration the following features. Use these qualities to choose which highchair will be best suited for your lifestyle, home and personal preference.  

Safety Features

Just like car seats, the most important feature is a five-pint harness for young babies to keep them secure and safe whilst in the highchair. Otherwise, be sure there is a secured safety strap that can help prevent injury.  

Be sure to also check that there are limited areas for your babies’ fingers to get pinched or trapped.  

And if your highchair comes with wheels, insure it can lock to prevent the highchair from moving when in use.  

Cleaning

Think about how many removable parts come in your preferred highchair, ideally removable parts help make the cleaning smoother, but you don’t want to take apart the whole highchair just to do a little cleanup.  

You may be able to unhook the tray, remove pads, etc.

Look for highchairs that have removable, washable covers, and very few nooks for food or liquid to get caught in.  

Versatility

Keep in mind, it would be perfect for your preferred highchair to have multiple functions or be able to grow with your child.  

Some highchairs are used for multiple developmental stages and activities such as the Joie 6-in-1 Highchair.  

Look for highchairs that have seat height adjustments or a removable tray, this way you can ensure the right highchair can last over a long period!  

Size

We recommend measuring or knowing roughly how much space you need for the highchair when out, you need to make sure that there is enough space for the base to be sturdy to ensure minimal risk.  

If you are trying to fit a highchair into a small space, we recommend searching for a foldable highchair that can be put away after use to maximise your space.  

How to Use a Highchair Safely?

If your little one is ready for a highchair, keep these few points in mind to keep your baby safe!  

1. Always supervise your little one when seated in the highchair.
2. Do not recline baby while eating.
3. Always strap the baby in with a harness or safety strap.
4. Do not let the baby stand in the chair.
5. Before use, look over the chair and ensure everything is where it’s meant to be.
6. If you have a foldable chair, make sure all locking mechanisms are securely in place.
7. Ensure the base is stable and cannot be tipped over.
8. Keep the highchair at a distance from the table and counters to ensure the baby cannot reach or push against the table. 

To read our disclaimers, please click here.